Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has advised Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited, the new owner of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC), to accept both the assets and liabilities of the acquired company.

This, he believes, is essential to resolving the longstanding issues between the company and its host communities.

During a courtesy visit by Oando’s management team to Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Diri emphasized the need for the company to address employment, contractual benefits, security jobs, and environmental pollution concerns.

He encouraged Oando to learn from the experiences of other oil firms operating in the state and to prioritize corporate social responsibility to avoid crises with host communities.

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Governor Diri also stressed the importance of involving qualified indigenes in the company’s management, not just lower-ranking positions. He pledged the state government’s collaboration and support for peaceful oil operations.

In his remarks, Oando’s Managing Director, Dr. Ainojie Irune, expressed hope for a clean start and a healthy working relationship with the Bayelsa government.

Separately, Governor Diri called on the Federal Government to address the flooding menace in the country by building dams and dredging rivers. He emphasized the need for proactive measures beyond warning of impending floods.

Additionally, Governor Diri announced the lifting of the suspension on the Obanema (paramount ruler) of Otuokpoti community in Ogbia Local Government Area, King Azibakayam Wongo, following an appeal by the state’s traditional rulers council chairman.