The Executive Director of Projects DESOPADEC, Chief Dr Ebenezer Okorodudu (left), and Lady Judith Nwachukwu Chairperson NASME during a courtesy visit at DESOPADEC headquarters Warri.
By Elohor Foghola
The Executive Director of Projects at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Ebenezer Okorodudu, has emphasized the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in driving economic growth.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) Delta Chapter at the DESOPADEC corporate office in Warri, Okorodudu reaffirmed that SMEs are essential to the economic prosperity of any society.
In his address, Okorodudu commended the Chairperson of NASME Delta, Lady Judith Nwachukwu, and her team for their visit.
He shared his insights as a former Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, highlighting his awareness of the association’s activities.
He described SMEs as the “engine room of economic growth” and acknowledged their significant contribution to Nigeria’s GDP.
“The SME sector is a key driver of economic growth. It is especially critical to the development of our oil-producing communities, as it generates employment opportunities, particularly for our youth, and fosters grassroots prosperity,” Okorodudu stated.
He emphasized that the growth of SMEs helps reduce social unrest and vices in the region, thus contributing to peace and stability.
Okorodudu further stressed that the government has a crucial role to play in creating a conducive environment for SMEs to thrive.
“The collaboration between entrepreneurs and government is vital. Together, we can chart a course where the success of SMEs is synonymous with the progress of the entire nation,” he added.
The DESOPADEC Director also urged NASME to direct their formal requests for support to the Managing Director of the Commission.
Earlier, Lady Judith Nwachukwu, while congratulating Okorodudu on his appointment as the Director of Projects, expressed the purpose of their visit—to seek the support and partnership of DESOPADEC in strengthening SMEs in Delta State.
She appealed to the Executive Director to collaborate with NASME in hosting the upcoming International Women’s Day event scheduled for March 8, 2025.
She said the meeting emphasized the growing importance of SME support in Delta State, with both government and entrepreneurs aiming for shared growth and development across the region.
