The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) and Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc. have signed a ₦1.2 billion partnership agreement to drive peacebuilding, livelihood enhancement, and inclusive development in host communities across Edo State.
The agreement, anchored on a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024 and reinforced through a new Project-Specific Agreement for 2026, aims to foster sustainable corporate social responsibility and strengthen community resilience.
Managing Director of Okomu Oil Palm Company, Dr. Graham Hefer, said the initiative reaffirms the company’s commitment to peace, partnership, and measurable impact. “Sustainable business must go hand in hand with shared prosperity,” he said.
The programme will focus on five thematic areas from peacebuilding and conflict prevention, market systems development, access to finance to renewable energy deployment, and youth skills empowerment.
Under the plan, over 3,000 smallholder farmers will be supported with improved agricultural inputs, while a pilot solar mini-grid will energise schools and health centres. A Technical and Vocational Training Centre will also train 60 young people in tailoring and protective gear production.
Executive Director of PIND Foundation, Mr. Sam Ogbemi Daibo, described the collaboration as “development through shared value,” adding that the initiative will be jointly managed by a steering committee to ensure transparency, accountability, and gender inclusion.
“This partnership demonstrates how private enterprise and social responsibility can reinforce peace and prosperity,” Daibo said.
