Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, today rewarded each member of the five-man Delta contingent that won the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, with a cash prize of N20 million.
The Governor also extended the same N20 million reward to the team’s handlers, describing their victory as a proud moment for the state and a testament to his administration’s commitment to educational excellence.
Receiving the champions, their parents, and officials at Government House, Asaba, Oborevwori praised the students for bringing global honour to Delta State and Nigeria.
He decorated them with their medals and received the championship trophy from the National Coordinator President’s Schools Debate Nigeria, Elder Dare Oritu.
“Delta State is known not only for oil production and talents in comedy, music, and sports but also for its brilliance in education. I believe this gesture will encourage our youths to be diligent and excel in their studies,” the Governor said.
Oborevwori commended the parents, coach, and handlers of the team for their contributions to the victory, adding that education is the most valuable legacy parent can give to their children.
He urged other students to emulate the hard work, discipline, and focus of the champions, noting that such virtues could help reduce crime in society.
Introducing the winners, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, thanked the Governor for his unwavering support for the education sector.
He recalled the Governor’s prayers for the team before their departure and commended the Oborevwori for being the first to pay the 2025 counterpart funding for UBEC-SUBEB projects.
Speaking on behalf of the champions, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, recounted how they debated global issues such as climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use.
She said they overcame initial doubts by drawing strength from what she called “the spirit of Delta” the courage to excel and represent every basic school student in the state.
The Delta State Government has dismissed claims of the Isoko Nation being sidelined in recent infrastructure approvals by the State Executive Council (EXCO), describing the allegations as misleading and not reflective of the administration’s equitable development agenda.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the state government reaffirmed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has continued to prioritize infrastructure development, healthcare, and education across all parts of Delta State, including the Isoko axis.
Aniagwu emphasized that contrary to the claims, the Isoko Nation has benefited immensely from the administration’s MORE Agenda, with over fifty-three (53) strategic projects either completed, ongoing, or approved across Isoko North and Isoko South local government areas.
He said the projects cut across road infrastructure, internal road networks in rural and urban communities, healthcare upgrades, and significant interventions in tertiary education.
Among key road projects being delivered in Isoko North are the construction and rehabilitation of the Emevor-Ivrogbo-Orogun Road (Phases I and II), the rehabilitation of the impacted section of the Ellu-Aradhe Road, and the construction of Urueode internal roads in Ofagbe. Akiewhe-Amiere-IDU Secretariat Road has also been rehabilitated, alongside the construction of Evemawoma Ogoma and Onome streets in Otor-Igho.
Others include the construction of Ogoruba, Eduje Matthew, and Enaruvbe streets in Otor-Igho; Otekpo Road in Ellu; and the extensive rehabilitation of the Ekiugbo-Iyede/Oghara-Iyede/Emevor Old Road with four newly constructed spurs. Construction of internal roads in Iyede, Iwride-Iyede, and Aradhe-Idoni-Ovrode is presently ongoing.
In Isoko South, numerous internal roads have been constructed across Oleh, Olomoro, Irri, Aviara, Okpolo-Enhwe, Emede, Igbide, Idheze, and Uzere. Some of the key projects include the Okpolo-Enhwe-Uwheru Road (Phase III), Ajuwawa Layout Roads in Uzere, Ojareda Enase Street in Irri, the Uruaka-Express Link Road in Emede, and the rehabilitation and overlay of the Edherie-Ase and Olomoro-Igbide roads.
The administration has also reconstructed the failed bridge approaches along Umeh Road, rehabilitated sections of the Uzere-Asaba Ase Road, and executed road works on the Enuru/Ukoli access road and Ukoli-Uruabe-Egbo-Uzude-Enuru roads in Olomoro.
In the education sector, the Southern Delta University, Ozoro, has witnessed extensive transformation, including the recruitment of 75 academic staff, successful accreditation of new courses, and the completion of key infrastructure such as the Vice Chancellor’s Lodge, Administrative Building, and new Faculty of Health Sciences.
These interventions were complemented by the expansion of Southern Delta University (SDU), Ozoro, to accommodate a new College of Medical Sciences.
The health sector has also seen remarkable improvements, especially at the primary level. Renovation works have been carried out at Primary Healthcare Centres in Emevor, Oleh, Irri, Uruto, Ofagbe, Ellu, Iyede, Igbide, Okpe-Isoko, and Enhwe. These facilities are now better equipped to provide quality health services to rural populations.
Furthermore, the establishment of the College of Health Technology in Ovrode and the equipping of the General Hospital in Ozoro demonstrate the government’s commitment to building sustainable healthcare infrastructure in the Isoko region.
