Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders Forum Passes Vote of Confidence on ISOPADEC MD Onyedebelu, Warns Distractors
Owerri, Imo State -July 7, 2026
The Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders Forum has passed a vote of confidence on the Managing Director of the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), Chief Austin Onyedebelu, expressing satisfaction with his leadership and commitment to the development of oil-producing communities in Imo State.
The endorsement came on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, when leaders of the Forum, led by Comrade Wisdom Nwauwa, paid a courtesy visit to the ISOPADEC Managing Director in Owerri.
During the meeting, the youth leaders highlighted several challenges confronting communities in the oil-producing areas and appealed for sustained government intervention to address developmental needs across the region.
Responding, Chief Onyedebelu gave a detailed briefing on the Commission’s ongoing projects and programmes, explaining that ISOPADEC remains committed to delivering meaningful development to the people. He noted that the Commission regularly engages traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups and other stakeholders to ensure inclusiveness and transparency in its operations.
The ISOPADEC boss further assured the delegation that his office remains open to every citizen of the oil-producing region, encouraging stakeholders to continue offering constructive suggestions that will enhance the Commission’s performance.
Speaking after the meeting, Comrade Nwachukwu Charles Oringo President NDYM IMO State Chapter, , commended the Managing Director for his accessibility, responsiveness and developmental initiatives, stating that the youths were impressed by the level of work being undertaken by the Commission.
As the highlight of the visit, the Forum unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Chief Onyedebelu, urging all stakeholders from the oil-producing communities to unite behind his leadership in the interest of peace, stability and sustainable development.
The Forum also expressed optimism that Chief Onyedebelu’s emergence as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State would further strengthen his access to Governor Hope Uzodimma and attract greater developmental attention to the oil-producing communities.
According to the youth leaders, the dual responsibility places the ISOPADEC Managing Director in a strategic position to facilitate stronger collaboration between the Commission and the state government, a development they believe will translate into unprecedented growth for the Niger Delta communities in Imo State.
The Forum, however, warned individuals allegedly sponsoring campaigns of blackmail and distraction against the Managing Director to desist immediately.
It advised those interested in succeeding Chief Onyedebelu to allow him complete his tenure, stressing that unnecessary distractions and politically motivated attacks would only undermine the Commission’s developmental mandate.
The youth leaders reaffirmed its commitment to supporting every genuine effort aimed at improving the welfare of the people of the oil-producing areas and pledged to continue partnering with ISOPADEC in promoting peace, accountability and sustainable development across the region.