By Elohor Foghola/ Elizabeth Oduje
The Executive Director of Projects on the board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, has been honoured by Officials of Nigeria Magazine as its Outstanding Director of the Year, in recognition of his dedication to transparency, accountability, and good governance in service to his people.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at DESOPADEC’s head office in Warri to celebrate public officials who exemplify excellence in service delivery in their different fields.
Dr. Okorodudu was recognised for his transformational leadership and for fostering greater trust among the people he serves as the new face of transformation in Delta State.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Okorodudu expressed his appreciation to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, as well as the management and staff of the Directorate of Projects, for their warm reception upon his assumption of office.
He further pledged his continued commitment to delivering improved and sustainable service, stating, “It is my hope that God will enable me to perform even more effectively and to support the entire team for the greater good of mankind and the glory of God.”
Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Emah Okon, Editor-in-Chief of Officials Nigeria Magazine, commended Dr. Okorodudu for the award, noting that the publication aims to celebrate patriotic Nigerians who make a positive impact on society, directly or indirectly.
“We are here today to honour Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu’s outstanding performance. He has performed exceptionally well, and we encourage him to continue in service to his people. We are proud of his achievements and wish him continued good health and God’s guidance as he strives to do even more for the people of Delta State.”
Some members of the Directorate of Projects also shared their tributes about Dr. Okorodudu’s leadership. The Head of Utility Department, Mr. Festus Ifowodo, described Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu as “a man of great ideas, a moving encyclopaedia” whose portfolio is not just for the people but is filled with innovative solutions.
He further commended him as “a very friendly person and a disciplinarian who comes to work early and ensures that no files are left unattended, he treats them as they come in. It’s a good thing that you came all the way from afar to celebrate him with this award. He truly deserves even more.”
Engr. Mrs Anota Rita said, “He is a leader who shows kindness, humility, and understanding. His doors are always open to everyone, and this resonates positively within the directorate.”
The Head of Housing Department, QS Williams Oyimi, added, “Dr. Okorodudu is a workaholic and a man of action. He not only sets goals but follows through to make sure we achieve them. We are very grateful to have him as our boss. We pray that you will be in the Nigerian senate.’’
Engr. Andrew Edafe also spoke warmly of Dr. Okorodudu’s leadership. He described him as a competent man for the job. He is someone who is the first to arrive at the office and the last to leave, yet always finds time for everyone. “He is a call away and makes time for us, no matter how busy he is”.
It can be recalled that Chief Dr. Okorodudu previously held several key positions, including Chairman of the Board of Directors of Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation, publishers of The Pointer Newspapers; Commissioner for Commerce and Industry; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Delta State; and Chairman of the State Scholarship Board.
He also served as Special Project Director for the upgrade of 12 selected schools; Special Assistant to the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs; Member of the Management Board of the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi; Zonal Organising Secretary, South – South, PDP Acting State Chairman in Edo State; PDP State Publicity Secretary, Delta State, Political Adviser to the Speaker and later Chief of Staff to the immediate past Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, who is now the Governor of the State.
