The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) is set to begin the payment of bursary awards to qualified indigent students from its mandate areas, alongside the commissioning of completed projects in affected communities.
This development was revealed during a media briefing held on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Commission’s Head Office in Warri. The Board Chairman, Hon. Barr. John Obukokwho Nani, stated that these were among the key resolutions reached during the latest Board meeting.
“Amongst the resolutions reached today, is the commencement of arrangement to pay bursary award to our indigent students which will be done any moment from now because the application portal is already filled and the money is available for payment,” Nani said.
He explained that the initiative aims to ease the financial burden faced by students from oil-producing communities, especially in today’s tough economic climate. He added that the bursary is part of the Commission’s broader strategy to promote human capital development within the state.
In addition to the bursary, the Board also discussed plans to officially commission a number of completed infrastructure projects that are currently not in use.
“On projects commissioning, there are a lot of our completed projects that are yet to be commissioned. Commissioning these completed projects for use would enlighten people on the nature of work we do as a Commission and it will make people know that we are working,” Nani added.
Managing Director and CEO of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor, also addressed the media, confirming that preparations for disbursement are in their final stages. According to him, the list of qualified students is being finalized and payments will begin by early August.
“Hopefully by early August, the beneficiaries will begin to receive the award of fifty thousand naira (N50,000) each,” Ochonogor announced.
He emphasized that beyond the bursary program, DESOPADEC is actively planning to unveil completed developmental projects across various communities.
“Apart from the bursary award, we are also drawing up a timetable for the commissioning of our various completed projects in the mandate areas to let our people know that we are executing a lot of projects,” he stated.
Addressing financial concerns from contractors, Chief Ochonogor made it clear that DESOPADEC remains committed to settling all project-related payments. “Payment is a continuous process. Those who have not gotten payment will not be left out as payments are made based on project certification,” he assured.
He further disclosed that the Board has resolved to work in unity and maintain a strong internal relationship among Board members and staff. According to him, this will contribute to the smooth running of the Commission and the success of its programs.
“By bringing Management and staff together, we will ensure regular promotion of staff just as we also encourage them on their capacity building to ensure that the staff are putting in their best,” Ochonogor said.
Speaking on the Board’s performance since its inauguration two years ago, he expressed satisfaction with its achievements so far.
“The Board has done creditably well by regularly holding Board meetings as at when due, completing impactful projects in the Commission’s mandate areas and also bringing together Management and staff of the Commission by ensuring regular communication amongst the Heads of Departments and staff,” he concluded.
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The planned bursary payment and project commissioning are expected to strengthen DESOPADEC’s commitment to youth empowerment, education support, and regional development.