Y TODAVOL. 3 NO. 1 IN OCTOBER, 2015 ACTION OKOWA TASKS NEW DESOPADEC BOARD HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE FOR OIL PRODUCING COMMUNITIES ON SOUND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE Swears-in New Board Members Stories By Ibru Nejuvie he new Delta State Oil needs for implementation as there P r o d u c i n g A r e a s is no room for incompetence and TDevelopment Commission greed and called for discipline and (DESOPADEC) Governing Board has sacrifice. been charged to be sound in Dr Okowa also charged the Board to corporate governance and provide involve host communities in greater accountability and decision making processes, adding transparency. that they should embrace the The Executive Governor of Delta bottom-top approach as this is a State, Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa new beginning. stated this in Asaba while Swearing in the members in two inaugurating the third Board amidst batches, the Governor warned a huge crowd of family members, them against indolence and in- Completed Ovie of Uvwie Palace at Effurun, Uvwie LGA Completed Water Project at friends and well wishers. fighting, noting that he would not Ekuigbo-Iyede, Isoko North LGA According to the Governor, the hesitate to sanction any erring Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa Board should draw up project member of the Board. Executive Governor, Delta State Contd. on Page 6 I’m Aware Of Problems My Mission Is To Lift People -Hon. Ebosa Facing Our People Out Of...75% Poverty, Poverty Inde Saysx is Criminal. Makinde ...Era Of Awarding Contracts Without Funds Is Over Government Chairman, he is he Managing Director of aware of the problems facing the DESOPADEC, Chief William people of the mandate areas. TMakinde has stated that his Purchased Dredging Machine at Sets of Transformers Speaking to DESOPADEC Today in mission and vision for the Commission Koko, Warri North LGA For Isoko Nation Warri, Hon Ebosa said his mission is to lift people out of poverty through is to develop the oil producing infrastructural and human capital areas, noting that he is not new to development. Contd. on Page 6 the terrain and knows the formula to deploy to see that communities benefit from the Commission Hon. Godwin Ebosa According to the Chairman, “ We Board Chairman will send the message to our h e C h a i r m a n o f t h e stakeholders through our various G o ve r n i n g B o a rd O f representatives to see how they Completed Recreation Centre at DESOPADEC, Hon Godwin will welcome whatever projects Supplied 1000KVA Generator at Otor-Igho, Isoko North LGA T we are bringing to them instead of Ebosa has said that as former local Oporoza Community, Warri South West LGA Contd. on Page 6 Chief William Makinde Managing Director HEALTH TIPS What You Need To Know About Prostate Cancer

n recent times, the spread of pelvic or abdominal pain. Other (reduce) trial. These studies cancer has been a topical issue symptoms may include weight loss, demonstrate that both Finasteride Iand has generated a lot of bone pain and lower extremity and dutastride (Propecia and concern in the society. Cancer is the swelling. Avodart). When used in men name given to a collection of related The common problems of prostate between 5o and 75 years of age, diseases. Although there are many a r e B P H ( B e n i g n P r o s t a t e reduced the incidence of prostate kinds of cancer, they all start because Hyperplasia), acute and chronic cancer by 28% and 23% respectively abnormal cells grow out of control. bacterial prostatitis (non-bacterial). as compared to similar men taking Our focus on this edition shall be on Prostate cancer is diagnosed by placebo. prostate cancer. tissue biopsy, and initial studies may The reduction in the overall is proudly associated with Prostate cancer is a disease which include a rectal examination incidence of prostate cancer was only affects men. This cancer begins ultrasound and PSA (prostate significant. The use of these drugs in the gland cell of the the prostate, which is only found in the male reproductive system. It reduces mostly the semen that carries sperm. S.M.A.R.T The walnut-sized gland is located beneath the bladder and surrounds the upper part AGENDA of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. Prostate cancer is common of the with African men who are over 50yrs of age and in men who eat fatty food or have a history of prostate cancer. OKOWA There are two main types of prostate cancer which are; A d e n o c r a r c i n o m a : A D M I N I S T R A T I O N which is a slow growing form of cancer, and when found early, there is a good chance of curing it. The other type is S Strategic Wealth Creation And Provision Of Job small cell Carciroma: This type of Diagram Showing Growth Of Prostate For All Deltans Cancer In The Human Body cancer is made of small round cells. It is a very aggressive specific antigen) levels. and their approval for prevention has form of prostate cancer that does not M Meaningful Peace Building Platforms Aimed At Treatment for prostate cancer may been shown to come in part because lead to a change in prostate specific include surveillance, surgery, of the lingering concern over the Political And Social Harmony antigen (PSA). radiation therapy, and hormone high grade prostate cancer risk. The regular symptoms of this disease therapy. Prostate cancer is a However, it is worthy of note that include urinary problems (little or no common disease today. The ideal men approaching the age of 50 years A Agricultural Reforms And Accelerated Industrialization urine output), difficulty in starting or approach is to prevent men from should always go for regular stopping the urine stream, frequent, getting prostate cancer. This can be checkups and test to know if there is urination, dribbling, painful or achieved by the two clinical trials the need for treatment. R Relevant Health And Education Policies burning sensation during urination, referred to as the prostate cancer erectile dysfunction, and painful Culled from the Internet by prevention trial (PCPT) and the ejaculation, blood in urine or semen, EGARA FRANCISCA .E T Transformed Environment Through Urban Renewal subsequent reduction events Finance Dep the -- and r Boar needs. s c p p l the I i oom t o s l On ON THEIREXPECT a t i m r t e g the e -- St and be s F y e

n empow h y m tr x d ouths. Boar Igho DESOP o i a b enik h p t n a u f use f y s major e t g f or a should Mor n d

egiz mee c and

mee i d v , Timoth t s in ir o t e, e a i q f u s scholar e f e or a t ermen eo t, e Collins t u

t. s i r t r o ting

hos o one

a ound c the on t r v the n m h r e t i er giv n e o s cr v i e t how

enue

, a Boar is their c

ea y Henr ship t n e b y ommunities. t h t the n f f o h h earnings u or or holes t o i e e e a g y t l l the d

e

driv

D should s

Dep A seriously -- w t Ok pr r m w r DE y M . amific E e h

(T T Ag d ork i e omised s and r t e T ow SOP o ADEC WORKERSSPEAK ansport m t h S r

f h t. r amah, ansport Division) or

and er's u d i B e O a. n t

c ADE place y a o h the squar e t

tions

P a u e . I & aspir w l

r r s b A also e d C h Marit

Commission y n e t elf Division d

h o r t x S i D Go e

ound

o e p t u ar u a n A o i as

i e be l E tions pegs n p s e v e d

c N

a ernor

xpect p

TIONS FROMTHENEWBO t C t D v fully a a l w l a f pegs a er i i D t OPINION n o c k e as l l i T an s C o e e y y of s in r l o

