Stakeholders, academics and investors have emphasized the importance of peace in oil-producing communities as a critical factor for growth and economic development within the mandate areas of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
They noted that a stable and friendly environment would not only attract investors but also promote cultural harmony among the diverse ethnic groups hosting oil and gas activities.
These views were expressed over the weekend at a peace concert and end-of-year celebration organized by the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum in Warri. Speakers at the event highlighted the need for tolerance, innovation, peaceful coexistence and the strategic application of technology to drive sustainable development in the state’s oil-producing communities.
One of the guest speakers, Dr. Alfred Mulade, former Registrar of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, encouraged investors—especially indigenous contractors—to adopt modern technologies in their operations to enhance their contributions to societal development. Similarly, Professor Sunny Awhefeada of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, underscored the importance of cultural harmony among the state’s ethnic nationalities, stressing that meaningful development in DESOPADEC areas can only be achieved through unity among the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw and other ethnic groups.
Other speakers also called for sustained peaceful coexistence, as well as continuous training and capacity building for members of the forum.
In his remarks, Chairman of the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum, Engr. Ogie Samson, explained that the concert was part of efforts to promote unity and development across DESOPADEC’s intervention areas. He described the initiative as timely, noting that it would strengthen unity, encourage dialogue and create an atmosphere conducive to economic growth and sustainable development in Delta State’s oil-producing communities.
The forum’s Secretary, Prince Ebigbagha Charles, praised Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for approving the release of funds to DESOPADEC to clear outstanding debts owed to contractors.
The event’s highlights included cultural dance performances by Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw and Kwale groups, as well as the presentation of awards to the Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochornogho; the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Chief Oghenekome Okpobor; and the forum’s Secretary, Prince Ebigbagha Charles.
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