His Majesty Odjaberen, Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, JP, FoD, the traditional ruler of Ughievwen Kingdom, has congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on the occasion of Delta State’s 34th anniversary.
In a statement issued through the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Akpogbemre Shaire, the monarch expressed his appreciation for the governor’s leadership and commitment to the state’s development.
His Majesty Odjaberen, Dr Egbi also congratulated Rt. Hon. Rev, Francis Ejiroghene Waive, member, representing Ughell North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal constituency, in the House of Representatives, and Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama, the representative for Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The monarch specifically highlighted the significance of appointing an Ughievwen son, Hon. Reuben Izeze as Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), acknowledging that it has boosted the representation of Ughievwen Kingdom in government affairs.
He also praised the inclusion of several Ughievwen sons and daughters in significant positions within the state government, recognizing their potential to contribute positively to Delta’s progress.
In his statement, the monarch noted that under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, the state has made substantial strides in development.
He emphasized that the governor’s focus on infrastructure and governance reforms has moved Delta State forward, creating a foundation for sustained growth and prosperity.
The monarch called on Deltans to support the governor in his drive to take the state to the next level with his M.O.R.E. Agenda.
Chief Solomon Arenyeka, JP, the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, has congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Delta State’s 34th anniversary.
In a statement issued through his Media Assistant, Olorogun Sunday Apah, Arenyeka commended the governor for steering the state onto a path of rapid development under the M.O.R.E Agenda.
Arenyeka lauded Oborevwori for prioritizing infrastructure, governance reforms, and citizen empowerment.
He noted that the governor’s leadership has reoriented Delta State’s development trajectory, delivering tangible progress across multiple sectors.
The former PDP State chairman emphasized that the state’s ongoing projects and reforms are a testament to the administration’s commitment to more inclusive growth.
Highlighting major achievements attributed to Oborevwori’s administration, Arenyeka pointed to the completion of several critical road and bridge projects inherited by the current government, as well as the commissioning of landmark infrastructure works.
He named flyovers, upgraded transportation corridors, and improved urban connectivity as visible indicators of the state’s thriving development agenda.
The APC Chieftain also drew attention to the government’s programs aimed at youth empowerment, healthcare, and education.
He noted ongoing efforts to create job opportunities, provide scholarships, and support entrepreneurship, all of which are designed to diversify Delta’s economy and reduce unemployment.
Arenyeka asserted that these initiatives reflect the administration’s insistence on sustainable economic growth.
Arenyeka expressed confidence in Oborevwori’s ability to sustain momentum and deliver more for Deltans.
He urged Deltans to support the governor’s MORE Agenda and to participate actively in the state’s development process.
He prayed for peace, unity, and continued progress as Delta marks another year of its existence.
As Delta State observed its 34th anniversary, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged residents to stay united, peaceful, and dedicated to forging a brighter and more prosperous future for the state.
Speaking during a special thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel in Asaba, the governor expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, mercy, and faithfulness since Delta’s creation on August 27, 1991.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Oborevwori described the anniversary as both a tradition and a pledge of gratitude for 34 years of resilience, progress, and unity.
He paid tribute to Delta’s founding fathers, past leaders, civil servants, and citizens whose sacrifices helped shape Delta into what he called “a symbol of diversity, academic excellence, and human capital development.”
“Unity is the foundation of our progress, and our diversity is our greatest strength. I urge all Deltans to continue fostering peace, fairness, and brotherhood,” the governor stated.
In outlining his administration’s achievements under the MORE Agenda, now in its second year, Oborevwori noted the completion of several inherited road and bridge projects and the launch of landmark infrastructure, including flyovers at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, DSC Roundabout, Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, and Uromi Junction in Agbor.
For riverine communities, he said projects such as the Ayakoromo Bridge and the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Kokodiagbene road were being prioritized to boost the blue economy, improve connectivity, and create jobs.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment through scholarships, skills training, and entrepreneurship support, while also increasing investment in healthcare and education. Primary health care centers are being upgraded with modern equipment, and free medical services for pregnant women and children under five continue. He also noted ongoing efforts to strengthen artisanal and vocational institutions to bolster human capital development.
“Thanksgiving unlocks divine blessings. As we celebrate 34 years of Delta, we dedicate our future to God, trusting Him for prosperity, peace, and progress,” Oborevwori quoted from Psalm 107:1.
He thanked his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly; his cabinet; the judiciary; civil servants; and the people of Delta for their trust and support, stressing that the mandate given to him in 2023 remains the strongest motivation to deliver more.
