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Delta State Forms 7-Man Committee for the 8th National Youth Games

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially established a seven-member Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming 8th National Youth Games (NYG). 

The event is scheduled to take place from September 10 to 20, 2024, in Asaba, the capital of Delta State.

In a statement released on Thursday, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, announced that Chief Solomon Ogba will serve as the Chairman of the committee.

The other members include Chief Tonobok Okowa, Chief Chinonye Aliyu Daphey, Chief Victor Onogagamue, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, Mr. Harrison Ocholor, and Mr. Festus Ohwojero, who will act as both a member and Secretary.

The primary responsibility of the LOC is to ensure the successful organization and execution of the 8th NYG, which promises to be a significant event for youth sports in Nigeria.

The committee will be tasked with coordinating various aspects of the games, including logistics, facilities, and athlete management.

In preparation for the games, a Joint Technical Meeting (JTM) has been scheduled for August 18-20, 2024.

This meeting aims to bring together various stakeholders to discuss and finalize the arrangements necessary for hosting the event.

Key topics on the agenda will include competition formats, venue preparations, and safety protocols to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

The establishment of this committee reflects the government’s commitment to promoting sports and youth development in the state.

As the date approaches, the LOC is expected to play a vital role in fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among young athletes from across the nation.

As Delta State gears up for this prestigious event, anticipation is building among the local community and sports enthusiasts alike.

The 8th National Youth Games is not only a platform for showcasing young talent but also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of athletes.

FUPRE Resource Centre to Drive Development in Ethiope East, Says Oborevwori

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, announced on Thursday that the establishment of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Resource Centre in Isiokolo will significantly enhance development within the Ethiope East Local Government Area.

During a courtesy visit from the Ovie of Agbon Kingdom, HRM Michael Omeru, CON, Ogurimerime, Ukori I, along with Agbon chiefs and FUPRE officials at Government House in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori praised Agbon Kingdom for its generous donation of 123.2 hectares of land to the university.

He emphasized the vital role of quality education in fostering community well-being.

While presenting the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for the land to the university’s management, the Governor highlighted that the C of O was issued at no cost, aligning with his administration’s commitment to meaningful development under the M.O.R.E Agenda.

“Delta State is recognized as a hub for higher education, a status that has been established over time. As Speaker of the State House of Assembly, I supported the creation of three universities because I understand the transformative power of education,” he stated.

“The acquisition of wealth means little without education. Upon learning of the kingdom’s land donation and their request for a fee waiver on the C of O, we acted promptly. We approved a waiver totaling N111.5 million and a ground rent of N18.4 million, allowing you to obtain the C of O at no cost.”

FUPRE is a specialized university that we greatly need in our community. Ethiope East, being an oil-producing local government, stands to benefit significantly from its establishment, as it will help stimulate local development. The research center is expected to bring substantial advancements to the region.

Additionally, in response to your request for internal roads and building facilities, we will provide assistance at the appropriate time. Your request has been duly noted.

Regarding FUPRE’s previous request for road improvements, I can confirm that the contract will soon be awarded, as the necessary groundwork has already been completed.

Earlier, HRM Michael Omeru, the Ovie of Agbon Kingdom, praised the governor for his remarkable achievements under the MORE Agenda and for his steadfast support of the approved Research Centre at Isiokolo.

He visited the Government House in Asaba to update the governor on the progress made by the kingdom to ensure the successful launch of the university’s Research Centre.

The Agbon monarch shared that his kingdom has generously donated a substantial area of land, measuring 123.2 hectares, to FUPRE. They have also applied for a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) in favor of the university.

He emphasized that the establishment of the Research Centre at Isiokolo would greatly enhance the governor’s vision for accelerated growth and development within the state.

Therefore, he appealed to the State Government for assistance in providing essential infrastructure, including the construction of internal roads on the donated land, two blocks of 12 classrooms each, an administrative building, and a 100-room hostel.

The monarch expressed confidence that the successful establishment of the FUPRE Research Centre in Isiokolo will significantly improve both the educational and economic prospects of the community.

He emphasized that this initiative will foster the development of Isiokolo as the local government headquarters and benefit the state overall, as it will provide meaningful employment opportunities for our many young people and support the growth of related businesses in the area.

During the visit, the Agbon monarch was joined by several dignitaries, including Engr. Bello Isah, the Chairman of the FUPRE Governing Council, Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Augustine Ogedegbe, the Chairman of Ethiope Local Government, Chief Brodericks Arigbodi, along with other traditional chiefs of the Agbon Kingdom and the university’s management team.