Mr. Aniagwu described these projects as tangible evidence of Governor Oborevwori’s determination to ensure balanced development across Delta State.
“The records speak for themselves. From roads and schools to health infrastructure, the Isoko Nation has been a major beneficiary of this administration’s development blueprint. No ethnic group or region has been excluded,” he stated.
He urged community leaders and residents to engage constructively and factually, noting that government welcomes feedback but will always respond with truth and transparency.
“Development is continuous. We appeal to our Isoko brothers and sisters to acknowledge what has been done and work with government in identifying new priorities. We remain committed to a Delta that works for all,” Aniagwu added.
The Delta State government has directed that the Governing Council of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku, to reinstate the Rector, Bldr Professor Emmanuel Achuenu, citing “procedural breach” in the decision.
The state government faulted the institution’s Council for flouting Chapter 6, Subsection 6. 5. 1 of the Terms and Conditions of Service for Staff of Delta State Polytechnic, which outlines the procedural steps to be followed when the Council is of the view that a Principal officer has committed misconduct.
The State government noted that there is no evidence before it, through the Ministry of Higher Education, that a written query was issued the Rector, a properly constituted investigative committee comprising three (3) members of Council, one (1) representative of the Academic Board , and one (1) representative of the Congregation, both not lower in rank than the officer concerned ( in this case the Rector ), was set up.
In an official letter addressed to the Chairman of DSPG Governing Council, Paul Adingwupu , with reference No MHE/DSPG//Conf/2, dated 7th July 2025 and signed by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonikari , the action of the Governing Council “exceeds the limits of Council,s disciplinary powers , as no directive appears to have been sought , or obtained from the Visitor through the Ministry , as required”
The letter , titled RE: SUSPENSION OF THE RECTOR OF DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC , OGWASHI-UKU, reads in part : “While the Ministry appreciates the Council,s commitment to upholding discipline and accountability in the Polytechnic, it is imperative to underscore that all disciplinary actions , especially those affecting Principal officers of the Polytechnic , must comply with relevant provisions of the law establishing the Polytechnic , as well as the Terms and Conditions of Service applicable to Principal officers. Specifically , the attention of the Council is drawn towards the following statutory provisions : Part 1V, Section 17 (1) , of the law establishing the Polytechnic which states , “The Chairman of Council shall in relation to the Polytechnic , take precedence over all members of the Polytechnic , EXCEPT the Visitor and the Rector, except when acting as Chairman of the Congregation or Convocation , or in the course of performing his academic and executive functions”
The statement continues:”This provision indicates that the Rector ranks immediately after the Visitor , and is NOT SUBJECT to direct disciplinary action by Council , without proper procedure”
To finally put the lid on the illegal action of the Adingwupu led Governing Council , the letter is emphatic thus:”Furthermore , Part V11, Section 34 (1 and 2) , of the Establishing law , provides that , “if it appears to Council that a member of Council should be removed on grounds of misconduct or inability to perform his functions, the Council shall make a recommendation through the Commissioner to the Visitor”
“This implies”, the letter continues , that even where disciplinary actions are considered against members of the Council, such powers are vested in the Visitor ( Governor) , acting on the recommendation of Council via the Honourable Commissioner”
The letter, in which the Secretary to the State Government , office of the SSG , the Rector , Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku, were copied, directed full compliance with it’s directive “in the interest of institutional integrity , and rule of law
Delta State Government, Tuesday, presented a brand new bus each to the National Association of Nigeria Students/Joint Campus Committee (NANS/JCC) in the state and the National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU).
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, presented keys of the two buses to the Chairman of NANS/JCC, Comrade Samson Ikpahwore, and NADESSTU National President, Comrade Monday Wiska.
Delta govt donates two buses to NANS, NADESSTU
Speaking during the presentation of the buses at Government House, Asaba, Dr. Emu said the gesture of the state government was aimed at facilitating the positive and legal operational activities of the two students associations.
He explained that the vehicles were meant to convey the students to legitimate occasions, adding that the buses must be used for the benefit of NANS and NADESSTU, even as he warned the students’ leaders not to abuse the privilege of having the buses provided for them by the state government.
While congratulating the leadership of the two associations for attracting the vehicles to unions in their time, the SSG implored them to be good ambassadors of the state by their conduct and attitude.
Delta govt donates two buses to NANS, NADESSTU
“When you paid a courtesy call on the Governor at the Exco Chambers, you came with very many good news; especially when the NANS President declared himself as a Deltan.
“His Excellency made a lot of commitments and admonitions. He asked you to remain good ambassadors of Nigeria, especially Delta in particular.
