The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Heirs Energies, under the NNPC/Heirs Energies Joint Venture for OML 17, have commenced a large-scale medical outreach programme across host communities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The initiative, spearheaded by the OML 17 Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT), is being executed across 15 community centres, targeting an estimated 4,500 beneficiaries with free access to essential healthcare services.
Benefiting communities include Umuechem, Igwuruta, Mgbodo-Alu, Eneka, Rumukurishi, Oyigbo, Iriebe, Umuebulu, Umuokwa, Odagwa, Egwi, Elelewon, Ozuoba, and Rumuigbo. The outreach features comprehensive services such as general medical consultations, eye care, dental treatment, minor surgeries, wellness education, and health counselling—making it one of the most robust interventions in the region in recent times.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the NNPC/Heirs Energies OML 17 HCDT, His Royal Majesty King Samuel Amaechi, said the initiative underscores the Joint Venture’s commitment to sustainable development, health equity, and corporate responsibility.
“This medical outreach is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the well-being of our people. We recognise that no community can thrive without access to basic healthcare. Through this initiative, the HCDT is not only meeting immediate health needs but also reaffirming its role as a responsive and compassionate development institution,” King Amaechi stated.
He praised the collaborative support from the NNPC and Heirs Energies, acknowledging their contributions in turning a vision of health justice into reality. According to him, the outreach not only provides short-term relief but also builds the foundation for long-term community resilience.
Medical personnel involved in the outreach include a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, optometrists, dentists, and surgeons—deployed to the respective centres with necessary medical equipment and logistics.
The outreach programme aligns with the Nigerian Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which mandates Host Community Development Trusts to undertake projects that promote socio-economic development in oil-producing areas. Furthermore, the intervention supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality).
Speaking on the long-term vision, a representative of Heirs Energies reiterated the JV’s dedication to social investments beyond oil exploration. “We are not just drilling for resources; we are investing in human lives. Health is a cornerstone of any productive society, and our responsibility is to ensure our host communities thrive,” the spokesperson noted.
Residents across the participating communities have lauded the initiative, with many describing it as timely amid the rising cost of healthcare services in the country. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for receiving free eyeglasses, dental extractions, malaria treatments, and general health screenings.
Mrs. Esther Iroro, a resident of Rumukurishi, said, “I haven’t seen a doctor in over three years. Today, I not only got checked, but I also received free drugs and counselling on how to manage my blood pressure. God bless them.”
This health outreach by the NNPCL/Heirs Energies JV sets a new benchmark for oil companies operating in the Niger Delta, showing that corporate social responsibility must be proactive, impactful, and inclusive.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with poor health infrastructure and accessibility challenges—particularly in rural and oil-bearing regions—such initiatives are increasingly essential in complementing government efforts and addressing long-standing disparities in healthcare delivery.
The OML 17 HCDT said it is planning further outreach programmes, including capacity-building workshops for local health workers, supply of medical equipment to community clinics, and support for maternal and child health services.
In a region long associated with environmental and health challenges due to oil exploration, this initiative marks a transformative step toward balancing resource extraction with community development and human capital investment.