The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) has reaffirmed its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects for the Bonny Kingdom under the Train 7 initiative. This assurance follows the suspension of a planned protest by the Bonny Youth Federation (BYF) on Monday, which aimed to disrupt social and economic activities over alleged neglect by oil multinationals, particularly NLNG.
In a statement by NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, the company reassured stakeholders of its dedication to delivering significant social investments to its host community.
“Our attention has been drawn to concerns regarding the status of NLNG’s Train 7-related CSR projects in Bonny Kingdom and plans for a protest at various work sites. NLNG unequivocally reassures all stakeholders that it remains fully committed to delivering social investments and Nigerian Content benefits to Bonny Kingdom and Rivers State,” the statement read.
NLNG outlined two major CSR initiatives—the Shell Gate-Coal Beach with a Spur to the Perekule Palace Road and the Bonny Vehicular Terminal (BVT). According to the company, these projects have progressed to the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) phase after completing the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) phase. Both are slated for completion by 2027.
“NLNG has a track record of impactful CSR initiatives associated with Trains 1 to 6, which have significantly benefited the Bonny Kingdom. We remain committed to fostering sustainable development and positioning Bonny Island as a model for progress within the region,” Horsfall added.
Tensions had escalated on Sunday night as the BYF mobilized for a protest, threatening to shut down access routes, markets, and offices on the island. The action, which aimed to pressure oil companies into addressing alleged neglect, was met with interventions from the Bonny Local Government Council, Rivers State Government, police, and multinationals, including NLNG.
Notably, the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) dissociated itself from the planned protest, describing it as an invasion of their area. This move was criticized by the BYF and the Bonny Kingdom Development Committee, who accused the FYC of sabotage.
Recognizing the potential for confrontation, concerned authorities and the International Oil Companies (IOCs) intensified efforts to prevent the protest.
NLNG emphasized that the Train 7 project is not only critical for gas development in Nigeria but also a cornerstone for community development in the Niger Delta. “We stand steadfast in our dedication to delivering on promises and fostering enduring progress in Bonny Kingdom,” the company stated.