O

Admin some the -- s Insur N implemen f cr incr I t D Akio a o ea a -- In should beginning s T f S handle

f ease h A t e 30% r tion Idama, t t ance o xpect i ernal and a y Y y

o u ear & f

amen, l f n

d in P Supplies cut

of 30% God. he

be a t s a p a Audit s A the the b back. Scheme l of t Juliana tion r Boar e c a c r

o s G e and arried arried

fice f Glady cut H f m Ther v Boar g t issue salaries, er E e i Unit o d v of a Dep sal space e a t in end should e i n f d s along l o out the

f t our 22 should f t. or n t of of o go h , , of

o salaries. hos be the on s o a a p I (Main -- in w d each t t r f Amiw r a

t f ork r all tw o i f e be e t Boar

c t p f merit c m h n e a c a their ommunic een e in e d t ommunities. s r with c o x enance Division) r y

, s a er k e

p ear t d , positions n a a v

i e The o p ge t o re er the activities. c

c , U l and t . n the a t o o a sal s b c

The

s m . Es a e w

t w look a at s c m f h f of ork t o tion ear bridging k o i ther a e

e l t f s r f o

based n h t f t the t er g a h a t sta n

of in f

and

g e b s e f i ap

o t o t l w ff o e s f f ARD

. C O N T E N T Health Tip Opinion Ne Special In Ne F Phot Special In Ne F F Ne DE E ea ea eedback dit SOP w w w w tur tur orial s s s s osc D es es ADE E 15 9 6 ope S t t 22 14 21 O s er er C Go 8 7 P vie vie 23 12 3 18 A w w v D 15 erning Boar E 19 10 C 13 T O 20 D 1 1 A d Y

P 5 A G E 03 The New NEWS Makinde Pledges Not To Disappoint EDITORIAL *Oghara Youths Commend Okowa On Appointment he Managing Director, Delta State He commended the state Governor, Dr commended for the choice of Makinde n August 28, 2015, the Amitaye, Hon Ovie Oghoore, Chief the new DESOPADEC Board will do Oil Producing Areas Development Ifeanyi Okowa, for finding him worthy in as DESOPADEC Managing Director. Governor of Delta State, Thomas Ereyitomi, Mr Nnamdi Ezechi, better than their predecessors in office. Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief the task of rebuilding DESOPADEC, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Hon Fidelis Chukwuwike Oputa and This is a further charge for them not to T O William Makinde, has promised to use promising to deliver the dividend behind Oghara Elite Youths President , Comr. Okowa inaugurated the third Board of Chief Favour Izoukumor. betray the confidence reposed in them his vast experience over the years to the creation of the Commission. Edafe Umukoro, who spoke to newsmen DESOPADEC since its creation in 2006 With the new law restructuring the by improving on Governor Okowa's ta c k l e t h e i s s u e o f u n d e r - explained that the choice of Chief with a clear mandate to develop the oil Commission, DESOPADEC will no longer S.M.A.R.T Agenda of prosperity for all d eve l o p m e nt o f o i l - b e a r i n g Makinde to head DESOPADEC is like a producing areas of the state. have an Executive Chairman but a Deltans. communities in the state, assuring square peg in a square hole, judging Inaugurating the 14-man Board at the Managing Director and four Executive It is also instructive that staff of the never to betray the trust reposed in from his antecedents over the years. Unity Hall, Asaba, the Governor tasked Directors in charge of the day-to-day Commission should understand the him. The Youths, who described the former them to be sound in corporate administration of the Commission. new direction of the remodelled Chief Makinde, while fielding E xe c u t i ve D i re c to r o f DA A R governance and provide greater Determined to instil greater DESOPADEC and appreciate the whole questions from journalists in Asaba, Communications as a technocrat who accountability and transparency. He transparency and responsiveness, the essence of the new structure. We must explained that DESOPADEC under his will not use the monies meant for advised the Board to draw up projects Chairman and eight other members do away with the old mindset and tenure, would address all the d e v e l o p m e n t o f o i l - b e a r i n g using the bottom-top approach for representing the mandate areas will embrace the changes that are coming yearnings and aspirations of the oil- communities to enrich his pockets and implementation as there is no room for operate on part-time as against the as it is no longer business as usual. bearing communities. family, noted that his antecedents in incompetence and greed and called for former. DESOPADEC Today congratulates the The MD maintained that oil-bearing his previous positions speak volumes. greater discipline and sacrifice from As a special interventionist agency, it is new Board Members as they settle communities in the state would He stressed that with Chief Makinde them. imperative to subject the Commission down to write their names in gold, experience massive people-oriented as the arrow head in the Commission, Those inaugurated as members of the and its activities to periodic reviews and avoiding the mistakes of the past and projects geared towards the funds are in safe hands. Board include : Hon.Godwin Ebosa ensure that the key objectives are charting a new course of sustainable S.M.A.R.T Agenda of the state (Chairman), Chief William Makinde realised even in the face of dwindling development that will transform the government. The group maintained that Okowa (Managing Director), as well as four resources. It is also expected that mandate areas. In this wise, all He promised that under his watch, Chief William Makinde m e a n t w e l l f o r o i l - b e a r i n g Executive Directors -Chief Askia Ogieh, meaningful and impactful projects stakeholders must be carried along in the Commission would not tolerate Managing Director communities in restructuring the Hon Chris Ochor Ochor, Mr Philip should be embarked upon as against the onerous task of bringing any shoddy projects executed by Commission's Board, appealing to all Gbasin, and Engr Victor Oritsetimeyin wanting to score cheap political points development to the door steps of the contractors, noting that the Board While soliciting for co-operation from all aggrieved persons, groups and ethic Wood. and to avoid duplication of projects and people and communities who have would employ strict measures to stakeholders of the Commission to nationalities to sheathe their swords and monitor the projects. He expressed j o i n h a n d s w i t h t h e O k o w a Others inaugurated as representatives waste of funds of the Commission. suffered untold hardship and neglect enable him deliver the mandate, determination to transform the oil- administration. of oil producing areas are Chief Amos Considering the pedigree of the Board over the years. Makinde assured all of inclusiveness in bearing communities, to meet the Itiwhe, Chief Pius Ovbije, Mr Jonathan Members, there is the conviction that CONGRATULATIONS! the Board. mandate of the Commission. M e a n w h i l e , O ko w a h a s b e e n DESOPADEC TODAY is a monthly newsletter published by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas EditorialT eam Development Commission. LG Boss Lauds Okowa On Ebosa's Appointment EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: ADOWEI RUTHERFORD Corporate Head Office: 25, Warri-Sapele Road, arri North Local Government Area Chairman, Mr. Opp. Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS), Warri, Delta State. EDITOR: IBRU NEJUVIE Francis Maku - Eyituoyor has lauded Governor ASSOCIATE EDITORS: LARRY T. MOGBEYITEREN, JP Ifeanyi Okowa over the appointment of Mr. VINCENT OYIBODE W We welcome letters (feedbacks) and features on a Godwin Ebosa as Chairman of Delta State Oil Producing Areas BONIFACE NZESI regular basis from readers but letters for Development Commission, DESOPADEC. publication must bear full names and address of the TED ATAGBAZA writer whether sent by post, fax or e-mail. We ASSISTANT EDITORS: EBIAKPO OBAYENDO He also commended the governor for his commitment to cannot publish letters that do not bear the full EVELYN OBIBI raise the bar of development for the people as the state names and addresses of the writers. You may also CORRESPONDENTS: FRANCISCA EGARA marks the 24th anniversary of its creation. wish to keep your letters short and straight to the MICAH MARTHA Maku-Eyituoyor said that as a former council Chairman with point. ESE ODJUVWEDERHIE JAMES a radiant antecedence in the private sector, Ebosa has the AKORO OVIE experience of managing financial, human and material For all enquiries, please contact the Editor on SAILOS-DORTON TOSANWUMI resources efficiently, attributes, which he will bring to bear in