Delta State Moves Forward With New Minimum Wage Implementation

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Government has made significant progress in implementing the new minimum wage, instructing the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, and the Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, to engage in discussions with the State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) regarding its rollout across the state.

This announcement was made on Wednesday by the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, during a press briefing following the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House in Asaba.

Dr. Osuoza emphasized that the discussions between the government and labor representatives would focus on the necessary adjustments related to the new wage.

Additionally, the EXCO approved a payment of N3.55 billion to serve as counterpart funding for the 2024 Universal Basic Education Programme in the state. The council also appointed Obi Sunday Ubaka Ogboli as the Obi of Issele-Mkpitime in the Aniocha North Local Government Area.

Furthermore, the Information Commissioner revealed that the EXCO sanctioned several infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction of Ohoror-Bomadi Road, the construction of Olomoro-Igbide Road, and the second phase of the Emevor-Ivrogbo-Orogun Road. Other approved projects include Otekpo Road in Ellu, Idumu-Etiti Street with a spur to Market Road in Owere-Olubo, and the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of several roads throughout the state, including those in Uvwie Local Government Area and Sapele Local Government Area.

Several projects have received approval, including the development of internal roads and drainage systems in Kurutie, the second phase of the Obitobon-Elolo-Ajaokurogbo-Orubu Road in Ogidigben, and the upgrade of internal roads in Kurutie. Additionally, the Old Sapele Road to Amukpe, extending to the Ikwewu Community with a branch to Ayemidejor Close in Amukpe, as well as Okeye and Iyke Oputa Street in Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area, and the Issele-Azagba-Otulu road in Aniocha North and South Local Government Areas, have also been approved.

The Commissioner noted that Governor Oborevwori expressed concern over the widespread hardships faced by citizens and has instructed the Commissioner for Agriculture and the Chief Job Creation Officer to develop initiatives aimed at alleviating these challenges, particularly for the youth throughout the state.

During a press briefing, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), emphasized that these approvals reflect Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to meaningful development, impacting 23 out of the 25 local government areas in the state.

Regarding the approval for the reclamation of gully erosion sites along the Okpanam-Ibusa bypass Road, Comrade Reuben Izeze, the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), stated that the initiative will allow the government to restore areas affected by erosion, ensuring the longevity of the newly constructed road.

In another update from the post-Exco briefing, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the Commissioner for Health, announced that the state Exco has approved the acquisition of two Computerized Tomography (CT) scanning machines, designated for the Central Hospital in Warri and the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara.

Dr. Onojaeme highlighted the importance of this medical equipment, which is essential for diagnosing various diseases and internal injuries, emphasizing that the CT scans will serve the health needs of all residents in Delta State.

Rumoured Eviction: Okobaba Timber Dealers Urge Sanwo-Olu to Involve All Stakeholders

 

 

*Says The Victimization of Some Contractors By Lagos State Govt Should Stop

 

By Sunday Apah

A coalition of timber dealers, including the Ifesowapo Timber Contractors Association, Ijaw Timber Contractors Association, Towing Vessels Association of Nigeria, Timber Sawyers Association of Nigeria and Timber Pullers Association of Nigeria, has appealed to the Lagos State Government to ensure the proper management of timber in the waterways before taking any action regarding the rumoured eviction of the Okobaba Timber Business.

In a press statement signed by Mr. Akinte Gabriel, High Chief Cyrus Olopele, Mr. Oshodi Wasiu, Alhaji Taiwo Ahmed Quadri, and Mr. Monday Akuboh, the group expressed that their appeal stems from concerns about the potential eviction of the Okobaba Timber Business.

The statement highlighted that the state government’s approach has neglected several key stakeholders in the industry, allowing only one association to represent the interests of the timber dealers at the expense of others. They emphasized that any agreements should be made collectively with all stakeholders involved.

According to the statement, “The various groups in the timber industry did not authorize any association to act on their behalf. Anyone who claims to represent us does so for their own interests.”

They further criticized the government’s lack of prioritization of inclusiveness, which they believe is essential for fostering a peaceful business environment. “The harmonious co-existence among stakeholders has characterized the timber business in this part of Lagos for nearly ninety years.”

The Okobaba Timber Business is recognized as the largest timber market in West Africa, originating from contractors across different states, formerly known as Protectorates and Regions.

