Oborevwori Urges DESOPADEC Beneficiaries to Unlock Opportunities and Transform Communities
By Elohor Foghola
WARRI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the fifth batch of beneficiaries of the DESOPADEC Skills Academy (DSA) to harness their newly acquired skills to create opportunities, generate employment, and contribute to the transformation of their communities. Addressing the recipients, the governor emphasised that the future lies firmly in their hands.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony of starter packs and ₦500,000 seed funds to the beneficiaries on Wednesday, 27th November 2024, at the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, the governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, highlighted the significance of the programme. He lauded the DSA as a beacon of empowerment designed to equip youths with entrepreneurial skills essential for self-reliance and community development.
“This initiative is a cornerstone of our M.O.R.E. Agenda, which encapsulates our vision for sustained human and infrastructural development,” he stated. “Through projects like the Skills Academy and the provision of starter packs, we are transforming these ideals into tangible benefits for the people of Delta State. This event marks a defining moment in our collective journey towards fulfilling the aspirations of the DESOPADEC mandate areas.”
Governor Oborevwori described the starter packs as more than mere tools, asserting they represent a gateway to self-sufficiency for the beneficiaries. “We are fostering an environment that nurtures the entrepreneurial spirit of our youth, providing them with resources to succeed. By combining skills training with practical tools, we ensure that beneficiaries can immediately apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios,” he added.
The governor commended the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) for its unwavering support in driving this initiative, urging beneficiaries to maximise the resources provided to innovate, grow, and uplift their communities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the DESOPADEC Board, Chief John Nani, advised beneficiaries to utilise the opportunity responsibly, refraining from diverting resources for personal use. “Be ambassadors of Delta State and showcase the governor’s commitment to youth empowerment,” he implored.
Managing Director and CEO of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonoghor, expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his continued support. He noted that this fifth batch of beneficiaries included individuals trained in vocations such as catering, fashion design, hairdressing, software and hardware development, tiling, and electrical repairs. “We are not just providing starter packs but also a seed fund to give them a solid foundation. The second phase of this programme will empower 500 women from the mandate areas with grants,” he announced.
The Executive Director of Social Services at DESOPADEC, Chief Favour Izoukumor, celebrated the achievements of the programme, cautioning beneficiaries against selling the starter packs. “A monitoring team will ensure that the resources are used effectively to fulfil their intended purpose,” he warned.
Business development lectures delivered by Pastor Afolabi Edun and Dr. Charles Akpoki provided beneficiaries with insights on sustaining businesses amidst economic challenges.
Expressing their gratitude, several beneficiaries shared their aspirations. Miss Jessica Deeyaa from Warri South West, a fashion designer, thanked the governor and DESOPADEC for the life-changing support. Similarly, Mr. Toju Iyoemeta, a graphic designer from Warri North, and Mr. Ogaga Adjigbere from Ethiope West, specialising in POP and tiling, praised the programme for enabling them to finally establish their businesses after years of struggle.
The event was graced by traditional rulers, government officials, and other dignitaries, underscoring the significance of the empowerment initiative in shaping the future of Delta State.
