Chief Festus Ochonogor, DESOPADEC Managing Director/CEO
In a renewed effort to curb rising drug abuse and cultism among youths, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has launched intensified sensitisation programmes across secondary schools in the Ndokwa Nation.
Led by DESOPADEC Managing Director/CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor, the initiative visited Ebologu Grammar School and St. Kizito College in Utagba-Uno on November 28, 2025. Students received practical guidance on the dangers of substance abuse, the long-term effects of cultism, and strategies to resist negative peer influence.
Mrs Chinenye Ezonfade, Head of Community Development and Public Enlightenment, noted that the campaign aligns with state leadership’s mandate to promote youth development and safeguard adolescent well-being. Facilitators Ms Elizabeth Odisu and Ms Honeywell Eburajolor led interactive sessions addressing peer pressure, emotional challenges, and societal consequences of addiction.
Students were encouraged to embrace discipline, positive influences, and purposeful living, while school authorities expressed gratitude for the timely and impactful outreach. Ochonogor urged pupils to take the campaigns seriously, reminding them that “each of you carries a unique gift—your families, community, and our State are depending on you to rise and shine.”
DESOPADEC reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining school sensitisation programmes to foster healthier, informed communities and responsible youth.
