DESOPADEC to Begin Bursary Payment and Commission Completed Projects Across Delta Communities
GoldenNewsNg reports that the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) is set to commence the payment of bursary awards to qualified indigent students from its mandate areas, alongside the official commissioning of completed infrastructure projects in affected communities.
The development was disclosed during a media briefing held on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Commission’s Head Office in Warri. The Board confirmed that the bursary disbursement process will begin shortly, as the application portal has closed and funds are available for immediate payment.
The initiative is designed to ease the financial burden faced by students from oil-producing communities and is part of the Commission’s broader strategy to enhance human capital development across the state.
In addition to the bursary payment, DESOPADEC also plans to commission several completed infrastructure projects across its mandate areas. These projects, though completed, have yet to be officially inaugurated for use. The Commission noted that the commissioning exercise would help raise public awareness about its ongoing developmental efforts.
The Managing Director and CEO of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor, confirmed that preparations for disbursement are in the final stages. The list of verified and qualified beneficiaries is being finalized, with payments expected to commence by early August. Each selected student will receive ₦50,000 under the scheme.
The Commission emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability in the process, ensuring that only eligible applicants benefit from the bursary. It also reaffirmed its intention to support education and youth empowerment initiatives within the oil-producing communities.
Beyond the bursary programme, DESOPADEC announced that a schedule is being developed for the commissioning of completed projects to further demonstrate its infrastructural impact and development contributions across local communities.
The Commission also addressed ongoing concerns from contractors regarding project payments. It clarified that payments are made progressively and based on project certification, and assured that all pending obligations would be settled accordingly.
Additionally, the Board pledged to foster internal collaboration between management and staff, noting that improved communication and regular staff promotions are part of the strategy to boost performance and ensure efficient delivery of services.
Since its inauguration two years ago, the current DESOPADEC Board has reportedly made significant strides in holding regular meetings, implementing impactful projects, and promoting internal synergy aimed at advancing the Commission’s mandate.
The planned bursary disbursement and upcoming project commissioning are expected to further solidify DESOPADEC’s role in advancing youth development, education support, and community infrastructure across Delta State.