08031371419 and 08056442531. Contact e UANZEKIN IJEME B. administering the affairs of the Commission to the

mail:[email protected] SHARON ABIDE satisfaction of oil bearing communities and the state government. Hon. Godwin Ebosa SANDRA OGWU Board Chairman EKRIKA EBITIMI JUDITH

PRECIOUS OKITIKPI D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 04 WISDOM IGELIGE 21

AKPEVWE ONORUVIE

SECRETARY: BETHEL CHUKWUMA

ETOR DORA

PHOTOGRAPHER: MESHACK OKE SPECIAL INTERVIEW the society. QUESTION: What legacy do you people to feel your presence in DESOPADEC GOVERNING BOARD QUESTION: Sir, you have met with want to leave behind? DESOPADEC? the Heads of Departments in your RESPONSE: I wish to see R ESPONSE: First of all, I will directorate. What is your D E S O PA D E C b e c o m e o n e appraise and review their assessment on what you saw? government parastatal that will be expectations, look at their needs RESPONSE: We have seen the different from the rest because we and marry that against demands reports. It shows that the previous have people from different and wants. Where I worked before Board has done a lot of work but p ro fe s s i o n a l / m a n a g e m e n t now (Chevron), there is a there is so much room for backgrounds. So we will leave this community in the Eastern part of improvement. This is a new setup, place (DESOPADEC) far better than Nigeria where we built a post where you have a management we met it. There are structures on office. We asked them why they team. The management team will ground. So if you come in from needed a post office and they said be on ground on daily basis. We anywhere, you just walk into the it was because a neighboring will be able to put some system. We allow the system to community had a post office and Chief William Makinde professional /management touch work rather than people working. had no oil, so they wanted a post Hon. Godwin Ebosa Board Chairman Managing Director into governance and office that was bigger processes that have and far better to prove been in place before to them that they had now. “ The essence of our job is oil, even though they QUESTION: Talking community driven, we are had no need of it . a b o u t t h e n e w Now typically, that is structure that the here for the development of what we find in many of governor has put in o u r c o m m u n i t i e s place, what do you the communities. So from whether Ijaw, Itsekiri, make of it? Urhobo. People expect Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh JP Hon. Christopher Ochor Ochor Mr. Philip Gbasin Engr. Victor Oritsetimeyi Wood conceptualization up to Executive Director, Fin. & Admin. Executive Director, Social Services Executive Director, Projects Executive Director, Planning, Research & Statistics RESPONSE: I think it is you to do things done in line with implementation, the because it is found NDDC structure with s o m e w h e r e e l s e . the expectation that communities must be Whereas it might be sound management involved because you can't m e e t i n g a n e e d principles will be somewhere it may not a p p l i e d i n t o a sit here and design a project be the priority here, so g o v e r n m e n t c o - what I want to leave Chief Amos Itiwhe Chief Pius Ovbije Mr. Jonathan Amitaye operation and that for a community that behind is that, we will Member, Rep. Urhobo Ethnic Nationality Member, Rep. Urhobo Ethnic Nationality Member, Rep. Urhobo Ethnic Nationality also requires that probably does not meet the execute projects that every department will will meet the needs of be seen as being need of that community”. the people. We will not p r o f e s s i o n a l l y abandon any project. m a n a g e d . E v e r y T h e o n e w e a r e directive will be executing must meet carried out in a much The system will get people to work the standard design Hon. Fidelis Chukwuwike Oputa Hon. Comr. Nnamdi Ezechi Hon. Ovie Oghoore more professional manner than s o t h a t w e d o n ' t h a v e and scope in the BOQ. There will be Member, Rep. Ndokwa Ethnic Nationality Member, Rep. Ndokwa Ethnic Nationality Member, Rep. Isoko Ethnic Nationality the typical government approach discontinuity when somebody no compromise, no negotiation and attitude. Apart from sound comes in and leaves. There shall be about that. We must serve our management, there will be new no vacuum. When a sound system people with sincerity and integrity. work ethics. People will work in is in place, the organization will That is what I want to leave behind. accordance with best practices. work well irrespective of whoever We are bringing in private comes on board. sector/government practices QUESTION: As the Executive together. So, there is going to be a Director (Project), what machinery Chief Thomas Ereyitomi Chief Favour Izuokumor blend. are you putting in place for the Member, Rep. Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality Member, Rep. Ijaw Ethnic Nationality

D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 20 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 05 Contd. from cover Page NEWS SPECIAL INTERVIEW OKOWA TASKS NEW DESOPADEC BOARD ON SOUND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE My Private Sector Experience In his acceptance speech on behalf According to him, they will be and the Delta State House of of the Board, the Chairman, Hon guided by the Governor's S.M.A.R.T Assembly on their side, they will Godwin Ebosa expressed gratitude a ge n d a a s t h ey s e e t h e i r deliver. Will Impact On DESOPADEC, Says Gbasin to the Governor for finding them appointment as a call to serve our worthy of the appointment. dear State, noting that with God

