The Managing Director of the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), Chief Austin Onyedebelu, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to addressing the pressing needs of communities in oil-producing areas of the state through strategic infrastructure development and job creation.
Speaking during a recent radio program in Owerri, Chief Onyedebelu highlighted ISOPADEC’s ongoing projects aimed at improving living standards and fostering sustainable growth in the region.
“We are creating meaningful economic opportunities and enabling environment for employment through the construction of modern hospitals and schools,” Onyedebelu stated. “Scores of our people will be gainfully employed through these projects, both directly and indirectly.”
Addressing concerns about youth restiveness in oil-producing communities, Onyedebelu emphasized that ISOPADEC’s approach centers on inclusion and transparency.
“We operate an open-door policy that promotes community engagement and enlightenment. The communities where these projects are sited see themselves as our development partners. We deliberately involve them as contractors and stakeholders because the projects belong to them. They benefit not only from the services provided but also through employment opportunities — some even serve as project guards,” he said.
Chief Onyedebelu also shed light on how the Commission maintains transparency and integrity in awarding contracts, noting that personal relationships never interfere with due process.
“We conduct thorough due diligence on vendors and award contracts strictly based on competence and track record. You see, to compromise excellent service delivery for the sake of friendship would be meaningless. We are committed to following the footsteps of Governor Hope Uzodimma, who has set high standards for accountability and transparency.”
The ISOPADEC boss disclosed that several key roads within oil-producing areas have been earmarked for construction immediately after the rainy season. These road projects, he explained, were carefully selected following need assessment surveys, community consultations, and on-the-spot inspections.
Reaffirming ISOPADEC’s commitment to social development, Onyedebelu revealed that the Commission is currently building 36 new primary schools, each consisting of six-classroom blocks, staff rooms, and multiple modern toilet facilities for both teachers and students.
In the healthcare sector, ISOPADEC is also constructing state-of-the-art general hospitals and health centers, which will be fully equipped to meet the growing medical needs of residents.
Chief Onyedebelu expressed confidence that these initiatives which must be completed on record time following Governor Hope Uzodimma’s directive, will bring lasting benefits to the oil-producing communities and further demonstrate Governor Hope Uzodimma’s vision for inclusive development