“You must market Delta State. How do you do that? It is through your conduct and attitude because you are an ambassador of the state.
“These vehicles are to facilitate positive and legal activities. You must use them for the benefit of NANS and NADESSTU. There are two vehicles here; one is for NANS and the other one is for NADESSTU. The vehicles are meant to convey you to legitimate occasions. You are not to abuse the privilege.
“I want to plead with you that the youth is not the leaders of tomorrow but already of today. Your average age is very significant.
“So, you are entrusted with leadership roles and responsibilities; please, lead the people you are leading properly. Leadership is holding people by their hands and taking them to their destination.
“Rhe Governor is a youth- friendly governor. We do scholarships and we pay bursary and that is consistent. Last year alone, we paid bursary two times. So, anywhere any Deltan is, Governor Oborevwori is there,” Dr. Emu added.
In their separate responses, NANS/JCC Chairman, Comrade Samson Ikpahwore, and the NADESSTU President, Comrade Monday Wiska, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his administration’s magnanimous disposition towards the students community in the state.
They lauded the Governor for the payment of bursary to students of the state origin, the approval of funds for accreditation of academic programmes in universities, Polytechnics and the Colleges of Education in the state as well as the donation of the two buses, and assured that the donated vehicles would be judiciously utilised.
Delta State Government, yesterday, approved major infrastructure development projects targeted at urban renewal of the Asaba capital territory and Warri, the commercial nerve centre of the state.
The approvals were part of the decisions reached at the maiden 2025 State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Briefing journalists at the end the meeting, the Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Chief Patrick Ukah, expressed excitement at the recent approvals for road infrastructure projects in the territory.
He described the development as a significant step towards enhancing urban renewal, improving connectivity and boosting economic growth.
Chief Ukah emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming the capital territory through strategic infrastructure upgrades, assuring residents that the approved projects would bring lasting benefits to the capital territory.
According to Ukah, “I must tell you that the Capital Territory in this administration has received a lot of attention, especially in the area of road infrastructure.
“I am happy to report that the Umejei Road in Ibusa, is being given a complete facelift, and the Okpanam Township Road, from the City Gate to the church and extending into Amaichai down to the Post Office, has also been approved for reconstruction.
“We are also making significant progress across BONSAC. A 2.6-kilometer road from the Road Safety office is being constructed into BONSAC, along with a network of roads that will connect to Achalla Ibusa Road.”
He explained that some projects were delayed due to upward reviews but disclosed that approximately eight of them had now been approved, with contractors already mobilized to the respective sites.
“Before now, some of our projects were stalled due to upward reviews. However, in this administration, about eight of them have now been approved, and the contractors are returning to the sites.
“Four of these are major projects that many of us were concerned about due to delays. For instance, the one crossing Ogbeogonogo Market has been approved, and Odilison has also received approval. Once the official release is issued, you will see the full details of these roads.
“Most importantly, in line with the governor’s MORE agenda, the transformation of the capital city has officially begun. The entire capital territory is set to receive a facelift, and the development, under the MORE agenda, is being accelerated,” he added.
On his part, the Director-General, Warri, Uvwie, and Environs, Prince Godwin Ejinyere said Governor Oborevwori had directed that all major roads in Warri and environs should be given a face-lift.
“I want to sincerely inform Deltans that Warri truly will be great again as promised by the governor who has given the go ahead for us to reconstruct bad roads, to maintain bad roads and reconstruct roads linking major places in Warri.
“All the roads we are doing are not for political patronage. The Governor has directed that we identify all bad roads in Warri and make sure Warri wears a new look.
“Outside that today, Exco graciously approved the additional works for the stormwater project taking place in Warri.
“Knowing the nature of Warri that it’s always flooded whenever it rains and anytime from now the rains will be here again, the Warri storm water project was awarded sometime in April 2024 and has now been reviewed upward to accommodate additional works and also considering the rising cost of building and construction materials.
“We had to look into a lot of things for the job not to stop and, as I said today, the governor has graciously approved the onward construction of the project and equally increased the scope of work.
“Rome was not built in a day but I want to tell us that the job has been increased from what it used to be, to cover many other areas in Warri and environs.
“It’s a wonderful one; I want to say, on behalf of all our Warri people, that we owe nothing but prayers for our governor.”
The Delta State Government has approved a ₦1 billion revolving fund to be managed by the Bank of Industry (BOI) at a single digit interest rate to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.
The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this on Thursday, during a post EXCO press briefing at Government House, Asaba.
Ekedayen said the initiative aimed to boost entrepreneurship, create jobs, and drive economic growth by providing accessible financing to small business owners at a single digit interest rate.
