NCDMB denies pressure to relocate from Bayelsa

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has denied the speculations that its under pressure to relocate its headquarters from Yenagoa, Bayelsa State due to incessant protests by the host communities. 

The 17-storey Nigerian Content tower, being the headquarters of the board, which was officially commissioned by President Muhammadu Bahari last year has witnessed a series of protests in recent times.

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The General Manager, Corporate Communication and Zonal Coordination in NCDMB, Engr. Ginah Ginah, in a statement on Monday, said the protests do not constitute sufficient grounds for the board to relocate its headquarters from the state. 

He said that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Development (NOGICD) Act is explicit for where the board’s head office should be situated.

He said: “There has been unwarranted and disruptive protest and disturbances at the 17-storey Nigerian Content Tower, the board’s head office, however, the management of NCDMB recognises that individuals and groups have the right to express their feelings and genuine grievances in civil and responsible manners. 

“The issue does not constitute sufficient grounds to contemplate or yield to any call to relocate the headquarters of the board, considering that the people of Niger Delta region have consistently demanded for oil producing companies to relocate their headquarters to the region. 

“The position of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Development (NOGICD) Act establishing our agency is clear and unambiguous about where our head office should be. 

“Stakeholders are therefore reassured that the board will do everything lawful and expedient within its powers to engender healthy relationships with our host communities and work progressively to ensure that the avoidable spate of disturbances are brought under control.” He said.