By Joyce Akpalikpo,
The Member representing Ndokwa Ethnic Nationality on the Governing Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Dr. Charles Olisa, KSM, JP, has reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to youth empowerment, human capital development, and sustainable community development, assuring young people of continued investment in programmes that will improve their socio-economic wellbeing.
Dr. Olisa gave the assurance on Saturday, July 25, 2026, when he hosted the Interim Executive Committee of the Ashaka Youth Council (AYC) to a breakfast meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration with youths and promoting inclusive development across Ndokwa communities.
The delegation reflected the inclusive composition of the Ashaka Youth Council, with representatives drawn from the community's three traditional age grades—Otu Onuogbe, Otu Orire, and Otu Agbikor.
Responding to an address presented by the youth leaders, Dr. Olisa reaffirmed the commitment of the DESOPADEC Governing Board, led by Chairman, Olorogun Barr. John Nani, and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Chief Festus Ochonogor, to delivering impactful development projects across the Commission's mandate areas.
He assured the youths that DESOPADEC would continue to expand its human capital development programmes, social intervention initiatives, and youth empowerment schemes designed to equip young people with practical skills, employment opportunities, and sustainable means of livelihood.
"The Board remains focused on delivering projects that directly improve the lives of our people. Our commitment is fully aligned with the M.O.R.E. Agenda of the Delta State Government, which places the welfare, empowerment and prosperity of Deltans at the centre of governance," Dr. Olisa said.
He noted that the Commission's interventions in healthcare, education, road infrastructure, rural electrification, potable water supply, and youth empowerment remain strategic efforts aimed at accelerating development in oil-producing communities across Delta State.
Earlier, the Acting President of the Ashaka Youth Council, Comrade Ferdinand Obiajulu, commended Dr. Olisa for his accessibility, visionary leadership, and effective representation of the Ndokwa people on the DESOPADEC Governing Board.
Obiajulu observed that communities within the DESOPADEC mandate areas in Ndokwa had continued to benefit from impactful infrastructure projects, human capital development programmes, and social intervention initiatives under the Commission's current leadership.
He reaffirmed the Council's support for DESOPADEC, the Delta State Government under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the Federal Government, while pledging the Council's readiness to partner with government and the Commission in sustaining peace, strengthening unity, and advancing grassroots development across Ndokwa communities.
The meeting ended with prayers for enduring peace, unity, and sustainable development in Ashaka, the Ndokwa Nation, Delta State, and Nigeria.
Held in a cordial and interactive atmosphere, the engagement was attended by members of the Interim Executive Committee of the Ashaka Youth Council, led by Acting President, Comrade Ferdinand Obiajulu. Other officials present included Vice President, Obija Ndudi; Provost I, Mr. Anthony Ojimini; Women Leader, Ossai Faith S.; Welfare Officer, Ikem Melenu; Financial Secretary, Salubi Chukwudi Matthew; Secretary, Keshi Aniefor; PRO I, Lawrence Anibuzor; Assistant Secretary, Ajie Valentine Chukwudi; PRO II, Ogbobodo John; Organising Secretary, Odili Prosper; Treasurer, Nwabueze Ikechukwu; Adviser, Obi Festus, alongside other members of the Council.
