… Thanks Governor Hope Uzodimma for the opportunity
…urges diversification for more income through transparency and innovation
By Francis Ndimkoha
The newly inaugurated board of Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), held an inaugural meeting, on Wednesday 5th February 2025, under the Chairmanship of His Royal Highness Eze Prof. Dele Odigbo.
Addressing the board, the Managing Director, Hon. Chief Austin Onyedebelu (Ezedigbomma) while thanking the Imo State Governor, Distinguished Sen Hope Uzodimma for the opportunity to serve, declared thus; “Let us remember that this board represents not just an institution, but a promise to our people, and it is our duty to see that promise fulfilled”
Speaking further, he stated that ” ISOPADEC, in the past has relied only on the funds that accrue to her (from the 13% derivation), but we can change the narrative with the approval and support of our dear Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Sen. Hope Uzodimma. I believe we can apply our business sense to make the commission productive for the purpose of enhancing the living standards of our people in Ohaji-Egbema Oguta and Oru-East Local Government Areas, and Imo State at large”
He urged the board to remain guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and innovation, so that together the ISOPADEC, through the board, can build a future that reflects the shared aspirations, for progress, prosperity and development in Imo State.
Those present at the meeting of the newly constituted board chaired by Prof. Eze Dele Odigbo, with Chief Austin Onyedebelu as Managing Director, include Hon. Bernard Nwanana, Hon. Cassidy Ohamara, Hon. Nkeiru Ihesie, Dr. Mrs. Nina Mba, Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Joy Ikegwuruka, Mrs. Esther Enoch, Chief Valentine Okere, Hon. Mrs. Ify Obi, and Chief Kelechi Onuoha. They were joined by the management team, briefly, for familiarisation.
Chief Austin Onyedebelu, who was inaugurated on 31st January 2025, alongside other board members, assumed duties on Monday 3rd February 2025, and had to meet with the board, to chart the way forward.