The issue of ownership regarding the business premises was never a point of contention, as all stakeholders and their roles were respected. The success of the industry relies on inclusive harmony among all parties involved.

Currently, the situation is quite the opposite, as the involvement of the Lagos State government has fostered a divisive and exclusionary atmosphere.

Through mutual understanding, the state government and all stakeholders entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the relocation of the Okobaba Timber Industry to a new site at Timber Villa in Agbowa/Ikosi/Owu.

 

However, the government has designated the villa for a single association, disadvantaging other stakeholders.

It has come to the attention of the Towing Vessel Association that the government has instructed the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to direct the Marine Police to halt the transport of timber primarily sourced from neighboring states. This directive has already been enforced in Epe, affecting shipments destined for the Okobaba Timber Market (Ebute Metta) without prior notice.

As a result, many businesses are now in jeopardy. The financial impact of losing their hard-earned resources has not been taken into account.

Timber that has been halted without prior notification is left to deteriorate, causing significant losses for the owners.

These circumstances necessitate a call for all aggrieved stakeholders to convene a general meeting to discuss and propose lasting solutions to the ongoing crisis in the timber industry.

We urge the government to instruct all contractors involved in dredging activities to cease operations.

Furthermore, the government should respect the court proceedings currently underway in the Federal High Court in Lagos. We call on the state government to adopt a supportive role and acknowledge the challenges faced by all citizens.

“The government should not, under any circumstances, intimidate members of perceived adversaries, as is often seen in today’s business environment. The demands of associations in court should be given due considerate crewion.

In addition, the government and its allies must cease unwarranted arrests and the use of force to intimidate and humiliate individuals into compliance, as such actions undermine peaceful coexistence in the business environment.

We sincerely appeal to the state government and all stakeholders to pursue a path of peace in order to maintain a healthy and constructive relationship.”

Ughievwen Monarch Urges Stricter Regulations to Combat Engineering Impostors

By Sunday Apah

The Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, Owhawha II, has called for the implementation of effective laws to tackle impostors in the engineering sector, aiming to address the increasing incidents of building collapses nationwide.

During a meeting with the National President of the Society of Engineers, Engineer Magret Oguntanla, at his palace in Otu-Jeremi, the headquarters of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, the monarch expressed his concerns.

Welcoming the National President and her team, the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, Owhawha II, expressed dismay at the rising number of building collapses in the country. He questioned why property developers opt to hire unqualified individuals as engineers to oversee construction projects.

Emphasizing the importance of strict penalties for impostors in the engineering field in line with existing laws, the Okobaro highlighted the significant role of government in curbing building collapses.

He noted that many collapsed buildings resulted from the use of substandard materials by unqualified engineers. He urged the leadership of the Nigeria Society of Engineers to engage with authorities at all levels to mandate the employment of only COREN-certified engineers for project supervision nationwide.

The Ughievwen monarch underscored the tragic loss of lives caused by building collapses and urged the Nigeria Society of Engineers to establish monitoring mechanisms to complement government initiatives in reducing such incidents across the country.

The monarch encouraged young people, especially students, to cultivate a habit of reading and consider studying engineering. He emphasized the essential role that engineers play in the advancement of every developed society.

In response, the National President of the Society of Engineers, Magret Oguntanla, expressed gratitude for the wise guidance and support of the Okobaro, which has fostered the growth of engineering practices in the kingdom.

Oguntanla praised Owhawha II as a symbol of peace and unity, highlighting the successful partnership between the NSE and the monarch that has brought about significant improvements in the socio-economic well-being of the people of Ughievwen Kingdom.

Accompanying Owhawha II during the visit were some members of the Ughievwen Traditional Council of Chiefs.

Udu Council Boss, Oyibode Urged to Ensure a Fair Election for the Owhase Community President-General Seat

By Sunday Apah

The Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, has been called upon to prevail on the Caretaker Committee of Owhase Community, led by Chief Johnbull Phophen, to conduct a free, fair, and credible election to prevent potential conflicts within the community.

In a letter signed by Austin Egoruomare Nyekigbe, Esq, the legal representative of Mr. Peter Victor Efegbere, and addressed to the council Chairman, it was emphasized that holding a transparent election is crucial to maintaining peace and order.

The letter highlighted concerns about alleged attempts by the Chief Johnbull Phophen-led caretaker committee to delay the election and install his rival, Mr. David Elohor Efegbere, in violation of the community’s constitution.

