Oriental Energy Resources Limited, OERL, has commissioned and handed over Climate Monitoring and Observation station in the University of Uyo permanent campus.
The project commissioning which took place on Thursday June 6, at the University of Uyo permanent campus, Akwa Ibom State, was in fulfillment of 2022 first quarter OERL intention to provide equipment required to form the nucleus of a Climate Monitoring and Observation Station for the University of Uyo.
Mr. Mustapha Indimi, the Managing Director, Oriental Energy Resources Limited noted that the project which was completed in 2023, is expected to provide practical experience for the various components of climatology and climate change studies in the University; encourage research in climate-related studies, and lay the foundation for the introduction of capacity building programmes.
The Managing Director represented by Head, External Relations Mr. Kazeem Koleoso, averred that the project is a practical demonstration of Oriental Energy’s contribution to the achievements of Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 13 as adopted by the United Nations in September 2015.
“This is very important because every person, in every country, in every continent of the world will be impacted by the adverse effects of climate change. These include flooding, rising sea levels, air pollution, more intense heat waves, waterborne diseases as well as increased hunger and poor nutrition where people cannot grow or find sufficient food.
“Beyond donating the Climate Monitoring and Observation Station to the University of Uyo, Oriental Energy has been taking significant steps to reduce its environmental footprints, especially through our decarbonization journey. We have continued to make progress towards the reduction of emissions from our operations. Our approach to flare reduction is in line with industry standards.
“We are ale taking actions to improve our monitoring of carbon emissions, especially when comes to methane. We are currently reviewing plans to eliminate flaring at our EBok field , while development plans for Okwok field include a zero-flare concept from the start.
“Distinguished guests, since we began operations in Akwa Ibom State, Oriental Energy took a deliberate and long term approach to supporting the communities that host us. In other words, we believe in creating positive sustainable footprints through projects and programmes that improve the quality of life of people in various communities, including this community of staff and students at the University of Uyo.
“The core areas of our social investment interventions in Akwa Ibom State are Community Health, Education and Human Capital Development, Enterprise Development and Support as well as Capacity Building for Sustainable Development. We have several examples of completed projects and programs which attest to our philosophy on social investments in the last few years.
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“Furthermore, in compliance with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021, we have inaugurated the Effiat and Mbo Host Communities Development Trust. This is a community-led initiative established by Oriental Energy to empower and develop Effiat, Ebughu, Enwang, Uda and Udesi communities in Mbo LGA, Akwa Ibom State. It aims to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and socio-economic development through strategic investments and other sustainable development programmes in these communities.”The MD said.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, in his welcome address, appreciated Oriental Energy Resources Limited for making its promise a reality, adding that the project represents a culmination of dedicated efforts and shared vision.
“By what has happened today, Oriental Energy Resources Limited has provided the necessary resources and thus actualize the dream.
“Today, it is no more a vision, but a reality that the phase one of the project has been completed and we are here to commission it. Let me say that Oriental Energy Resources is a long standing partner of University of Uyo.
“This great philanthropic organization had before now supported this University by upgrading facilities at the Department of Petroleum Engineering and we are grateful for that.
“It is hoped that the completion of the first phase of climate monitoring and observation station will not mark the end of benevolence from Oriental Energy Resources to University of Uyo. Therefore, like Oliver Twist, I, on behalf of the University of Uyo Community, appeal to our donor to please direct the commencement of the second phase of the project which is the building and monitoring aspect.
“The phase two of the project, when completed, will provide a shade or accommodation for students while undertaking the practical studies at the station especially during the rainy.”
In her goodwill message, the Chairperson, House of Representatives Committee on Implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility, Hon. (Prof.) Oby Lilian Orogbu commended Oriental Energy Resources Limited for its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), noting that procuring the equipment and ensuring installation at the station, demonstrates the company’s clear understanding of the environmental challenges the people face and a willingness of the company to be part of the solution.
“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time globally. Accurate data is essential for understanding climate patterns, predicting future changes, and developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. This station, in the Committee’s opinion, will provide valuable data for researchers, policy makers, and the public.
“As someone from the academia and the University of Uyo being one of the leading institutions in environmental research, this station will provide students and faculty with access to state-of-the-art equipment and data, enhancing their research capabilities and promoting innovation in climate science.”
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Mr. Uno Etim Uno represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Iquo Abia, extolled OERL for executing such project.
The commissioner urged other oil companies to emulate Oriental Energy by extending similar gesture to Akwa Ibom people.
The highpoint of the occasion was commissioning and handing over of Climate Monitoring and observation Station to the University of Uyo.
Present at the occasion were members of the House of Representatives Committee on Implementation of Social Corporate Responsibility, University Management and management staff of Oriental Energy Resources Limited.
