Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has urged oil companies and host communities to adopt a dialogue approach rather than confrontational tactics to resolve disputes.
Governor Oborevwori made this call during a courtesy visit from the management of Chevron Nigeria Limited, led by Engr. Esimaje Brikins, Senior Corporate Affairs Advisor for Chevron International, Exploration and Production in the Africa Region, at Government House, Asaba.
While congratulating Mr. Brikins on his new appointment, the Governor emphasized the importance of understanding the operations and relationships with host communities and stakeholders. He warned that he would not tolerate the shutting down of oil facilities by host communities and similarly would not permit oil companies to oppress the local population.
He stated: “I believe you must understand the terrain in which you operate. Chevron has been managing this area for a long time; it didn’t begin today. Some companies didn’t survive and have left, but Chevron is still here, operating offshore and onshore, while effectively managing relationships with the people.”
“When operating in a region like Delta State, a lack of knowledge about the local population can jeopardize your success. Therefore, my advice to your successor is to study the history of Chevron here, as it is challenging to manage relationships with the local population, particularly with the various ethnic nationalities.”
Governor Oborevwori continued, “Anytime you require our intervention, we will assist. I will not permit any community to shut down oil stations—I will not stand for it. At the same time, I will not allow oil companies to exploit our people. They must adhere to the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) because compliance benefits everyone involved.”
He emphasized that successful engagement with the local community and awareness-building are crucial. “When a new government comes into a community, they want to see how you can impress them. There are standard practices, and misunderstandings about your operations can lead to conflicts. Dialogue is always better than confrontation. I am pleased to see your visit today, as it indicates that we can work together with mutual understanding.”
Earlier, Brikins praised Governor Oborevwori for his leadership, commitment to community engagement, and efforts to stabilize the region, all of which have positively impacted Chevron’s operations and the economy of both the state and the country.
He noted that Delta State has been home to Chevron for over 50 years and expressed gratitude for the support given to Chevron and other oil companies in the state. He reiterated Chevron’s long-standing commitment to Delta State, highlighting ongoing projects such as a $1.4 billion drilling program financed by banks.
Brikins emphasized Chevron’s impact on local communities through job creation and contracting opportunities, as well as the company’s intention to strengthen relationships. “Operating in the oil industry is not easy, and I can assure you that the Governor of Delta State has played a vital role in helping us sustain our operations here.”
He added, “Chevron is one of the few international oil companies that continue to maintain operations onshore and in the near offshore area, as well as in deep water. Our commitment to this region means we rely on the support of all stakeholders. The Governor has been a strong ally in this effort.”
Brikins pointed out, “While our operations generate significant revenue for the state through taxes, the priority is ensuring peace and stability, as it fosters growth and expansion opportunities. The support we receive from the Delta State government contributes significantly to this.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Deputy Governor and others for their continued support, stating, “With your backing, we will keep pursuing growth opportunities. Our current drilling program, in which we are investing $1.4 billion, is one of the few active oil and gas projects in the country. We must come together to ensure that once this program is completed, we can undertake further initiatives that will benefit the youth and local contractors in our communities. Our presence here yields substantial returns for the community.”