Mr. Philip Gbasin is the Executive job here is, community focused. we will focus on here so that we I’m Aware Of Problems Facing Our People- EbosaDirector, Projects in DESOPADEC, The essence of our job is can embark on projects that will Contd. from cover Page a position many regard as very community driven. We are here for meet the needs of the people and creating more problems for O n his vision and advice to sensitive and central to the core t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e not the wants of some people contractors”. stakeholders, Hon Ebosa said going objectives and mission of the c o m m u n i t i e s . S o f r o m (individuals) On the hostility of communities to by global economic downturn Commission. In this engaging c o n c e p t u a l i z a t i o n u p t o QUESTION: Sir, given the uncertain projects execution, Hon Ebosa said occasioned by falling oil price, interview with the duo of Ekrika implementation, the communities economic situation in the country they should be more friendly so that DESOPADEC derivation will also be Ebitimi Judith and Ibru Nejuvie must be involved because you especially the down-turn in oil contractors can complete projects affected, thus whatever that is in Warri, he gave an insight into can't sit here and design a project prices, how do you think the on time. a v a i l a b l e s h o u l d b e u s e d h o w h i s p r i v a t e s e c t o r for a community that probably Commission will be able to Also speaking on complaints by judiciously. background will rob off on the does not meet the need of the effectively manage the S.M.A.R.T contractors on delayed payment of Commission. Agenda of Governor completed jobs, Hon Ebosa said He advised stakeholders to be calm Excepts: O k o w a ' s “we will solve that problem through and not be in a hurry and have Q U E S T I O N : Administration? proper planning”, noting that “we confidence in this set of people Congratulation on your RESPONSE: One of will not award contracts when the appointed to pilot the affairs of the a p p o i n t m e n t a s the items in the funds are not available and once Commission. Executive Director. Sir, SMART agenda is jobs are certified for payment, we Hon. Godwin Ebosa what are you bringing st rate g i c we a l t h need to pay Immediately”. Board Chairman to bear on this job? creation. With the RESPONSE: Thank you dwindling revenue My Mission Is To Lift People Out Of Poverty- Makindevery much. I came from base, one of the Contd. from cover Page the background of the things I think we can According to him, his desire and overgrown with weeds because you private sector, Chervon do here is to see how focus during his tenure is to get want to give a contractor a job or score Nigeria Limited where we can realign the the Board to balance the issue of cheap political gains.” we have handled budget to meet the infrastructural development and Speaking to DESOPADEC Today shortly d i v e r s e i s s u e s , current realities. I am human capital development so after the inaugural meeting with the d e p a r t m e n t s a n d aware that the state that we can lift the people out of Board, Chief Makinde hinted that they r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s government has also poverty. In his words. “We have would award projects that they can including community done realignment advised our commissioners to afford, noting that they cannot afford from about N400 liaise with communities so that as having jobs abandoned. “Projects will development projects, billion to N200 billion. the governor said during the be done according to available funds. p u b l i c r e l a t i o n s , Mr. Philip Gbasin inauguration, there will be We will not award contracts based on c o m m u n i t y Executive Director, Projects It is just realistic that bottom-top approach. We will not sentiments or to score political gains. I engagement, media you plan according to design projects for communities think we should move the discussion relations etc. I believe what you have and in Warri, rather we will encourage away from building roads and bridges these experiences will have impact community. I remember, in 1982, not according to what you want. So commissioners to go to their to lifting our people out of poverty. I in the performance of this new set the then federal government that is what we are going to look at, communities through town hall look at the poverty index especially in up. under Shehu Shagari executed to see how we will be able to meetings to generate projects. my area which is at 75% as criminal. We QUESTION: How do you intend to some housing units in Sokoto distribute the scarce resources should move the discussion away from engage your stakeholders to State. They were not occupied into different sectors that will They should be projects that can ourselves to the people that actually ensure that projects are bottom- because they did not meet the meet the needs of the women, Chief William Makinde lift people out of poverty and not need the assistance.'' he said. Managing Director local architectural design of the youth, children, men, education, building houses that are top driven? RESPONSE: The bottom line of our people. That is one of the things infrastructure and other sectors of D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 06 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 19 NEWS Itiwhe Promises Rapid Development Of Oil Communities n e o f t h e m e m b e r communities that he would run the representing Urhobo Ethnic affairs of his office in consultation with FEED BACK ONationality in the Board of the oil producing communities and DESOPADEC Hon. (Chief) Amos Itiwhe would not take any decision affecting has promised to key into Gov. Okowa's the development or the needs of in S.M.A.R.T Agenda. various communities without first the workers are development and Chief Itiwhe while speaking to news consulting with them, promising to Anticipating d Ais a wNewelcome Beginningement of host of this new Boar aff welfare, involv men at the reception ground in his operate an open door policy in the The resumption which include st e to compound in Ughelli, emphasized that management of DESOPADEC affairs in of expectations fields like agricultur We are full esting in other Mr. he will not go outside the law estab- his areas. high spirit. tion and inv ations. in projects initia with job specific lishing and guiding DESOPADEC The DESOPADEC Board Member called communities e strict compliance of projects to ensur operations on equal representation. on the oil producing communities to proper monitoring Hon. ltiwhe who thanked Gov. Okowa be patient and co-operate with his yekwere, Kwale for giving him the opportunity to serve administration as he serves them on On the people expressed assurance that the Board in order to move the areas he would not disappoint him and those forward and to attain the next level in who stood for him as political fathers line with Dr. Okowa's vision. Rekindling Our Hopes and leaders to attain this present posi- Chief Amos Itiwhe The arrival of this new Board is expect tion. Board Member ed to be the beginning of new and developments in the Commission. positive He further assured all the oil producing The staff are expecting good salary incremen welfare packages, t in line with the NDDC model, good relations. management and personnel Osanebi Vouches For Ndokwa DESOPADEC Reps Miss. Akpevwe, Ughelli . .Thanks Okowa For Appointments

HE Deputy Speaker, Delta State Nnamdi Ezechi and Hon. Felix Oputa, Governor for having confidence in House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. who are Director and Board Members young people, which he has Friday Osanebi, has declared respectively on the Board of the Delta demonstrated thus far by giving them T t of the cemen that Ndokwa People should hold him S t a t e O i l P r o d u c i n g A r e a s appointments to prove themselves Display Of Identitye tCardso see the enfor responsible if the trio of Hon. D e v e l o p m e n t C o m m i s s i o n and to add to nation building. t procedur long over indeed an establishmen This practice, Christopher Ochor Ochor, Hon. Comr. (DESOPADEC), fail to attract and "We return all the glory to God for his thing of joy and the Commission. an It is a staff members of s should not be deliver democracy dividends to faithfulness. As a people we are happy identity card by ts and our display of ganized establishmen initiative of the Ndokwa people. The Deputy with the choice of His Excellency. the of well-or the corporate due, is the tradition t I commend ay. Miss Speaker made the assertion Governor and the caliber of persons he on this note tha be abandoned mid-w recently in Government House has given the opportunity to prove exception. It is practice will not the hope that this when he was speaking to news themselves. The persons that he has management, with men shortly after the swearing in sworn in today are people of integrity Tsegbeyiri, Koko ceremony of Directors and and people that have the people at Alero m e m b e r s o f t h e n e w l y heart. Personally, I believe in them, constituted Board. and I want to say that our people Advice To DESOPADEC Cooperative Societies I want to use The Deputy Speaker said that the should hold me responsible if they this medium to advise the the executives of the two cooper declaration became imperative don't deliver, but I know these men will Commission to heed to the ative Societies in in order to reassure Ndokwa meet the expectations of our people compliants of staff who personal pressing ma need soft loans to offset people that the choice of the by the grace of God, and Ndokwa tters. There is need for the listen to executive to be more responsiv Governor in the appointment as nation and Delta State at large will the people that elected them. e and A situation where c it concerns Ndokwa nation and move to the next level", the Deputy response is not healthy enough. alls are made without They should change their a DESOPADEC was for the good of Speaker declared with enthusiasm. Otu-Jeremi ttitude. Akpevwe Akpobi, all and the right choice for the He also thanked Governor Okowa for youths and people of Ndokwa t h e a p p o i n t m e n t s a n d h i s Rt. Hon. Friday Ossai Osanebi nation and Delta State at large. magnanimity towards Ndokwa nation Deputy Speaker Delta State House of Assembly Osanebi, also thanked the in his appointments so far.

