The Host Communities of Nigeria producing oil and gas, HOSCON, Kogi and Northern State Areas, has hailed Chief (Dr) Wellington O. Okirika CON, for his advocacy efforts and pursuit of justice towards the liberation of oil and gas bearing communities in the country.

The HOSCON, Kogi State chapter, made the remark during a congratulatory visit as led by His Eminence, Bishop Gabriel S. Ojoka, to Chief Okirika, popularly known as Mr. 13% Derivation Fund, at his Effurun residence in Delta State, on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

In his presentation on behalf of the chapter, Bishop Ojoka, who congratulated Chief Okirika on his 83rd birthday, stated that the celebrant's efforts which yielded 13% derivation fund liberated many men and women of oil producing areas.

The chapter recalled the significant role played by the late Kogite, Architect Gabriel Yakubu Aduku, whose 25% recommendation during the 1994/95 National Conference paved the way for the current 13% derivation fund.

Bishop Ojoka also appealed to Chief Okirika for inclusion of the chapter in his programs and activities, pledging its commitment and support.

The presentation reads: "We, the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas, HOSCON, Kogi State Chapter, extend our warmest felicitations to you, Chief Wellington O. Okirika CON, on your 83rd birthday, celebrated on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

"As the founding father of the oil and gas bearing communities program, your dedication to the liberation of men and the pursuit of justice for oil-bearing communities has been truly inspiring.

"We honor the memory of the late architect, Gabriel Yakubu Aduku, whose contribution and truthfulness in his community recommendation for 25% that paved the way and support for your advocacy that falls on the present status of 13% oil and gas derivation. With your permission, sir, we would like to rise for a minute's silence in honor of the late architect's Chief Gabriel Yakubu Aduku.

"Chief sir, in recent times we observe that your speaking is better described in the words or Proverbs of King Solomon of the sacred writings. For this, we kindly advise, anyone found around you, per time, to curiously pen down your expression, both in deed and action, as the need for its importance and use will arise in all distant times.

"Your nickname as Mr. 13% is a testament to your tireless effort, just as you expressed that the late Chief Aduku be affectionately remembered as Baba 13% in your advocacy.

"We recognize the invaluable contributions of Kogi oil bearing communities, and we are pleased that you place His Eminence, Bishop H. E. B. Gabriel S. Ojoka, who filled the missing link at a time when vacuum existed between you and Chief Aduku, and now we brought him in a similar status for the late architect Aduku, in recognition of his dedication to the 13% derivation of Ojoka, on Kogi and Northern State area. We kindly request, sir, a backup letter to formalize this recognition.

"As we move forward, we humbly appeal to you for our inclusion in your future programs and activities. We promise to stand by you in your pursuit of a noble cause. 

"In conclusion, we appreciate your outstanding leadership and trustworthiness. We wish you the best blessings from above, good health, peace, and many more years in Christ Jesus. Amen."

Chief Okirika, who was delighted at the visit of Kogi and Northern State Areas, thanked them for the honour given his personality and promised to look into their request for inclusion in the continuous agitation for derivation to host communities.

Other highlights was a presentation of two copies of the recently launched Chief Okirika's biography to the HOSCON Kogi and Northern States Areas chapter and photo session.

View photos on PENGlobal Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15bHr3D1ky/

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