The correspondence stated, “It is imperative that the tenure of Mr. John Adunu as the President-General of Owhase Community ended on the 6th of January, 2024. Following this, a 5-Man Caretaker Committee, led by Chief Johnbull Phophen, was appointed by the Owhase Community to oversee the community’s affairs and organize elections for leadership positions within a two-month period.

“In March 2024, the tenure of the Caretaker Committee was extended until the 16th of June, 2024. Additionally, in January 2024, leadership positions were allocated to various streets and families within the community, with the roles of President-General and Assistant Financial Secretary being assigned to the Efegbere sub-family of the larger Omarayearue family.

“Our client is a member of the Efegbere subfamily of the larger Omarayearue family in Owhase Community, Udu Local Government Area, Delta State. Due to this connection, two sons of the Efegbere subfamily, Mr. Peter Victor Efegbere (our client) and Mr. David Elohor Efegbere, expressed interest in contesting for the position of President-General of Owhase Community.

“The duo purchased nomination forms, underwent screening, and received clearance. They were then informed by the Elders’ Council of Owhase Community that the election date would be communicated to them.

“However, our client was not given a specific election date. As a result, the leadership dispute caused unrest in the community, prompting a report to the Nigeria Police Station, Ovwian/Aladja Divisional Headquarters. This action aimed to prevent a breakdown of law and order and ensure peace, justice, and equity when the Caretaker Committee, led by Chief Johnbull Phophen, failed to conduct a smooth, transparent, and credible election for the position of President-General.

“As a result of these events, in July 2024, the Divisional Police Officer of the Nigeria Police Station, Ovwian/Aladja Divisional Headquarters, instructed the Caretaker Committee to organize a fair and credible election for the parties within thirty (30) days. Despite this directive, the Caretaker Committee has yet to conduct the election.

“To date, no election has taken place, and no candidate has been elected as the President-General of Owhase Community.

“We have received reliable information that the Caretaker Committee, headed by Chief Johnbull Phophen at the behest of Mr. David Elohor Efegbere, has finalized plans to install Mr. David Elohor Efegbere as the President-General of Owhase Community without holding an election, going against the wishes of the people and the clear provisions of the Community’s Constitution.

“Our client has informed us that, in pursuit of their dubious goals, Mr. David Elohor Efegbere led a group of armed individuals to various Elders and members of the Owhase Community, pressuring and intimidating them into swearing him in as the President-General. These individuals have been causing chaos in the community.

“Our client and their supporters feel wronged, and if the leadership dispute is not resolved properly, it may escalate into lawlessness, hostility, violence, and loss of life and property in Owhase Community.

“In light of the above, we urge you to intervene in this matter and instruct the Caretaker Committee led by Chief Johnbull Phophen to organize a transparent, fair, and credible election between the involved parties to prevent further unrest, violence, bloodshed, and loss of life and property in Owhase Community and Udu Kingdom at large.”

Governor Oborevwori Urges NDDC Management to Prioritize Addressing Abandoned Projects

By Sunday Apah 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday, expressed his commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to deliver sustainable large-scale projects that will improve the socio-economic well-being of the people of Delta State.

During a meeting in Asaba with the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Sam Ogbuku, and his team, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of addressing the numerous abandoned NDDC projects in the state and the region.

He affirmed his administration’s willingness to collaborate with the NDDC to finalize existing projects and initiate new ones.

Governor Oborevwori praised Ogbuku for his efforts to enhance transparency and accountability within the NDDC, urging increased engagement with stakeholders to align development strategies.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by the NDDC in completing projects and highlighted instances where his administration had successfully completed projects, such as the Bomadi road bridge.

Regarding ongoing projects like Sector C 2, which involves the Ughelli to Asaba route, Governor Oborevwori noted that even though these are federal roads, his administration is actively involved in their completion.

He cited examples like the DSC and Effurun roundabouts as federal projects that his government is also working on, underscoring the commitment to addressing infrastructure needs in the region.

Governor Oborevwori further highlighted the proactive approach taken by his administration in addressing infrastructure projects, noting the engagement of Julius Berger for road projects essential to the daily lives of the state’s residents, despite these roads being federally managed.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining and improving infrastructure for the benefit of all road users in the region.

He underscored the significance of partnerships, not only with multinational corporations but also with state governments, as crucial for successful project implementation.

The Governor stressed the need for alignment between the NDDC and the governors of the Niger Delta region to facilitate coordinated planning and avoid duplication of efforts in project budgeting.

