…advancing economic empowerment across host communities in line with the objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021
By Sam Ovie
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Published on June 26, 2026
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4 min read
In a landmark demonstration of sustainable host community development, the Port Harcourt Host Communities Development Trust (PH HCDT), in partnership with TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Joint Venture, has empowered 10 beneficiaries with brand-new 2026 model Kaiyi E5 luxury vehicles under its transport empowerment scheme.
The initiative also marked the successful graduation of 150 beneficiaries in the second batch of the Trust’s skills acquisition programme, further advancing economic empowerment across host communities in line with the objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
The beneficiaries received professional training across seven vocational fields, with certificates presented at the graduation ceremony. The distribution of trainees includes:
- Catering – 28
- Pipeline Welding (Charkin Maritime Academy) – 13
- Poultry Farming – 14
- ICT/Cybersecurity – 45
- Hair Dressing – 7
- Fashion Designing – 30
- Fishing – 13
Speaking during the empowerment ceremony, the Chairman of PH HCDT, Chief (Hon.) Sam Soni Ejekwu, PhD, KGS, described the initiative as another milestone in the Trust’s unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of people in its host communities through practical empowerment programmes.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Ejekwu congratulated both the vehicle recipients and graduates of the vocational training, urging them to make productive use of the opportunities provided.
“Today is a day of joy because you are receiving your certificates and new vehicles. These are brand-new 2026 model vehicles. We have also secured a maintenance agreement with the manufacturers, meaning that for the next five years, beneficiaries will not be expected to take the vehicles to roadside mechanics.
“We expect every beneficiary to abide by the rules of engagement so that by this time next year, another set of beneficiaries can enjoy the same opportunity.
“To those who have completed various skills acquisition programmes, we expect you to put your training into practice by establishing businesses. We will monitor your progress, and once we see your commitment and seriousness, we will support you further to ensure your businesses receive the funding required to grow,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of TotalEnergies, Barr. Dornu Kogam, commended the PH HCDT for successfully implementing what he described as first of its kind and an outstanding empowerment programme.
He congratulated both the transport scheme beneficiaries and the graduates of the vocational training, encouraging them to maximise the opportunities provided.
“The objective of this programme is to transform lives and move beneficiaries from poverty to wealth. We are committed to the objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act, which seeks to ensure sustainable economic development for our host communities.
“Empowering people with practical skills is one of the core objectives of the PIA. To those receiving the vehicles, I urge you to use them responsibly.
“I also commend the Port Harcourt Host Communities Development Trust, led by Chief Sam Soni Ejekwu, for introducing this remarkable initiative. It is highly impressive and the first of its kind among Host Community Development Trusts to provide brand-new vehicles under a transport empowerment scheme,” Kogam stated.
He further reaffirmed TotalEnergies’ commitment to remaining a positive development partner in its host communities through investments that promote environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic prosperity in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The empowerment programme received widespread commendation from beneficiaries and community leaders, who expressed appreciation to PH HCDT, TotalEnergies and NNPC for their continued investment in human capital development and economic empowerment.
Earlier, at Charkin Maritime Academy, beneficiaries who completed specialised pipeline welding training were presented with their certificates. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the academy, Sir (Dr.) Charles K. Wami, congratulated the graduates, attributing their success to discipline, dedication and commitment throughout the training.
The Port Harcourt Host Communities Development Trust was established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 to ensure that oil and gas host communities derive sustainable and measurable benefits from petroleum operations. The Trust serves communities within Port Harcourt City and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas, including Mgbuesilaru, Rebisi and Rumuogba.
The latest empowerment programme further reinforces PH HCDT’s commitment to creating lasting economic opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and improving livelihoods through strategic partnerships with TotalEnergies and NNPC.
