Aradel Holdings Honoured For Exemplary Community Development Initiatives

In a moment of well-deserved recognition, Aradel Holdings has once again proven its commitment to impactful community engagement. On Monday 5th May 2025, the Southern Youth Foundation of Nigeria (SYF) honoured Engr. Adegbite Falade, Managing Director of Aradel Holdings, and Mr. Blessyn Okpowo, the company’s Community Affairs Manager, for their outstanding leadership in supporting host communities across the Niger Delta.

The award presented celebrated Aradel’s role as one of the few oil exploration companies leading by example in full compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Aradel has been consistent in meeting its 3% Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) funding obligation and has rolled out numerous development projects to uplift its host communities.

Speaking at the event, Comrade Emeni Ibe, President of the Southern Youth Foundation, described Aradel as a “prime compliant company” and applauded its transparency and dedication to community welfare.

 

“We urge Aradel to continue the good works they’ve been doing within their host communities,” Emeni said.

Receiving the awards on behalf of the MD and himself, Mr. Blessyn Okpowo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the SYF for acknowledging the visible impact of Aradel’s efforts.

 

“To us, our host communities are not just stakeholders—they are our partners in progress,” he remarked.

 

He went on to outline some of the company’s ongoing and upcoming projects:

A new cottage hospital approved for Ogbele Community, with construction set to begin once designs are finalized.

Renovation of Ogbele Secondary School, currently underway to improve learning conditions for students.

A 4-kilometre road project being constructed to improve access and connectivity within the community.

An upcoming community health outreach, focused on ensuring the health and wellbeing of residents.

“These initiatives reflect our core belief that meaningful development starts with listening to and prioritising the needs of our communities,” Okpowo added.

 

With its consistent track record of impactful projects and responsible practices, Aradel Holdings continues to set the gold standard in community relations in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.