The Bridges Project is a collaborative `intervention by The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) and Ford Foundation to ensure the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021(PIA) in Nigeria.

The main goal of this project is to support and complement the regulatory proposals of the PIA while ensuring the participation of all stakeholders, particularly the communities affected by the petroleum industry. By fostering inclusivity and equity, the Bridges Project aims to ensure a successful implementation of the PIA. The project activities include operationalizing the HCDTs through Capacity Building Workshops for NGOs and CSOs, Awareness Creation for Key Stakeholders and the setting up and coordination of a Multiple stakeholder platform (MSP). This project is domiciled in five Niger Delta states, which are Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Ondo and Rivers State.

The capacity-building workshop component of this project were held between March and April 2023 and involved 52 participants from 25 NGOs and CSOs across the 5 states. The purpose of these workshops is to build the capacity of NGOs in the region to effectively support the HCDTs and community stakeholders in conducting needs assessments and developing comprehensive development plans, as is required under the provisions of the PIA

The Awareness Creation Workshops of the Bridges Project commenced on 13th June 2023, with the first session in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The primary objective of these workshops is to educate and sensitize key community stakeholders about their roles and responsibilities and expectations under the PIA.  The Awareness Creation workshops will take place in six sessions across five states in the Niger Delta region. Each session will involve the participation of 100 from the established Host Community Development Trusts, key community stakeholders and representatives of settlors.

The third component of the Bridges Project, is the establishment of a Multistakeholder Platform which will ensure the harvesting of ideas on a wide-ranging approach to the implementation of the PIA. The multi-stakeholder platform shall consist of 30 experts and stakeholders representing communities, Settlors, civil society, and government. They aim to maximize the benefits of the PIA for communities by coordinating efforts, utilizing funds effectively, and providing guidance. The platform shall foster collaboration, support HCDT operationalization and facilitate the execution of PIA processes for successful community development.

The project strives to foster inclusivity and equity in the decision-making process by empowering key community stakeholders with knowledge and awareness.