The Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), under the able leadership of its Managing Director, Chief Austin Onyedebelu, is currently executing a broad range of transformational projects aimed at improving the lives of residents across the state’s oil-producing communities, thanks to the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.
In the area of education, ISOPADEC is constructing 24 outstanding primary schools, with 19 additional new ones approved to ensure greater access to quality foundational education. In addition to the infrastructure, the Commission has commenced large-scale distribution of exercise books and learning materials to pupils in these communities, ensuring that children have the tools needed to learn and thrive. These projects, scattered across various communities, are designed to bridge the educational gap and provide modern learning facilities for children in underserved areas.
Healthcare delivery has also received a significant boost with the ongoing construction of a 20-bed hospital in Ohaji/Egbema. The facility, once completed, will provide accessible and quality medical care for residents of the region, reducing travel time and healthcare costs for families.
In a groundbreaking move towards youth empowerment and digital transformation, ISOPADEC is fully sponsoring over 200 young people from the oil-producing areas to undergo specialized training in Europe in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. This initiative places the Commission at the forefront of digital innovation, equipping Imo youths with global skills to compete in the 21st-century economy.
Furthermore, arrangements are currently underway for 250 other youths to begin intensive technical and vocational training at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI). Once deployed, these young beneficiaries will receive world-class instruction in oil and gas operations, equipment handling, and industrial safety, opening the door to sustainable career opportunities in the energy sector.
To address water scarcity and improve public health, the Commission has embarked on the rehabilitation of 45 water projects across all ISOPADEC communities. These projects are designed to restore clean and safe water supply to homes, schools, and health centres, thereby improving hygiene and reducing waterborne diseases.
Stakeholder engagement remains a cornerstone of the Commission’s development strategy. Through consistent and inclusive dialogues involving traditional rulers, Presidents-General (PGs), youth leaders, and women groups, ISOPADEC ensures that community needs are properly understood and integrated into its development blueprint.
Additionally, ISOPADEC under Chief Onyedebelu has maintained a solid track record of prompt salary payments to its staff, ensuring zero arrears and boosting workforce morale. The MD has also instituted an open-door policy that encourages transparency, accountability, and open communication between management, staff, and community stakeholders.
In a landmark move for staff welfare, enrollment of 315 employees of ISOPADEC is currently ongoing, a part of His Excellency’s Healthcare initiative to ensure optimal health for Imolites. This scheme guarantees access to quality healthcare services for employees and demonstrates the Commission’s deep commitment to the wellbeing of its workforce.
Speaking on the strides made so far, Chief Austin Onyedebelu noted: “We are not just building infrastructure, we are building hope, capacity, and a future where our oil-producing communities can thrive. With the support of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration, ISOPADEC is redefining development through integrity, inclusion, and impact.”
These far-reaching initiatives reflect the Commission’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, people-centered governance, and community empowerment under the Renewed Hope agenda.
