By Nwanneka Okechukwu
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has approved the operationalization of the Anambra State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (ANSOPADEC) in line with the law establishing the commission.
The State Executive Council also approved the construction of the road linking Atani Community to Umuezerabia Community in Ogbaru Local Government Area, where several oil wells are located.
The Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof Charles Ofoegbu, disclosed this during a meeting with Ogbaru stakeholders at his office in the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka on July 30.
The stakeholders’ delegation was led by the traditional ruler of Ossomala Community, Igwe Victor Awogu, who sought stronger collaboration with the state government on development initiatives.
Prof Ofoegbu, alongside the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Nomso Ebonwu, also announced plans to establish a primary school and a Primary Healthcare Centre at Umuezerabia Community.
Ofoegbu revealed that the procurement process for both projects had reached an advanced stage, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and social services in the area.
The commissioner urged Ogbaru stakeholders to submit a comprehensive memorandum to Governor Soludo, outlining their developmental priorities and technical recommendations for addressing challenges associated with oil exploration and production.
He assured them that the Soludo administration remains committed to the sustainable development of Ogbaru and ensuring that oil-producing communities receive the attention they deserve.
Speaking through the Secretary of the Ogbaru Summit Development Initiative, Hon Emmanuel Ifeachor, Igwe Awogu commended the government’s efforts and appealed for support in rural electrification, road infrastructure, improved security, and adequate representation of host communities in the benefits accruing from oil and gas activities.
*Nwanneka Okechukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
