The Executive Director, Planning, Research and Statistics at DESOPADEC, Pst. Nicholas Efele, has empowered residents of Ijala and Ugbegungun communities in Warri South West Local Government Area with fish farms, in a move aimed at improving livelihoods and creating sustainable income.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in Warri, Efele explained that the initiative was designed to uplift living standards in oil-bearing communities within the Commission’s mandate area. He noted that beneficiaries were nominated by their community leadership and would take full ownership of the fish farms, with the expectation of expanding the venture over time.
Efele described fish farming as a lucrative alternative, particularly as traditional fishing continues to decline due to pollution and environmental degradation. He urged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity, adding that the Commission would monitor progress to ensure success and extend similar interventions to more people.
He further emphasised that the empowerment programme reflects a shift in DESOPADEC’s engagement strategy, focusing on sustainable, community-driven initiatives that deliver long-term impact.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Toju Ebietan from Ijala community expressed gratitude to Efele, the management of DESOPADEC, and Sheriff Oborevwori for the initiative, noting that it would significantly ease economic hardship and improve livelihoods in the communities.
Beneficiaries of the programme include Toju Ebietan, Toju Toser, Okoturoh Edwin, Omebeyinje Isaac, Omatsone Abugewa, and Omebeyinje Kingsley.
