The Owaza community, a major host community of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, confers a chieftaincy title on Dr. Osahon Okunbo, Project Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), in recognition of his contributions to peace, development and stability in the oil-producing region.
Dr. Okunbo receives the title Oha-Mere-Dike I, meaning “The One Who Deserves Honour,” during a traditional coronation ceremony held at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Eze (Amb.) Obioma I. Nworgu, the Eze Oha I of Etitioha-Owaza Oil and Gas Kingdom. The event forms part of activities marking the monarch’s birthday.
The ceremony attracts dignitaries from across the Niger Delta, highlighting the significance of the honour and the strengthening relationship between PINL and its host communities.
Although unavoidably absent, Dr. Okunbo is represented by Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholder Engagement at PINL. Speakers at the ceremony commend Okunbo’s leadership in reducing pipeline vandalism and deepening trust between oil industry operators and host communities.
Under his leadership, PINL implements empowerment programmes across 215 host communities, including youth and women empowerment initiatives, skills acquisition schemes, scholarships for over 1,000 students, and employment opportunities for local residents. The company’s impact in the Imo River Oil Field (OML 11) area is cited as a major factor behind the honour.
Community leaders also note that the interventions contribute to improved environmental protection, sustained peace and operational stability across oil-bearing communities.
In addition to the chieftaincy title, Dr. Okunbo receives an award recognising him as “a leader chosen by his people,” while PINL presents an award to HRM Eze Nworgu in appreciation of his role in promoting peace and development.
The conferment, held on December 13, 2025, features traditional rites and cultural displays, with calls for continued collaboration between host communities, traditional institutions and industry stakeholders to sustain stability in Nigeria’s oil sector.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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