D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 18 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 07 FEATURES NEWS DESOPADEC & OKOWA'S S.M.A.R.T AGENDA By Evelyn Obibi Ovie Of Ughelli Honours Ovbije he Governor of Delta State, the programme. Governor Okowa, on 18th August Sen. (Dr) Infeanyi Arthur Okowa In creating meaningful peace building 2015 signed this bill into law after it With Chieftaincy Title Tduring his inauguration, came platforms aimed at political/social had passed through all the necessary HE newly sworn-in DESOPADEC pointing out that all would be carried Kingdom, the Member described him out with his plan for the state stability in his S.M.A.R.T Agenda, procedures in the House. Member representing Urhobo along in the distribution of projects as a father of all and thanked the encapsulated in a well laid-out agenda O kowa h a s e sta b l i s h e d a n d A 14-man Board, made up of a Ethnic Nationality, Hon. Pius and empowerment, appealing for their monarch for the chieftaincy title. He called S.M.A.R.T. The well thought-out inaugurated a 31-man Advisory and Managing Director, four Executive T Odioko Ovbije has been honoured with co-operation and support to the assured the Ovie of ad equate agenda is designed to bring about Peace Building Council for the state. Directors, as well as a Chairman and 8 a traditional chieftaincy title by the Okowa-led Government and the oil representation of all the oil prosperity to all Deltans. The council is headed by an elder members was sworn in on the 28th of Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom for hard work Commission. communities. The Acronym, S.M.A.R.T, means, statesman and former minister, Prof. August, 2015 by the Governor to and loyalty to Gov. Okowa. While thanking the Ovie of Ughelli The traditional ruler of Ughelli Strategic Wealth creation projects Sam Oyovbaire. Governor Okowa in coordinate the activities of the The event which took place Kingdom while speaking with news and provision of job for all Deltans, his bid to see that meaningful Commission. During the swearing in recently at the palace of the Ovie, men, emphasized that the Meaningful peace building platforms transformation takes place as well as ceremony, the Governor urged the s a w t h e M e m b e r o n t h e traditional chieftaincy title which aimed at political and social harmony; fulfill promises made during his B o a r d m e m b e r s t o e n s u r e DESOPADEC Board, Hon. (Chief) he conferred on him was to Agricultural reforms and accelerated campaign, forwarded the Asaba DESOPADEC delivered on its statutory Odioko Ovbije appreciating encourage him and commended industrialization; Relevant health and Capital Development Agency Bill as roles and functions, as well as impact G o v e r n o r O ko w a f o r t h e him for his foresight because when education policies; Transformed positively on the lives of the people of appointment and describing the the Urhobos were still thinking of environment through urban the oil bearing communities. governor as a man of his words who whom to support, Chief Ovbije was renewal. Governor Okowa so far, is successfully never deviates from his promises. certain that Okowa would win and Governor Okowa's S.M.A.R.T delivering on his S.M.A.R.T Agenda in According to him, "even on my sick he convinced others to work for Agenda is an all embracing and line with the prosperity for all Deltans, bed, he was there for me and as Okowa as agreed and today, his masses oriented mission. In his a promise he made during his such, I am spurred to work harder foresight has paid off, hence the words during his inaugural campaign. Recently, some officials of to make his government a huge title. speech, the governor said, the Okowa-led administration in a success", "S.M.A.R.T is not so much a new joint press briefing to newsmen in To the people of his constituency, policy as it is a new approach to Asaba, disclosed that Delta State Hon. Chief Odioko Ovbije promised addressing our most pressing Government is set to begin massive to put smiles on the faces of all the Chief Pius Ovbije needs. It will sustain and deepen road construction in the State to oil producing communities, DESOPADEC Board Member the Delta Beyond Oil policy and provide infrastructure and prosperity lay a solid foundation for to residents of the state. The e c o n o m i c g r o w t h a n d Commissioners also said the Ebosa's Appointment As DESOPADEC infrastructural development. Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa executive council has approved Essentially, S.M.A.R.T is a Executive Governor, Delta State construction of a modern market in Boss, A Welcome Devt.-Gbragada programme designed to create Orerokpe. According to them, s the Delta State Governor, Dr. without fail". communities in order for the new Board jobs, generate and sustain Governor Okowa is in haste to see that well as the Delta State Contributory lfeanyi Okowa continues to The PDP chieftain, who said that the members to succeed. businesses, stabilize families and his campaign policies are actualized Health commission bill to the Delta receive applause on the suc- appointment was well-deserved, added In his comment, an elated Ebosa communities within a frame work of within the resources available to the A State House of Assembly for urgent cessful nomination of members for that Hon. Ebosa's wealth of experience ascribed his appointment by Governor equity, fairness and justice" From all state in line with the S.M.A.R.T passage. The Asaba Capital appointment and their swearing-in, into and pedigree in business would be put Okowa to the will of God, saying that indications, Governor Okowa's Agenda. The State Executive Council Development Bill is aimed at the Board of Delta State Oil Producing to bear on the Commission's operations. "it's another opportunity to serve the S.M.A.R.T Agenda is specific, has also approved the upgrade and developing and transforming the Areas Development Commis sion While thanking the state Governor for people on a wider scale and I will measurable, achievable, realistic and procurement of educational capital city into a city that Deltans can (DESOPADEC), a chieftain of the People's the wise decision and consideration, he certainly deliver". time bound, hence the speed in the equipment for the technical colleges be proud of, while that of the Delta Democratic Party (PDP) in Warri North opined that, with the support of the commencement of all planned in Agbor, Ofagbe and Sapele, spread S t a t e C o n t r i b u t o r y H e a l t h Local Government Area, Pa E.K. other members of the Board, the oil programmes by the Governor. across the three senatorial districts in Commission is to provide accessible Gbragada and some indigenes of the producing areas would witness the To kick start this agenda, Governor the state. and affordable health care services to locality have praised the Governor for much desired transformation. Okowa started a job creation With all these in mind, it is however, Deltans. appointing their own, Hon Godwin Another indigene of the area, Mr. programme which saw a large important for Deltans to support As promised in his inaugural speech to Ebosa as the Chairman of the Governing Godwin Asule, who could not hide his number of Delta youths applying to be Governor Okowa's S.M.A.R.T Agenda Board. joy on the choice of Hon. Ebosa for ap- give strength to the Delta State Oil trained. The popularity of this since it is tailored towards developing Pa. Gbragada who spoke to newsmen pointment as Chairman said, "Oh! It is a Producing Areas Development programme and the high expectations the state. To actualize the set goal of averred that "truly the appointment of welcome development. DESOPADEC Commission (DESOPADEC) Law, by of Deltans from Governor Okowa, the S.M.A.R.T Agenda, Deltans have to Godwin Ebosa as Chairman will lead to a actually needs men like him to pilot its way of restructuring the Board and brought about 70,000 applications work with the Governor to build a turn around of the Commission for the affairs, and I think the governor has management in line with the Niger instead of the 6,000 slots advertised Delta State of their dreams. betterment of the people of the state", made the right choice”. Delta Developing Commission, NDDC for by the government. So far, 1,645 adding that "Ebosa is a man of vision, He however, called for the support and model through an Amendment Bill, Hon. Godwin Ebosa youths have been trained to start off who plans ahead and handles issues understanding of all oil producing Board Chairman

