ABSTRACT

This study entitled: “Applications of Community Relations Strategies in Addressing Host Community Hostility: A Study of Rido Village, Kaduna, Host Community of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited” is carried out to specifically find out the causes of community hostility in the KRPC’s host communities, the measures taken by the host communities to press their demand,  the Company’s current community relations strategies in addressing host community hostilities, the challenges affecting the current community relations programme at the Refinery and the new strategies that the organization can evolve for a more effective and proactive community relations practice in addressing community hostility. To effectively carry out the study, survey research method was adopted to obtain data through the instruments of questionnaire and interview. A total of 300 questionnaires were administered to 30% of Rido Village inhabitants while a total of four (4) key Staff of the KRPC were interviewed. Findings of the study shows that lack of provision of employment opportunities, social amenities and infrastructures are the main causes of community hostilities. It also shows that protest and dialogue are the main channels used by the KRPC host communities to press their demands. The findings also show that the current community relations strategies used by the KRPC in addressing host community hostility include the provision of portable water, electricity, job training, schools, roads as well as support for community social engagements. The Company also responds to oil pollution in a timely and effective manner as well as provide compensation both in cash and kind to effected victims. The outcome of the study also shows that the major challenges affecting the current community relations programmes of the KRPC include poor funding and lack of employment opportunities. Finally, the study shows that the KRPC management has identified Sustainable Community Development (SCD) as a key strategic plan for a more effective and proactive community relations programme. Arising from the findings and conclusions above, it is recommended that organisations desirous of establishing peaceful and harmonious relationship with their host communities should develop a more pragmatic approach towards community development by ensuring a sustainable community development (SCD) and sustainable social development (SSD) projects. They should also adopt and maintain a more effective channel of communication between their organisations and their host communities.