In his sermon titled “Forget Not All His Benefits,” the Chaplain of Government House Asaba, Venerable Charles Osemenam, reminded Deltans of the peace, development, and purposeful leadership Delta has enjoyed since its creation. He urged sustained support and prayers for Governor Oborevwori.
Venerable Osemenam also described Delta as a home of sports, education, infrastructure, oil exploration, and other blessings, urging citizens to remain stakeholders in the state’s Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.
The thanksgiving service was attended by top government officials, political leaders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil servants, and other dignitaries who joined in prayers for Delta State’s peace and progress.
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Delta on the state’s 34th anniversary, pledging a promising future under his leadership.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Asaba, through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori reflected on the 34 years since Delta State’s creation as a testament to resilience, unity, and progress, despite numerous challenges.
He acknowledged the efforts of previous leaders, traditional authorities, community heads, and the populace for their roles in the state’s advancement, emphasizing that their dedication has sustained unity and fostered peace and prosperity in Delta.
“On this momentous occasion marking 34 years of our cherished Delta State, I celebrate each Deltan, both at home and abroad. We have much to be proud of as a community united by love, diversity, and a shared commitment to progress,” he stated.
Governor Oborevwori reiterated that his administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda—focusing on Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security—aims to build upon previous milestones while opening new avenues for growth across various sectors.
“Our citizens can be assured that brighter days are on the horizon. We are dedicated to strengthening institutions, enhancing infrastructure, fostering business, empowering women and youth, and ensuring sustainable development that reaches every corner of Delta State,” he asserted.
He encouraged the public to remain optimistic, peaceful, and supportive of government initiatives, stressing the importance of collective effort for the state’s success.
The Governor also called for unity and prayers as Delta prepares to enter what he described as “a new era of development.”
Delta State was established on August 27, 1991, during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Suspected assassins stormed the residence of Bomadi Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, on Monday, and killed a police officer attached to him.
The fallen officer was Inspector O. O. Ojonogba of PMF 51, popularly known as “Ade.”
He was shot early Monday as the attackers stormed the council chairman’s residence.
Inspector Ojonogba, who was on duty, was reportedly asleep in the lounge when they shot him in the neck.
At the time of the attack, the chairman was reportedly away on official duties in Asaba, leaving behind his children with the late officer.
Confirming the incident, the chairman’s Special Assistant on Security, Mr. Obasanjo Zuokumor, told journalists: “Around 3–4 a.m., armed robbers entered the council chairman’s compound after breaking through the generator powerhouse while it was on.
“On the day of the incident, the chairman went with three other security personnel, leaving behind the late police officer and his children.
After gaining entry, they proceeded to the security personnel’s room—the officer identified as Insp. O. O. Ojonogba, attached to PMF 51—who was sleeping, and shot him in the neck.
“After that, they moved to the back of the main house, dismantled one of the burglary protectors, and entered through the dining area toward the children’s room.
In the children’s room, they demanded money and jewelry of the mother, firing shots at the ceiling and the wall thinking that the council chairman might have his himself in the ceiling.
They took all the phones, two iPads, and a laptop, but continued the search for more gadgets and, unfortunately, did not find any.”
The armed men reportedly fled the scene, leaving residents in shock.
When contacted for comments, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Edafe Bright did not respond to calls or messages on WhatsApp at press time.
On Monday, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori called on the Federal Government to focus on revitalizing the Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu ports, emphasizing his administration’s willingness to cooperate with the federal authorities on this initiative.
While meeting with the Board of Directors of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), led by Chairman Prince Senator Adedayo Adeleye, the governor expressed that renewing these seaports would significantly enhance Delta’s potential as a key maritime center in Nigeria.
Oborevwori argued that revitalizing these ports would generate employment opportunities, draw in investments, and increase national revenue. “Delta State is fortunate to have four ports.
Revitalizing them could lead to substantial job creation, stimulate trade, and bolster the economies of both Delta and Nigeria. It is more beneficial to upgrade existing ports than to construct new ones,” he stated.
He praised the NPA for their modernization initiatives but stressed the urgent need to dredge the Warri Channel and improve the facilities at Warri and Koko ports, urging that these actions should be prioritized at the national level.
The governor highlighted that Delta is working in close partnership with the Federal Government to address pressing infrastructural issues. “These collaborations are already producing results. The Federal Government has awarded the Summit Junction–Bridge Head section of the Benin-Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company, while our state has contracted a section of the Sapele–Warri Road project to CCECC for N35 billion. This reflects the strong relationship between the state and federal governments,” he explained.
Assuring potential investors of enhanced security in the state, Oborevwori noted that oil installations were no longer frequently targeted and that the business environment had become peaceful. He also mentioned that Delta has instituted a law to combat illegal levies and protect companies from harassment to further safeguard investments.