Governor Oborevwori recounted an incident where a contractor falsely claimed credit for a road project completed by the state government, leading to confusion and unnecessary expenditure.

He emphasized the necessity of clear communication and collaboration to prevent such occurrences in the future, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately and contractors are held accountable for their work.

In an effort to promote transparency and accountability, Governor Oborevwori pledged to inform the NDDC of any state interventions in projects within their jurisdiction to prevent contractors from fraudulently collecting payments for incomplete work.

He cited examples such as the Ugono road, where the state government stepped in to complete a stalled project, demonstrating a commitment to delivering quality infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

He also emphasized the importance of responsible contract awarding, pointing out that awarding contracts without adequate financial backing can lead to contractor payment delays and project abandonment due to frustration.

He stressed the need for effective collaboration between the state government and the NDDC to ensure successful project execution.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of the NDDC as the oldest interventionist agency in the country, Governor Oborevwori highlighted the region’s significant contribution to the nation’s oil production and emphasized the necessity of tangible benefits for the region.

He cited challenges with the East-West road and urged the NDDC to consider providing interim solutions to address pressing infrastructure needs in the region.

Governor Oborevwori encouraged a focus on impactful projects that would leave a lasting legacy in the region, underscoring the importance of partnership and collaboration for the mutual success of the region and its people.

He reiterated the state’s commitment to working closely with the NDDC to drive progress and development in the region.

He called for enhanced project monitoring by the NDDC to ensure accountability and value for money in project delivery.

He expressed Delta State’s readiness to collaborate with the NDDC on critical projects that require additional support, offering to either take over or engage in joint ventures to facilitate project implementation for the benefit of the state’s residents.

The Governor, reaffirmed the state’s willingness to engage in meaningful partnerships with the NDDC to advance the region’s development goals and serve the best interests of the local communities.

Governor Oborevwori elaborated on his recent decision to take charge of the Ohoror-Bomadi road, emphasizing its crucial role in facilitating access to the Akugbene road, a necessary route for further development initiatives in the region.

Dr. Ogbuku earlier articulated the purpose of his visit to Delta, highlighting the discussions on mutually beneficial topics between the NDDC and the Delta State Government.

Recognizing Delta as the leading oil-producing state in Nigeria, Dr. Ogbuku indicated that the state would receive a significant allocation from the recently approved NDDC budget.

Furthermore, Dr. Ogbuku outlined the NDDC’s commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable organization that serves the interests of the people of the Niger Delta region.

He sought collaboration with the Delta State Government and Chevron for the construction of the Omadino-Okerenkoko-Escravos Road and associated bridges, noting the potential economic benefits this project would bring to Delta State upon completion.

Dr. Ogbuku also mentioned the NDDC’s initiative to create a database of Niger Delta youths to identify opportunities aligned with their skills and interests for growth prospects.

Additionally, he announced that KPMG had been tasked with designing a Corporate Governance Structure for the NDDC, underscoring the agency’s commitment to implementing robust governance practices for enhanced effectiveness and transparency.

Quality Projects: Delta State Implements Engineering Regulations Monitoring Program

By Sunday Apah 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, announced on Thursday that the state has implemented the engineering regulations monitoring program to improve the quality of project delivery in the state.

After successfully implementing the program, the state established the State Technical Committee and Delta State Expatriate Monitoring Committee in line with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering (COREN) Act to oversee the quality of projects.

Governor Oborevwori made this revelation during a meeting with the President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, and her delegation at the Government House in Asaba.

In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori commended Oguntala, the 34th President and the first female President of the NSE, noting the significant progress made in the engineering profession in Nigeria over the past two decades.

He stated, “In Delta State, we have formally implemented the Engineering Regulations Monitoring Program by establishing the State Technical Committee and the Delta State Expatriate Monitoring Committee in compliance with the COREN Act to ensure project quality monitoring.”

“I am confident that the Engineering Regulations Monitoring Program will reinforce the existing quality control measures and promote engineering practices in the state.”

Governor Oborevwori also highlighted the state’s commitment to regularly organizing training and specialized courses for engineers in the civil service to keep them updated with the latest knowledge and skills.

“We prioritize capacity building, which is why we appoint qualified engineers to serve as Directors and Permanent Secretaries in relevant departments,” he added.

“The engineering profession in Nigeria has made significant strides in the last two decades, and I am pleased to acknowledge that our local engineers can compete effectively with their foreign counterparts,” Governor Oborevwori stated.

