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In a bid to ensure a cordial relationship with its hosts, and a conducive environment for investors in the zone, the managing director and chief executive officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Sen. Tijjani Yahaya Kaura, has paid familiarization visits to host communities.
At Ogu community in Rivers State, the OGFZA boss and his team were received at the Chiefs’ Council Secretariat on Saturday by the Amanyanabo of Ogu, HRM, King Nicolas Nimenibo, represented by Chief Adokiye Ochemiebia Chuku, chairman of the Ogu Divisional Council of Chiefs, including representatives of Ogu Youths Congress and the Community Development Committee (CDC).
Addressing the king and members of his council, Sen. Kaura said that the visit was to accord respect and recognition to the highly regarded traditional institution in Ogu community, condole them on the demise of the late king as well as solicit the support of the community in fostering peace and ensuring safety and security of business enterprises operating within the community.
Kaura assured them of consolidating the antecedents of his predecessor, Umana Okon Umana, while explaining that the free zone is an initiative of the Federal Government which relaxes taxation for foreign and domestic investors.
He assured that the Authority would work with the community to ensure progress, adding that the community which is strategic in economic and commercial activities should enjoy the benefits of investments.
He eulogized the community for the peaceful co-existence and secured environment enjoyed in Ogu community having learnt that it is the most peaceful community in the area.
While addressing some misconceptions about oil and gas free zones, the OGFZA boss pointed out that the name ‘Oil and Gas’ does not mean the Authority deals directly with oil and gas matters, but is rather a regulatory body that regulates companies operating in oil and gas sector.
He revealed that revenue had decreased as a result of investors relocating to other zones due to insecurity and lack of activities.
Further urging the paramount ruler to encourage the youths to continually remain peaceful, Kaura noted that Ogu is known to be one the most peaceful communities in Rivers State.
He then assured of his commitment to support, empower and develop the community being one of the host communities in the flagship oil and gas free zone located at Onne, Rivers State.
He appreciated the Ogu community in their continuous support towards the Authority and also solicited their cooperation in the area of peace and security.
The king’s representative, Chief Adokiye Chuku, in his response, emphasized that Ogu community is peaceful and open to investment because it brings development and growth to the community.
Chuku said there has not been violence in the community for over twenty years, as opposed to previous years, because they had adopted peaceful and cordial relationship with investors. He assured the Authority of their support in adding value to business establishments in the community.
