From TCNEWS
The General Manager of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC), Dr. Joshua Onyeike, has reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to partnering with oil companies in Abia State to enhance intervention activities in the oil and gas host communities.
In a press release co-signed by ASOPADEC Information Officers Iyke Onuegbu and Chinwe Anunobi, Dr. Onyeike highlighted ongoing collaborations with Millennium Oil and Gas Company in Ukwa West LGA, as directed by State Governor Dr. Alex Otti.
The aim according to Onyeike, is to initiate developmental projects that will significantly benefit the host communities, ensuring that oil companies fulfill their responsibilities for the collective welfare of these areas.
Dr. Onyeike revealed that the Commission has completed over 11 water boreholes, primarily in Ukwa West and East LGA, to provide clean drinking water and reduce waterborne diseases. In terms of infrastructure, ASOPADEC has reconstructed the Umuokomiri road, Umuokwor Civic Hall, and classroom blocks at Owor Asa Community Primary School. Additionally, 160 open stalls at Orie Market, Umuajoha Obuzor Asa, have been completed, and the Asa Civic Centre is 80% finished, soon to be inaugurated by the State Governor.
On human capital development, Dr. Onyeike expressed satisfaction with the graduation of over 100 students from the Commission’s scholarship scheme. More than 100 students registered for the 2024 WAEC and JAMB are benefiting from the scheme for the 2025 academic year at Abia State University, Uturu.
Furthermore, the Commission is actively involved in healthcare and environmental initiatives within the host communities. It has sponsored an eye care medical outreach for Ukwa West LGA and funded the retrofitting of the eye care center at the General Hospital Okeikpe.
According to him, the Commission also undertakes regular refuse disposal, drainage desilting, and fumigation of selected schools in Ukwa West and East LGA.
Dr. Onyeike assured that ASOPADEC remains committed to supporting Governor Dr. Alex Otti’s developmental efforts for a new Abia, particularly in the oil and gas host communities and beyond.