“Our administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards substandard work, which is why we have engaged a reputable company like Julius Berger Plc to carry out projects including three flyovers, a cloverleaf, pedestrian bridges, and road expansion projects in the Warri and Effurun metropolis.”

Earlier, Engr. Oguntala commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the developmental achievements of his administration, noting that they were in the state for the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the society.

Oguntala emphasized the importance of the state government continuing its efforts in capacity building for engineers through focused training programs to enhance their skills and expertise. She also highlighted the readiness of the NSE to collaborate with the government on training and retraining initiatives for engineers in the state.

In recognition of the governor’s approval of the Grade Level Nine (GL 9) entry point for engineers in the Delta State Civil Service, Oguntala recommended that qualified engineers be appointed to lead engineering-related Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state.

“The implementation of an improved salary structure for engineers demonstrates your administration’s commitment to fostering an environment where engineering professionals can excel and make meaningful contributions to the state’s development,” she added.

Delta State Govt. Launches Reconstruction of Health Centre, Schools in Okuama

By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Government has initiated the rebuilding process of the Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state, which was devastated following the tragic killing of 17 Army officers and soldiers in the area.

During a meeting with the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, led by Chairman and Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe 1, and the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Worldwide, led by President General Chief Ese Gam, at the Government House in Asaba on Thursday, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori made the announcement.

Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Urhobo Traditional Rulers for their visit and their donation of food and relief supplies to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Okuama community.

He mentioned that the state government has already awarded contracts for the construction of a health center and six classroom blocks for Primary and Secondary Schools in Okuama. He also mentioned that the IDPs would be able to return to their homeland soon.

“I am delighted to welcome Your Royal Majesties and the leadership of UPU this afternoon. I am grateful for your unwavering support, which has helped me to become the Governor of Delta State.

“I want to express my appreciation for the important role you have played and continue to play. The recent Local Government election was notably peaceful, thanks to the paternal guidance and support provided by your esteemed group to this administration,” Governor Oborevwori stated.

We would like to express our gratitude for your visit to the Okuama IDPs camp and the neighboring village. Accessible only by boat, you generously provided relief materials during your visit.

Efforts are being made to restore peace to the area. The establishment of the IDPs camp, as well as the awarding of contracts for a health center and six classroom blocks for primary and secondary schools, demonstrate our commitment. Notably, these contracts were awarded to local residents of Okuama.

The residents will soon be able to return to Okuama, and we rely on your continued cooperation and support. Your guidance and advice are invaluable to us, as you are like fathers to us.

The involvement of traditional leaders is crucial in addressing recent security challenges. Your assistance in providing information to security agencies is vital in resolving these issues.

Rest assured that we are working closely with security agencies to maintain peace in the state,” the governor assured.

Earlier, Sideso, represented by the Vice Chairman of the Council and Ovie of Arhavwarien Kingdom, HRM Solomon Okukeren III, visited to express appreciation and discuss important matters affecting the Urhobo nation and Delta State.

The Urhobo monarchs praised Oborevwori for his accomplishments during his first year as Governor of Delta State. They commended him for successfully resolving the longstanding conflicts between Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities, as well as the issues between Okuama and Okoloba.

Odogu Urges Grassroots Support For Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. Agenda

By Sunday Apah

Hon. Emakpor Odogu, the Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Community Development, has called upon the residents of Isoko South Local Government Area to rally behind the governor’s M.O.R.E. Agenda for the advancement of the state.

Speaking at the annual general conference of the Emede community in Isoko South, Odogu stressed the importance of grassroots backing for the governor’s initiatives.

He asserted that Governor Oborevwori’s leadership is a product of divine ordination, and he is dedicated to serving Delta State during this critical period.

Odogu commended the governor’s unwavering commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering human capital development throughout the state.

Furthermore, he underscored the dedication of his own office to partnering with community leaders, traditional rulers, youth organizations, women, and the private sector to advance the M.O.R.E. Agenda.

He also called upon influential individuals from the Isoko community, both locally and internationally, to actively participate in promoting community development in Delta State.

Hon. Comrade Warri Ovoke Friday, the Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Council in Delta State, and HRM Johnson Egbo, the Ovie of Emede kingdom (Ewhiri I I), encouraged Isoko residents and all Deltans to support the governor’s positive vision for the state.

They urged notable members of the Isoko community, whether residing at home or in the diaspora, to play an active role in the development of the Isoko ethnic nation.

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