Soludo Greenlights Full ANSOPADEC Operations, Approves Key Projects for Oil-Producing Communities

By Our Reporter

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has approved the full operationalisation of the Anambra State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (ANSOPADEC) and sanctioned critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving the welfare of oil-producing communities in Ogbaru Local Government Area.

The landmark approvals include the construction of the strategic Atani–Umuezerabia Road, as well as the establishment of a new primary school and a Primary Healthcare Centre in Umuezerabia, signaling what the state government describes as a renewed commitment to the sustainable development of host communities.

The Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Charles Ofoegbu, announced the developments during a meeting with stakeholders from Ogbaru at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka. The delegation was led by the traditional ruler of Ossomala, Igwe Victor Awogu.

According to Professor Ofoegbu, Governor Soludo has given approval for the full operationalisation of ANSOPADEC, in line with the law establishing the commission, to ensure oil-producing communities receive focused development and greater attention.

He also disclosed that the state government had approved the construction of the Atani–Umuezerabia Road, a vital link serving Umuezerabia, an oil-bearing community that hosts several oil wells.

In addition, Professor Ofoegbu, alongside the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Nomso Ebonwu, announced plans to build a primary school and a Primary Healthcare Centre in Umuezerabia. He noted that the procurement process for both projects was already at an advanced stage.

“Governor Soludo remains committed to the sustainable development of oil-producing communities and the overall transformation of Ogbaru,” Professor Ofoegbu assured the stakeholders.

The commissioner further urged leaders and stakeholders in Ogbaru to submit a comprehensive development proposal outlining the area’s priority needs. He emphasized that the proposal should include practical and technical recommendations for tackling the environmental and socio-economic challenges associated with oil exploration and production.

Responding on behalf of the delegation, the traditional ruler of Ossomala, Igwe Victor Awogu, speaking through the Secretary of the Ogbaru Summit Development Initiative, Honourable Emmanuel Ifeachor, called for stronger collaboration with the state government.

The monarch appealed for accelerated electrification across Ogbaru, improved road infrastructure, enhanced security, and equitable representation of host communities to ensure they receive the full benefits accruing from oil exploration activities.

The latest approvals are expected to boost infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development across Ogbaru, while reinforcing the Soludo administration’s efforts to improve living conditions in Anambra’s oil-producing communities.