DESOPADEC Executive Director Emphasizes Importance of SMEs in Driving Economic Growth
By Elohor Foghola
WARRI/Nigeria: The Executive Director of Projects, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Ebenezer Okorodudu, has underscored the vital role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in fostering economic growth, particularly in oil-producing communities.
Chief Okorodudu made this statement during a courtesy visit by the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Delta Chapter, on February 4, 2025, at the DESOPADEC corporate office in Warri.
He commended the Chairperson of NASME Delta Chapter, Lady Judith Nwachukwu, and her members for their visit, acknowledging the contributions of SMEs to Nigeria’s economy. Drawing on his experience as a former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Okorodudu remarked, “SMEs are the engine room of economic growth in any society that aspires to prosper. They contribute significantly to GDP growth and are essential in generating employment, particularly among the youth, creating grassroots economic prosperity, and reducing unrest and social vices.”
The DESOPADEC Executive Director emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to create an enabling environment for SMEs to thrive, noting that the success of SMEs would contribute to the progress of the entire nation. He also urged NASME to direct their request to the Managing Director of DESOPADEC for further support.
Earlier, Lady Judith Nwachukwu, while congratulating Dr. Okorodudu on his appointment, expressed the association’s desire to strengthen its partnership with DESOPADEC in supporting SMEs in the state. She also appealed for the Executive Director’s support in hosting the annual International Women’s Day event scheduled for March 8, 2025.
