DESOPADEC Chairman Highlights Agency’s Crucial Role in Delta’s Socio-Economic Development
By Elohor Foghola
WARRI/Nigeria: Chief John Nani, Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), emphasized the agency’s pivotal role in fostering socio-economic development in Delta State’s oil-bearing communities during a courtesy visit by Participants of Naval Warfare Course 9 (NWC) from the Naval War College Nigeria.
Speaking at DESOPADEC’s corporate headquarters in Warri on March 20, 2025, Chief Nani underscored that DESOPADEC, established by Delta State law, serves as a critical interventionist agency addressing the concerns of the region’s oil-bearing communities. He highlighted the allocation of 50% of the state’s 13% oil derivation funds to DESOPADEC, managed as trustees to meet community needs and prevent unrest.
Representatives from ethnic groups in the mandate areas, including Itsekiri, Ijaw, Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Ika, sit on DESOPADEC’s Board, ensuring community consultation and targeted development initiatives. Chief Nani pointed to the commission’s achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and human capital development, facilitated through initiatives like the DESOPADEC Skills Academy (DSA) and grants for women entrepreneurs.
Moreover, DESOPADEC collaborates with youth from oil communities in security efforts to protect waterways and pipelines, crucial for regional stability. Current projects encompass road construction, school and healthcare facility establishment, housing, electrification, and flood mitigation.
Commodore Chindo Usman Yahaya, representing the Naval War College, highlighted the college’s role in maritime security and its relevance to socio-economic growth in coastal states like Delta. He praised DESOPADEC’s initiatives, noting their alignment with this year’s course theme, “Maritime Security: A Panacea for Viable Socio-Economic Development.”
The visit culminated in Commodore Yahaya presenting Chief John Nani with a commemorative plaque on behalf of the NWC participants, acknowledging DESOPADEC’s pivotal role in Delta State’s development.
Present during the visit were, Chief Oghenekome Okpobor, Chief Favour Izuokumor, Pastor Nicholas Efele, and Chief Julius Egbedi, alongside heads of various departments, reflecting DESOPADEC’s commitment to comprehensive community engagement and sustainable development.
