The Executive Director of Projects, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Ebenezer Okorodudu, has stated that the objectives of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) are relevant in driving economic growth in any society.
Dr. Okorodudu stated this when the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) Delta Chapter visited him on Tuesday, 4th February, 2025 in the DESOPADEC corporate office in Warri.
He commended the chairperson, Lady Judith Nwachukwu and her members for the visit.
Chief Okorodudu pointed out that as a former Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, he is familiar with the activities of the group.
“I am aware of your activities. SME is the engine room of economic growth of any society that wants to prosper. It constitutes a significant portion of Nigeria’s economic fabric, contributing substantially to GDP growth.
“It is of interest to me as the Director of Projects, because it is instrumental in shaping the economic landscape of our oil-producing communities. By generating employment, especially among our youths, creating grassroots economic prosperity. Thereby reducing unrest and other social vices”, he said.
Okorodudud added that it is therefore the responsibility of the government to provide the enabling environment for SMEs to thrive.
“The collaborative efforts of entrepreneurs and government can chart a course where the success of SMEs becomes synonymous with the progress of the entire nation”, he said.
He however urged the group to address their request to the Managing Director of DESOPADEC.
Earlier in her address, the Chairperson of NASME Delta Chapter, 
Lady Judith Nwachukwu while congratulating Dr. Okorodudu on his appointment as the Director of Projects, said the aim of their visit is to seek the support and partnership of DESOPADEC to strengthen SME in Delta State.
She further appealed to the EDP to partner with NASME to host the annual International Women’s Day scheduled for March 8, 2025.
