HOSTCOM to Govt: 2026 Must Deliver Justice for Host Communities

By Iyojo Ameh

The National President of the Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSTCOM), His Highness Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi, has called on the Federal Government and relevant agencies to urgently resolve long-standing challenges facing host communities, warning that 2026 must not end without tangible results.

Speaking in his New Year message, Dr. Tamaranebi described the year as critical, noting that it marks the final phase of his administration and should be used to secure concrete interventions for oil-producing and resource-hosting communities across the country.

“This is the final year of our administration, and we intend to use it to press firmly but responsibly for solutions to the challenges confronting our people,” he said. “Host communities have shown patience, resilience and commitment to peace. It is time for government to reciprocate with action.”

He lamented that despite years of engagement and dialogue, many host communities continue to suffer from poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, unemployment and unfulfilled development promises.
Dr. Tamaranebi urged the Federal Government, state governments and regulatory agencies to move beyond assurances and implement people-centred projects that would improve livelihoods and restore trust.

“Our struggles have been peaceful and progressive, but they must yield results. This year must deliver visible impact and lasting solutions,” he stressed.

He disclosed that HOSTCOM would intensify engagements with government agencies, oil companies and development partners in the coming months, while maintaining its commitment to dialogue, cooperation and national stability.

The HOSTCOM president also thanked members for their unity and support throughout his tenure, describing internal solidarity as key to sustaining advocacy for host communities.

“This final year is not a retreat. It is a push for results,” he said.
Dr. Tamaranebi reaffirmed HOSTCOM’s commitment to peaceful advocacy and urged members to remain law-abiding while demanding accountability from all stakeholders.

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HOSTCOM represents communities hosting oil and gas operations and other extractive activities across Nigeria. For decades, these communities have raised concerns over environmental damage, marginalisation, unemployment and inadequate development, issues that have often fuelled tensions in the Niger Delta and other resource-rich areas.

As Nigeria enters 2026, Dr. Tamaranebi expressed optimism that meaningful progress could still be achieved before the end of his tenure, calling on authorities to seize the moment to rebuild trust and leave a positive legacy.

“Government must listen, engage and act,” he said.