@article{CRSIJ26000207,
                  author = {Dr. Onyemere, John-Kennedy C.},
                  title = {Legal and Institutional Frameworks of the Host Communities Development Trust in Nigeria under the PIA 2021},
                  journal = {Cosmo Research and Science International Journal},
                  year = {2025},
                  volume = {1},
                  number = {6},
                  pages = {532-552},
                  issn = {3108-1584},
                  url = {https://cosmorsij.com/published/CRSIJ26000207.pdf},
                  abstract = {This article is a broad assessment of the legal and institutional framework of the transformative HCDT that that rekindled hope and promises of sustainable community development through the settlors’ contribution. The article adopted the doctrinal research method to analyse relevant literatures and legal materials on the legal and institutional framework of the HCDTs, roles, responsibilities, challenges and prospects. The article discovered that the industry's activities impact negatively on the environment, health and social lives of the Host communities resulting in displacement sometimes due to gas flaring, oil spills and pollution, etcetera. The article discloses that the legal and institutional framework of the HCDT are essential for the fruitful implementation of the HCDT objectives to avert the setbacks of the defunct gMoU so as to create the desired peaceful co-existence for harmonious exploration, in the community safety and prosperity. The article concludes that a functional and active legal and institutional framework of the HCDT is essential for the industry and the community to achieve its full potentials and significantly contribute to sustainable community development and environmental safety of the oil bearing communities. It recommends, the strengthening of the regulatory frameworks by whittling down the enormous powers of the settlors through amendment, training and re-training of the governing organs of the HCDT, capacity building of the local contractor, transparency and accountability mechanisms that fosters trust and confidence in the system, periodic and transparently publicised audit report of the HCDT accounts by qualified independent auditors, among others.},
                  keywords = {Legal and Institutional Framework, HCDT, Petroleum Industry Act 2021, Petroleum Industry},
                  month = {May}
        }