D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 08 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 17 NEWS NEWS DESOPADEC: IYC Egbema Kingdom LaudsNew BoardOkowa Set To Engage Staff Meaningfully he Chairman and leadership of leadership will continue to stand for communities hitherto neglected. -Hon. Ochor Ochor Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in what is right and pursue the values and It observed that with focus- minded he Executive Director, Social trying to see how they can play down looking into how the staff clinic can Egbema Kingdom, Prince Igiriki objectives that will enhance people appointed so far to pilot the Services Hon. Chris Ochor the high tempo of ethnicity in the function again. All these would be T Ochor has said that the new Commission. He further stated that looked into by the next budget.'' Brakemiye, has hailed Governor development and progress across the affairs of the Commission, both full and T Ifeanyi Okowa for being able to land. part- time, more opportunities are cre- Governing Board of DESOOPADEC is projects that will be carried out would Hon Ochor Ochor spoke on efforts restructure DESOPADEC despite the They commended Governor Okowa for ated, which will revamp the socio- determined to engage all staff of the b e t h o s e t h at va r i o u s h o st to mitigate impending flooding in the hiccups that trailed it, saying his action his foresight in the restructuring of the economic fortunes of the people. Commission meaningfully. communities generated. state, saying he has communicated will ensure that the aspirations of oil Commission, which they noted, is Speaking to a crew of DESOPADEC Asked about the new structure and with the Delta State office of the producing communities in Delta State intended to wittle down the powers of Today in Warri, Hon. Ochor said from Nigerian metrological Agency, are realised. the Commission and also prune waste h i s m e e t i n g w i t h H e a d s o f NIMET as well as the Abuja office to In a press statement issued to of resources allocat ed to the Departments and Units, they have all get formal range of the flood from journalists in Benin-City, the Edo State Commission. been informed to reach out to staff to River Niger. capital, Prince Brakemiye described Prince Brakemiye also expressed get ready for various tasks ahead. ''We received news that two dams, the appointment "as putting square appreciation to Governor Okowa, for According to the former Ukuwani one from Niger Republic and the pegs in square holes”, adding that “the appointing one of their own who has Local Government Council Chairman, other from Cameroon have been choice of the four Executive Directors, been a source of hope to Egbema he is coming to the Board with a lot of opened. We have been informed particularly that of Pastor Philip Kingdom and for other appointments e x p e r i e n c e s a s a f o r m e r a l s o t h a t A n a m b r a s t a t e Gbasin, who has spent 25 years of in the Commission. c o m m i s s i o n e r, fo r m e r l o c a l government has relocated 28 unblemished record with Chevron is a The leadership of lYC in Egbema Government Council Chairman, and a communities from the riverine pointer that the Commission is poised kingdom viewed the development as former member of the House of areas to safer places. With all these Assembly, noting that he has a lot of information, we are also trying to do to deliver." noble and laudable as it will help Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa The statement maintained that the provide the dividends of democracy to Executive Governor, Delta State role to play with the kind of Hon. Christopher Ochor Ochor the same and see how DESOPADEC experiences he is bringing to the Executive Director, Social Services can come in to handle the issue system. before the floods begin to come in. Speaking on his intention to key into We are set to do enough welfare of staff of the Commission, he DESOPADEC Board: Wood Thanks Olu Of Warri the Governor's S.M.A.R.T Agenda, he enlightenment so that our people can said by the time the Board meets, TSEKIRI representative in the oil producing areas and give pride people. For the first time Itsekiri said the Governor's mandate is move from likely flood areas.'' issues relating to staff welfare would newly constituted Board of the to the Iteskiri nation, especially the nation through our re vered explicit enough as the structure of the He described his relationship with his be sorted out. Commission has been renewed to the Ndokwa colleagues in the Board as Delta State Oil Producing Areas Olu who nominated him to monarch has spoken with one voice ‘'If there are areas that staff are not I NDDC model which gives them the cordial, stressing that he will soon D e v e l o p m e n t C o m m i s s i o n Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. and chosen a generally accepted satisfied with, we would look into drive towards service delivery to the embark on town hall meetings to (DESOPA D EC), Engr. Victor Reacting to the homage by Wood, a hand to represent us. It is a sign of them. But from my angle, and the mandate areas. c o n s u l t w i t h t h e d i f f e r e n t Oritsetimeyin Wood has thanked palace chief, Mene Brown said it good things to come." directorate I am handling, we have set On the expectation of staff and host communities. He then gave a forecast the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse was the first time an Itsekiri up committees to look into staff communities from the new Board, of DESOPADEC that will grow to welfare in areas of cooperative, health II for finding him worthy to be appointee in public office would Hon. Ochor Ochor noted that they are become useful to the mandate areas services and so on. We are also presented for the appointment. show such humility in leaving his and meet up the expectations of the Expressing his appreci ation swearing in to return to thank recently at the palace of the Olu in the Palace and the Itsekiri nation Warri shortly after the new Board's for the confidence placed in him. New Structure/Organogram Released inauguration at Asaba, Wood said The traditional council which he was honoured that the Itsekiri expressed opti mism that As Board Settles Down To Work nation through the Olu found him Wood's coming into DESOPADEC s the newly inaugurated Directors Administration are the Departments most trusted among several would bring positive change to G o v e r n i n g B o a r d o f On top of the ladder is the Board with of Admin and Supplies and Finance qualified others to represent her in the Itsekiri nation, offered DESOPADEC settles down to a Chairman and following is the and Accounts. Projects Directorate such a sensitive office. special prayers for him to A work; the office of the Head of Managing Director who is the Chief oversees the Department of Wo o d , w h o wa s u nt i l h i s succeed in the new office. Administration and Supplies has Executive Officer super-intending the infrastructure and works. appointment a manager in Shell, President, Itsekiri National released a new organogram indicating General Services Department The Directorate of Planning, Research promised to bring his industrial Youth Council, Esimaje Awani where Units and Departments belong. comprising Internal Audit, Legal, Press and Statistics covers the Department experience to bear in discharging who accompanied the new Under the new structure, there are and Security Units. of Planning, Research and Statistics his duties in the new office in a DESOPADEC Executive Director four directorates comprising Finance Also under the Managing Director is and Tender Unit. The Social Services manner that will change the (PRS) to the palace said, "We are and Administration, Projects, Planning the Department of Investment & Directorate covers the Department of Engr. Victor Oritsetimeyi Wood and Research and Statistics as well as Industrial Promotions. Under the Community Development and Public fortunes of DESOPADEC for Delta's by this development happy as a Executive Director, Planning, Research & Statistics Social Services headed by Executive D i re c t o ra t e o f F i n a n c e a n d Enlightenment and Department of D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 16 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 09 SPECIAL INTERVIEW NEWS New DESOPADEC Structure Staff Must Be Enlightened On DESOPADEC New Direction -- Ogieh *Promotion Is A Reward For Hardwork. Will Encourage by Evelyn Obibi and Francisca Egara he Executive Director, Finance and said promotion is a reward system that Dismissing fears of staff rationalization, Efficiency And Effectiveness Administration, Bashorun (Hon.) needs re-activation but emphasized that Bashorun Ogieh who was once a Local -Chief Izuokumor. Askia Ogieh JP has harped on the once the staff are working and we are Council Chairman, said the present Board members to achieve the called our attention to, have been T need for staff of DESOPADEC to be able to assess them, then they can have has no plans to lay off any staff, stressing dreams of his Excellency, abandoned. We will try to find out enlightened on the new direction of the their regular promotion and benefits. that “all that we want to do is to engage Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. what the causes are because there Commission to enable them appreciate