He urged businesses operating in Delta to uphold their agreements with local communities, as engaging local populations is vital for maintaining peaceful coexistence.
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure developments, Oborevwori announced that Julius Berger is back in the state after several years, working on significant flyover projects at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, and the DSC Roundabout, among others.
“Delta State welcomes investment, is prepared for partnerships, and is committed to establishing itself as Nigeria’s foremost maritime and economic hub,” he affirmed.
Earlier, Senator Adeleye expressed the NPA Board’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Delta State Government to revive the state’s ports and maximize their contribution to Nigeria’s maritime economy.
He acknowledged that Delta’s ports—Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu—are vital gateways that, if fully utilized, would enhance trade, generate employment, and foster economic advancement.
Adeleye noted that the NPA Board, which was inaugurated in June by Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, is undertaking a nationwide inspection of ports to identify challenges directly before implementing solutions.
He commended the Delta State Government for its support in securing the ports, emphasizing that safety is essential for sustainable operations.
Additionally, he pointed out issues such as underutilization, deteriorating quays, shallow drafts, and the necessity for a deep-sea port to attract global shipping traffic.
“Currently, Delta ports account for approximately 10.7 percent of national trade volumes, which is commendable, but there is significant room for improvement. With enhanced collaboration, we can restore the vitality of these ports and strengthen Nigeria’s maritime trade,” he concluded.
The NPA delegation also recognized the Delta State Government’s efforts in nurturing positive relationships with host communities and implementing corporate social responsibility initiatives to maintain peace.
The police have arrested eleven suspected robbers who specialize in robbing and defrauding their victims of their valuables from different parts of Delta and Edo States.
The police, in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, stated that the suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence from the operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team between the 11th and 16th of August 2025.
He noted in the statement that the arrested robbers/fraudsters specialized in robbing and defrauding unsuspecting victims of their valuable items such as phones, motorcycles, jewelry, and looting their victims’ bank accounts.
According to the statement, “The suspects act in the guise of asking for directions and then hypnotize their victims before extorting and defrauding them.”
“The suspects are Ibrukoko (m) aged 32 years, a native of Ovu community, Ethiope East LGA; Obruche actor (m) aged 31 years, a native of Emede community in Isoko South LGA; Lucky Umukoro (m) aged 28 years, a native of Eku community in Ethiope East LGA.”
“Emmanuel Buruutu is aged 22 years, a native of the Agbarho community, Ughelli North LGA; Musa Abdulahi (m) aged 27 years, a native of Kafancha in Jamma’a LGA of Kaduna State.”
“Sokoh (m) aged 30 years of Ovwian community in Udu LGA; Preye Julius (m) aged 36 years; and Kadija Abass aged 30 years of Gidama community, Ilela LGA, Sokoto State.”
“The suspects operate in Warri, Ughelli, and other areas in Delta and Edo states. Exhibits recovered from them include two Toyota Camrys with registration numbers LND-809-HE and KSF-61-JU, and sixteen suspected stolen iPhones.”
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects have so far defrauded their victims of over twenty-three million, five hundred thousand naira (N23,500,000), the iPhones stolen by the suspects are about forty-two, and the number of victims defrauded so far is twelve.”
Additionally, the DPO of Ekpan police, upon receiving numerous complaints about stolen ladders, noted that the suspects would come in the guise of being customers and never return with the ladders they hired.
“The DPO, on the 12th of August, 2025, detailed operatives who embarked on an intelligence-led investigation and arrested one Esquire Stanley.”
“The suspect stated that he sold the ladders for twenty thousand naira each, for ladders that normally sell for two hundred and fifty thousand naira (N250,000).”
“Three other victims have also identified the suspects. Further investigation led to the arrest of the receivers, namely Chinedu Okorie (m), Orgi Abara (m), Philip Augustine (m), and Obone Jevwe (m). In total, eleven suspected stolen ladders were recovered,” it added.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for calm and restraint amid reports of rising tensions between the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in the Warri South Local Government Area.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor urged residents and stakeholders in the oil town to refrain from actions that could threaten the ongoing peace and stability in the region.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure in Warri, emphasizing that maintaining peace is essential for realizing the city’s significant economic potential and supporting current development initiatives.
“We urge all stakeholders to back our efforts to enhance infrastructure in Warri and to avoid any actions that could disrupt the peace in this resource-rich city,” the governor stated.
Governor Oborevwori also called on community leaders, youth organizations, and influential figures to collaborate in promoting understanding, unity, and peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic groups in the area.
He highlighted his administration’s dedication to fostering inclusive governance and equitable development throughout the state and assured that security personnel are present to uphold peace and order.
