The executive and some members of the Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN), Abia State Chapter, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the General Manager of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC), Ven. Dr. Joshua Onyeike, in Umuahia.
The visit formed part of efforts to familiarize the association with ASOPADEC and its activities, as well as, explore areas of collaboration.
Speaking during the visit, the Vice Chairman of OMPAN, Comrade Chika Nwabueze, who led the delegation, commended the ASOPADEC boss for his exemplary leadership.
He noted that the association is seeking partnership with the commission to ensure its programmes and projects receive adequate visibility, leveraging OMPAN’s strong presence in the digital media space.
Nwabueze emphasized the need for closer collaboration, stating that OMPAN is willing to be actively involved in the commission’s activities by providing publicity and ensuring accurate dissemination of information to the public.
He also informed the General Manager that the association would be marking its 10th anniversary this year and expressed the hope of ASOPADEC’s participation in the celebration.
In his response, the ASOPADEC General Manager, Ven. Dr. Joshua Onyeike, appreciated the leadership of OMPAN for the visit and their willingness to partner with the commission.
He described the move as timely, noting that the commission has faced several negative narratives in the public space.
Onyeike expressed delight over the visit and commended the association for its proactive approach, noting that the partnership would help project accurate information about the commission’s activities, thereby, correcting misconceptions among the people.
He highlighted several interventions carried out by the commission, including rural electrification projects, construction of classroom blocks, healthcare facilities, and road development, particularly in oil-producing communities.
The ASOPADEC boss further revealed that since he assumed office, he has undertaken significant improvements within the commission, including the refurbishment of the office complex, upgrade of public facilities, and the acquisition of the land on which the office is situated, which was previously under lease.
He reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to collaborate with OMPAN and assured the association of its support where necessary.
Present at the meeting were, the Special Assistant, Engr Emeka Gberemako, Social Welfare Officer, Mrs Amarachi Isaac Nwachukwu, the Commission’s Information unit among others.
