August 14, 2025 – The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has commenced the disbursement of bursary awards to indigent students from its mandate areas in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
This initiative, driven by the leadership of DESOPADEC Board Chairman, Chief John Nani, and MD/CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor, has sparked celebration among beneficiaries.
Speaking to DESOPADEC media crew, the Executive Director, Social Services, Chief Favour Izoukumor, highlighted the commission’s consistent commitment to uplifting communities in oil-producing areas.
“Over the years, DESOPADEC has been in the vanguard of putting smiles on the faces of her people in the oil-bearing communities, spanning from women and youths empowerment to scholarship awards, among others,” she said.
She explained that this initiative aligns with the M.O.R.E agenda of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, stressing that investing in education remains the best legacy for the youth as leaders of tomorrow.
Chief Izoukumor noted that the bursary award process was thorough, with an online application system open to all eligible candidates from host communities. “Ample opportunity was given to all eligible candidates to apply via an online platform after which selection was made, and today they are celebrating and thanking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his magnanimity,” she added.
Providing further details, the Head of Department, Social Services, Mr. Jude Elaye Asiobe, revealed that eight thousand students are beneficiaries of this year’s bursary awards.
According to him, Urhobo students received the largest share with two thousand (2000) beneficiaries, followed by Itsekiri and Ijaw students with one thousand five hundred (1500) each. Ndokwa, Isoko, and Ika nationalities each received one thousand (1000) slots.
He commended the DESOPADEC Board for the timely disbursement of the bursary, emphasizing its impact on the lives of indigent students.
Some recipients expressed gratitude for the support. Miss Fega Obonobor and Miss Agbateyiniro Nina Bright both appreciated DESOPADEC for easing the financial challenges faced by students in the oil-producing communities.
They noted that the bursary will go a long way in alleviating their economic burdens and helping them focus more on their studies.
The bursary initiative stands as a significant step in promoting educational development, community empowerment, and economic relief within the oil-bearing areas of Delta State.