Deacon Matthew Kwode, the Executive Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Political Matters, has extended warm birthday wishes to the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Olorogun Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, on the occasion of his birthday, today August 23, 2025.
In his congratulatory message, Kwode commended Prof. Ufuophu-Biri for his dedication and outstanding contributions to the development of education in Delta State.
He noted that the rector’s vision and commitment to improving the academic environment have positively impacted the lives of students and faculty alike, further positioning Delta State Polytechnic as a leading institution in technical and higher education.
Kwode highlighted the challenges faced by educational leaders and praised Ufuophu-Biri’s ability to navigate these difficulties with a progressive approach.
He remarked on the importance of fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration among educators and students, which Ufuophu-Biri has successfully championed as rector.
The Executive Assistant also expressed his appreciation for the rector’s role in promoting vocational training and skill acquisition programs at the polytechnic.
Such initiatives are crucial in equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive job market and contribute meaningfully to society.
Kwode stressed that these efforts align with the state government’s goals of enhancing youth empowerment and economic development.
Kwode wished Prof. Ufuophu-Biri not only a joyful birthday but also continued success in his role as rector.
He encouraged the academic leader to sustain his efforts in transforming Delta State Polytechnic into a model institution that prioritizes excellence, innovation, and community engagement.
Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents the Delta Central Senatorial District, has stated that the Urhobo ethnic group should no longer view itself as second-class citizens in Nigeria.
He emphasized the responsibility of those in power to uplift their own communities.
During a media interaction with the Ughelli Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Thursday at the Chapel’s Secretariat in Ughelli, Delta State, Senator Dafinone urged Urhobo leaders to take a proactive stance in favoring their people regarding employment and appointments, just as leaders from other regions do.
“We are not second-class citizens in this nation. When a director-general or managing director from another region is hiring 100 individuals, they typically select 90 from their locality. An Urhobo individual should not hesitate to employ 50 if given a similar opportunity,” Dafinone remarked.
The senator shared that upon assuming office, he initially focused on selecting only highly qualified candidates for jobs and contracts. However, he later recognized that many successful applicants were not necessarily more qualified; rather, they succeeded due to their persistence and connections.
“At the beginning, I was meticulous about qualifications, often telling applicants, ‘You’re not qualified for this job.’ Eventually, I realized that the person who secured the position often lacked qualifications too.
They worked hard and got it. Now, I encourage our people to pursue their ambitions as well. Not everyone will succeed, but some will, and that’s a risk worth taking,” he explained.
Dafinone indicated that Urhobos in Abuja have established a robust support network aimed at helping community members find jobs, contracts, and government positions.
“We have developed a network of Urhobo individuals in various offices in Abuja. When I provide their names and contacts, just mention that I referred you, and the process that would typically take a week could be completed in two hours,” the senator noted.
He stressed that his objective is not to seek personal accolades or claim leadership but to foster a sense of unity and progress among the Urhobo people.
“The Senate seat for Delta Central does not belong to me; it belongs to my community. The more I empower others through my office, the closer we come to addressing our youth’s challenges. It should not just center around me as an individual, but rather on all of us,” he added.
Dafinone also urged Urhobos in influential positions across the nation to make conscious efforts to hire at least two or three individuals from their ethnic group each year. He stressed that such consistent efforts could significantly reduce youth unemployment in Urhoboland.
“In the past, Urhobo managers would seek assistance from colleagues in other regions for recruitment, as if they lacked contacts among their own.
“This mentality must change. If every Urhobo in a position of power employs even two or three people yearly, we can make significant strides in tackling youth unemployment,” Dafinone pointed out.
He mentioned that during discussions with Urhobo stakeholders, he was encouraged to create a WhatsApp group or similar platform to promote the agenda.
However, he declined the suggestion to avoid misunderstandings that might suggest he was competing with the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) or trying to assert personal authority. Instead, he has continued to empower representatives from various gatherings to spread the message of Urhobo unity and empowerment.
“Whenever I meet with a group of 20 or 30 Urhobo individuals, I urge them to conduct their meetings, share information, and involve others. This way, it becomes a collective effort rather than just my mission. If I remain the sole link to influential figures, it diminishes our overall impact. However, if all of us champion Urhobo advancement, the outcome will be much more substantial,” he emphasized.
In closing, Senator Dafinone reaffirmed his commitment to keeping his doors open to the people of Delta Central and vowed to leverage his office to empower as many Urhobos as possible.
Earlier, Comrade Sunday Apah, Chairman of the Ughelli Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ, praised the senator for his initiative in updating the union on his Senate achievements.
He assured the union’s dedication to collaborating closely with the senator’s office to promote his work and initiatives.
