Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited has inaugurated six projects in oil spill-impacted communities in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The projects include a 12-classroom block in Agbonchia community, a 200-capacity town hall in Akpajo community, and ICT upgrades, backup power supply, and renovation works at Community Secondary School, Aleto.
Others include the desilting of a four-kilometre drainage system in Aleto, as well as electricity upgrades and the installation of prepaid meters in Aleto and Okerewa communities.
Speaking at the event in Agbonchia on Friday, the company’s Vice President for Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Igo Weli, said the projects were people-centred initiatives.
He explained that they followed engagements with Eleme communities after the June 11, 2023 oil spill on the Nkpoku-Bomu pipeline, previously operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
“After the spill, Renaissance Africa, following its acquisition of SPDC, adopted a collaborative approach, leading to the completion of pipeline repairs and recovery of spilled crude oil,” he said.
Weli added that further clean-up of impacted areas had reached the implementation stage, reflecting progress in environmental remediation efforts.
He noted that the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Aleto community on August 6, 2024, for a one-off goodwill grant to fund development projects.
“The projects demonstrate our commitment to partnerships that directly benefit host communities and improve living standards,” he said, adding that while some projects had been completed, others—particularly electrification—were ongoing.
Weli commended host communities, government, and stakeholders for their support since the company assumed operatorship of the joint venture.
In his remarks, the Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, praised the initiative, noting that it would benefit both current and future generations. Represented by Mr. Charles Barawi, he reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.
The Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, Chief Obarilomate Illor, also commended the company, saying the projects would improve living standards and promote socio-economic growth.
Similarly, the Paramount Ruler of Eleme, King Philip Obele, said the projects signalled improved relations with the company, adding that they strengthened ties between Renaissance and host communities.
He, however, appealed for further support, particularly in providing potable water to communities affected by oil spills, and urged residents to safeguard the projects for lasting impact.
