The National Association of Itsekiri Graduates (NAIG) has leveled serious allegations against Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), accusing the oil and gas giant of marginalization in its recent recruitment exercise. The group has issued a stern warning of a potential showdown if their demands are not met.
In a statement jointly signed by NAIG’s President, Mino Esiategiwa, and Secretary, Ben Eyitemi Eburajolo, the association alleged that Chevron employed approximately 300 individuals “secretly,” in blatant disregard of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010. The statement, made available to journalists in Warri, Delta State, highlighted the absence of any publication of the recruitment in national dailies, on Chevron’s official website, or through a third party.
NAIG lamented what they perceive as Chevron’s longstanding marginalization of the Itsekiri nation, spanning over three decades. They pointed out disparities in employment opportunities, human capacity building, and corporate social responsibilities, citing the absence of essential infrastructure such as medical centers, electricity, and portable drinking water in Itsekiri host communities.
Demanding immediate action, NAIG insisted that those recently engaged by CNL be demobilized and replaced by Itsekiris, constituting at least 60% of the alleged vacancies. They further threatened a potential confrontation if individuals from other ethnicities were not removed from the positions.
