DESOPADEC Unveils Economic Empowerment Initiatives and Wage Increase
By Elohor Foghola
WARRI/Nigeria: The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has announced the launch of a new economic support programme aimed at empowering women in oil-producing communities and enhancing financial support for participants in the DESOPADEC Skills Academy.
This was revealed by Chief John Nani, Chairman of the DESOPADEC Board, during a press briefing held on Wednesday at the Commission’s headquarters in Warri, Delta State.
Chief Nani detailed that the new economic initiative would provide grants of ₦100,000 each to 50 women from each of the ethnic communities represented within the Commission. The funds are designed to support these women in expanding their local businesses and boosting economic resilience in oil-bearing areas.
“Empowering our women remains a priority for the Commission, and this initiative is a critical step towards fostering community growth and economic stability,” he remarked.
In response to rising inflation and economic pressures, the Commission also resolved to increase the grant allocation for the next cohort of the DESOPADEC Skills Academy (DSA) from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000, alongside essential business start-up kits. Chief Nani emphasised that this upward review would enable graduates of the Skills Academy to establish and sustain their ventures in challenging economic conditions.
“The DSA programme aims to equip our youth with practical skills, but we recognise that many of them lack the resources to establish themselves post-training. Through a rigorous selection process, successful applicants will receive start-up packs and grants to jumpstart their businesses,” he added. The programme, he disclosed, is set to commence in two weeks following consultations with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
In addition to the empowerment schemes, DESOPADEC’s Managing Director and CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor, addressed staff welfare matters, including the recent approval of the new minimum wage. He confirmed that the Commission would begin payment of the revised wage in November, complete with arrears. The board also sanctioned the 2024 promotion exercise, with the merit list expected to be released next week.
On the subject of the Staff Union’s ongoing court case against the Commission, Chief Ochonogor stated that significant progress had been made, with nearly all issues resolved except for the year-end bonus. He assured employees that the matter of the “13th month” salary, which the Governor had previously pledged to address, was under active discussion with the Governor’s office.
With these initiatives, DESOPADEC reiterates its commitment to sustainable development and socio-economic improvement in Delta State’s oil-producing communities, setting the stage for broader economic inclusion and enhanced staff welfare.