He further said that one should not talk of them so that they can earn their pay”. How do you see the present are some cases where we were told the agenda of the new Board. promotion when people are not assessed “Within the mandate areas, we will get structure of DESOADEC vis a that DESOPADEC had paid some Speaking to a crew of DESOPADEC Today and appraised, noting that promotion is things for them to do. This will be done in vis the old one? contractors some money but what in his office, Bashorun Ogieh emphasized based on one's appraisal and a reward for line with their various fields of study as that many staff of the Commission are hard work. some of them will be made Field Officers I am very optimistic about it. is on ground at the site is not ignorant of what the new direction of “For this reason, we shall come up with an to monitor DESOPADEC projects”, he Universally, you can agree commensurate with the payment. DESOPADEC entails arising from the appraisal system which is called APER said. with me that most people are We will call on all contractors that recent amendment of the law (Annual Performance Evaluation Report) resistant to change. The new are working in the Ijaw area to be establishing the Commission. in Public Service”. structure is something that we aware of the new policy of the According to him, it is the duty of the in- On the need for well thought out have not practiced. We are Governor. We need to work as house journal, DESOPADEC Today, to projects, Bashorun Ogieh stated further Chief Favour Izuokumor somehow used to the old partners and in doing that, you need enlighten the staff of their responsibilities that projects that would be executed in and focus of the Commission, noting that the various host communities would be DESOPADEC Board Member structure. I think as the to execute a job once it is given to if the journal fails, ignorance will pervade those that the people actually need. governor has tailored it after you. I do not want to criticize the hief Favour Izuokumor is the in the system. “To achieve this” he said, “there will be the NDDC model, I want to believe past Board. They did their best. Member representing the Said he, “We will carry out workshops and proper interaction with persons from that the new structure will Improvement is a continuous Ijaw ethnic nationality in the seminars where we will purge ourselves these host communities. If you carry out C encourage efficiency and will make exercise. The issue of initiation of of old baggage and engage in proper projects that the people actually need in new DESOPADEC Board. This the Commission to be effective. contracts will be based on the orientation”. their communities, the impact will be refined and amiable gentleman Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh JP That is the wish of the governor. I bottom-top approach. We will Speaking on the need to promote indelible and such projects would be Executive Director, Fin. & Admin. with untainted frankness and workers who are due, Bashorun Ogieh protected”. think in that light, I feel that it will be involve the grassroots and we will charisma recently spoke on several far better than the former. monitor contractors to ensure that issues of interest in this interview What kind of experience are you they execute the contracts awarded Contd. from 14 Page with the duo of Ebiakpo Obayendo bringing to the job as the past to them. If a contractor fails to people in terms of infrastructural creation of the Commission. This bill the people who have experienced and Ibru Nejuvie. president of the Izon Ibe Oil execute a contract and he or she has development, social services and passed through public hearing, all environmental degradation as a result Excerpts: Producing Communities Forum? been paid, we will write to the state economic services, the Governor said. segments of oil producing areas were of oil spills should certainly work for Can we know you sir, your It was reliably learnt that the new law invited to make their contributions. It their people. We are working now as a team with House of Assembly to blacklist such background and what you can use will make DESOPADEC to function to the was properly taken care of and the bill Governor Okowa deserves kudos for his the Board members. One of my a contractor not to carry out any that background to effect in the extent that actions of the management has been finally passed into law to the undaunted resolve to do things right for experiences is that I have been with contracts with DESOPADEC again. new DESOPADEC? team must be justified. Projects will be glory of God." Deltans not because of political reasons multi- nationals. The multinationals scrutinized and sited where they are The signing of the bill into law by but, because, Deltans are wise enough First and foremost I am Chief Favour ensure that you carry out the job. Sir, at your swearing in, the needed. The era when projects were Governor Okowa certainly has thrown to know when they are being Izuokumor. I am the spokesman of You will hardly hear of projects Governor said it should be bottom sited because of who was involved up another challenge as the people will hoodwinked. He has proved that his Ogbe-Ijoh Traditional Council. I am b e e n a b a n d o n e d . I a m top approach in projects initiation rather than to meet needs of the people naturally be in haste to see the changes mantra of equity, justice and fairness in also the Executive Chairman of CDC representing the Ijaw ethnic which you have talked about. How is over. the 'new' DESOPADEC will bring to the the management of the affairs of the of Azuzu Kingdom, one of the oil To the Speaker of the Delta State House oil producing communities. state is real and that Deltans will benefit nationality to ensure that projects do you want to engage your producing kingdoms in Warri South of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya One is very confident that Governor from the prosperous agenda. are well executed because that is stakeholders, especially the West Local Government area. I am a who was accompanied by his Deputy, Okowa has indeed appointed tested The signing into law of the amended the directive of the governor. It is communities in terms of the grassroots leader. I was a one time Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi and other people who can confidently manage DESOPADEC Bill signals a new not going to be business as usual. generation of projects? president of Izon-Ibe Oil Producing principal officers of the House to human and material resources, people beginning, a beginning of infrastructure Projects will be generated based on I will summon a stakeholders Government House, Asaba for the sign- who command respect, people who will haul, a time for the people of oil Communities Forum which was their expected impacts on the meeting, a kind of a conference ing of the Bill, "the bill was properly not see money allocated to DESOPADEC producing communities to rejoice for interfacing between the multi- people and I will also ensure that because whatever policies we need looked into by members of the House in as their personal money, people who having oil in their land and it is very vital nationals, the government and the the challenges of abandoned to carry out has to be the bottom spite of all the controversies sur- will work to uplift the standard of living that we pray that Governor Okowa oil producing communities. I have rounding the presentation of the bill, of the oil producing communities into succeeds in getting it right; we should projects will not be allowed. We will top approach. We also need the some basic experiences which I because, the controversies made the the management structure. also avoid actions that will be inimical to try to find out why most of these support of the communities. For want to believe by God's grace, I can members of the public know that the If those who do not know the effects of the successful running of affairs of contracts that the people have instance, there is incessant use to work with my Board bill has no harm. Instead, it was actually oil exploration activities are accused of government. to bring out the good intention for the exploiting the people of the Niger Delta, D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 10 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 15 FEATURES SPECIAL INTERVIEW vandalization of pipelines and oil see that all issues are going to be sand fill 100,000 cubits of sand to Okowa: Repositioning facilities. treated on merit. The workers that community. You will see that in We all know what is happening in should take their work seriously a year we have gotten a space of DESOPADEC For Service By Fidelis Egugbo recent times. If our oil production and we will see how the workers about maybe 100 hectare of land. also drops, then the 13 percent that will be encouraged to be We can go to the next community HE biblical statement, "to ev- the Niger Delta region. Those who are Governor Okowa took the bashing for is supposed to come to the state productive. We want to see how thereafter. These are the things I erything there is a season, and a not from the oil producing areas may daring to amend the DESOPADEC law. will drop. So my intention is to call a DESOPADEC can be moulded in a have planned and as I said, this is a time to every purpose under the not know the level of destruction to So m e p eo p le to o k p a ges o f T kind of conference and all way that the Commission can be Board decision. I cannot heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1) is one state- the eco-system as a result of oil newspapers to express their anger ment that is so consoling, encouraging exploitation without any form of against the Governor but the Governor stakeholders will be involved. We sustained without the government singlehandedly do it. I will initiate patience in line with the other biblical remedy. The setting up of DESOPADEC knowing that he took oath to do his are going to discuss how these 13 percent. We need the workers to the plan and meet with the injunction that" in every situation, give therefore, was a good move; but, it best for Deltans, was not bothered. He challenges of pipeline vandalism give us productive ideas to see how stakeholders. I think these are the thanks." turned out to be another means of remained focused and the House of and illegal bunkering activities can DESOPADEC on its own can legacies I hope to leave behind. When the Governor of Delta State, empowering some set of people Assembly, as an independent organ of be tackled. We are not ready to generate funds or extra revenue. How do you look at DESOPADEC in Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, within his without commensurate positive government, also did what they know patronize contractors that are not One of the major challenges of the the next 10 years against all these first few days in office sent a bill to impact on the host communities. best - lawmaking. ready to perform. I may not be projections? amend the Delta State Oil Producing While people from oil producing ethnic They scrutinised the Bill and also held able to know it all but from I think in the next 10 years Areas Development Commission public hearing to ensure that every- there I will know their pains most especially with the new (DESOPADEC) law, many of us were body's view was taken into consider- and I will use that platform to “I was privileged to dream of the government, confident that the Governor had ation before they approved the Bill. also articulate the policies of the sky will be the limit of the studied the existing law, seen the flaws Governor Okowa, during the signing have a meeting with in the law and, as an individual who is of the Bill, stated, "there was a lot of the government and to seek C o m m i s s i o n . T h a t i s passionate about uplifting the interest when this bill was presented their co-operation. the Governor. I saw something I can assure you. standard of living of the people that to the House of Assembly. As it is What are your hopes and The government means very produce the wealth of the country, he customary of Deltans who are very aspirations in terms of leaving sincerity , sincerity well for DESOPADEC. You decided to make a drastic move that bright and vibrant, a lot of people a legacy? know I was outside the would ensure that the people who showed interest and they had the W h a t I w a n t t o b e in the sense that his government but today I am bake the cake have a fair share of the opportunity to contribute their remembered for is for things to part of the government. On cake. q u o t a t o w a r d s a r o b u s t be done transparently. I also agenda of three occasions, I was That amendment bill passed through Commission. I want to thank God w a n t c o n t r a c t s t o b e privileged to have a meeting different processes and was recently that the Delta State House of distributed equitably. I will not with the Governor. I saw signed into law by the Governor. Every Assembly took the bill to public prosperity for all use my position to say that I sincerity, sincerity in the flower has its season and with the hearing and Deltans made their signing into law of the amended bill, contributions to enrich the Bill. will favour only Azuzu Deltans is not sense that his agenda of the people of the oil producing There was a lot of engagements and community, from Ogbe-Ijoh prosperity for all Deltans is communities will heave a great sigh of misconceptions that arose from the clan, simply because I am from rhetoric”. not rhetoric. That is why I am relief. Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa fact that some people did not even there. I will ensure that appealing to all Deltans to Most of us may not know, but it is a fact Executive Governor, Delta State know what was in the original law projects are evenly distributed support his dream for that between 1976 and 1996, there and did not know what was among the eight kingdoms in the Ijaw people which I intend to DESOPADEC. DESOPADEC will be a were 4, 647 spillages recorded in the nationalities jostled to be members of contained in the Amendment Bill Ijaw ethnic nationality. I will be consult on is the terrain since we Commission of world standard and Niger Delta region with 1, 820, 410.5 the Board of DESOPADEC because of that was sent to the House. We thank remembered for doing things are within the swamp. We will look I want to believe that the incoming barrels of oil spilled into the pecuniary benefits rather than carry- God that at the end, the bill was in the rightly. The private sectors award at how we can reclaim land through management team will ensure that environment. That happened before ing out the functions the Commission best interest of Delta State and the oil contracts based on the availability sand filling. I noticed that the governor ’s dreams are the increase in crude oil theft and producing communities in particular." was set up to execute, the people of of the resources. Any money that is DESOPADEC money may not be achieved. We just need the co- other attendant challenges in the oil the oil producing communities "Through this law, we are now enough for us to go into sector that have caused a lot of barrels establishing a Management team for available will be spent judiciously. operation of DESOPADEC staff and continued to suffer, praying that reclamation or sand filling of the of oil to be pumped into the before the oil dries, there will be a DESOPADEC which will meet the The contracts that will be initiated the various stakeholders. Ijaw communities. For instance if environment. helper. expectations for which the law was will be from the bottom-top If we are deviating, you can call our As such, while the people of the Niger That helper seems to have come in the initially established. Membership of approach as the people will be we are budgeting about N1 billion attention to it. Constructive Delta are suffering loss of farmlands, person of Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa the Board remains but now, we have involved and the few that will be from Ijaw ethnic nationality criticisms will be entertained. We lack of fish in the rivers, serious eco- who has taken the bold steps in brought in a management structure executed will be completed. budget to procure a dredger, it has are not going to victimize anybody logical issues as a result of oil explora- amending the law of DESOPADEC. that can see us through to the future of Concerning the workers, we will to be assigned to the sand filling of for criticizing us. Within the next tion activities, some persons in choice Uneasy lies the head that wears the the Commission that we all desire, a objectively look at their problems. the Ijaw communities alone. We ten years, DESOPADEC mission and places were deciding the sharing for- crown, renowned playwright and poet, Commission that will be structured to As you know, the Board Members can decide to embark on about 3 to why it was set up will be achieved mula of proceeds from sales of oil from William Shakespeare once wrote. So, impact positively on the lives of our are from different backgrounds but 4 communities in a year to see that and the sky will be our limit. Contd. on Page 15 we are going to work as a team to in each community we are going to D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 14 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 11 Chairman, Managing Director and Executive Other Board Members Taking Their Delta State Executive Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa Delta State Executive Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa in a handshake with the Chairman in a handshake with the Managing Director Directors taking their oath of office Oath Of Office of DESOPADEC Board, Hon. Godwin Ebosa of DESOPADEC, Chief William Makinde

Group Photograph of the newly inaugurated The Chairman, Hon. Godwin Ebosa and The Chairman, Hon. Godwin Ebosa, the Managing The Executive Director, Fin. & Admin., DESOPADEC Governing Board the Managing Director, Chief William Makinde Director, Chief William Makinde and the Executive Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh JP Director, Fin. & Admin., Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh JP and Chief Favour Izuokumor

Inaugural Board Meeting in session Group Photograph of Former Secretary of DESOPADEC, Sir Austin Former Secretary of DESOPADEC, Sir Austin DESOPADEC Governing Board Ede Oghoro handing Over Documents to the Ede Oghoro explaining a point to the Managing Managing Director, Chief William Makinde Director and others

D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 12 D E S O P A D E C T O D A Y P A G E 13