He said the fund was expected to offer low-interest loans, helping businesses scale up operations and improve productivity.
He said: “The good news will excite the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the business community in the state, manufacturing companies, hoteliers, small scale industries among others.
“The Exco, in its wisdom, today approved a managed fund of N1billion with the Bank of Industry and it is another laudable
achievement of the Oborevwori-led administration.
“This is imperative because, apart from infrastructure, businesses operating within the confines of Delta State, no matter how small or big, will be eligible to accessing single digit loan from the Bank of Industry.
“I am sure that the commercial and business community in the state will be very happy about this because, as we all know, prime lending rate is in the region of about 30 per cent and most businesses will struggle to pay such rates.
“But with this, businesses in the state will be guaranteed of a loan facility of single digit from the Bank of Industry which is going to be revolving.
“I must emphasis that it is a loan and not a grant and only serious minded business men with proven track record will be given that money with subsidised interest rates with flexible tenure.
“Most commercial banks give their loans from 90 to 100 days but with this, the business community in the state can get loans from between one and five years, with some measure of moratorium in between.
“It is something I am very excited about because I know what businesses are suffering, especially by way of working capital.
“It is laudable and commendable for which I expect a major excitement from the business community.”
The Economic Planning Commissioner also disclosed that Exco approved the State’s Medium Term Development Plan for 2024-2027, describing it as the working document for the Governor’s MORE Agenda.
He added, “Also today, the Delta State Medium Term Development Plan number 3, (2024-2027) was approved and the importance of the medium-term plan cannot be over-emphasised because everything about projects approvals and implementation are all derivatives from this strategic plan.
“It encapsulates the vision and mission of the Governor as enshrined in his MORE Agenda and this document will drive everything about government spending and I can tell you, for free, that we are running all these without borrowing.”
Delta State Government, Friday, reiterated that it had not borrowed any money since Governor Sheriff Oborevwori took over governance in the state on May 29, 2023.
The State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije who disclosed this at a press conference in Asaba, said contrary to reports by an online news medium, the State Government had not entered into any borrowing relationship with any institution.
According to him, “this state has not entered into any borrowing relationship whatsoever, whether partnership, individual, corporate, bank, local, national or international. We have not borrowed a dime since this administration took effect on the 29th of May, 2023.
“I can state categorically in any forum I found myself, that Delta State remains, in terms of financial terms, the strongest financial state standing in this country.
“I say so with every emphasis because I know the finances of the state, and I say that we are clearly, clearly the strongest financial state in Nigeria.
“I can stand this debate at any point in time, because I know the balances as I speak to you today. I know the efforts that are being made by this administration.
“We stand categorically, heads up, to state that this administration has not borrowed a dime since 29th of May, 2023.
“We have paid so much in terms of construction, we have made sure that all debts are being paid down as seriously as we can.
“We have also improved in terms of contractual relationship with our contractors. Before now, it is difficult for us to give our contractors advanced payments.
“But as I speak, virtually all of the major contracts we have now, we have actually offered between 30% to 40% in terms of advanced payment.
“Indeed, the last discussion I had with the Governor, we are even thinking that for this particular dry season, we are going to be paying up to 70% advance payment.
“Because of the inflationary trends in Nigeria, we don’t want to be caught up in it at all. We do not want to review any contract whatsoever as we move on in this dry season.
“We want to take advantage of the dry season to do as much as we can and in terms of creating value for money for Deltans, the inspections that he has carried out are actually giving out so much to you and I.
“We need to understand his effort in trying to ensure that there are funding for all contracts that we have given and in all relationships that are actually being entered into by this administration.
“I state once again, categorically, as Commissioner for Finance, Delta State, that we have not borrowed any one kobo from any institution whatsoever since 29th of May, 2023.
“I also state categorically, and I am willing to stand anywhere to debate it, that we are the strongest states in terms of finance in this country.”
On his part, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu described Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as a man of impeccable integrity who has demonstrated a lot of transparency in the running of the affairs of the state.
“We have read out a number of projects that we have embarked upon in the last 19 and half months, and that all those projects are being funded by the funds that are at the disposal of the state, and that at no time in the last 19 and a half months has the state made any move to ask anybody to give us money in form of loan.
“We are only using what is available to us that comes in from our entire state. we have not at any time borrowed a penny, and so we were surprised when we saw a report in one of the online platforms suggesting that we are number one in terms of borrowing.
“We don’t know where that came from because as a state we are on a platform of solid liquidity. We are not only liquid, but we are solidly liquid to be able to deal with the problems that we have and that tells you the management skills of the Oborevwori administration,” he said.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has donated 31 operational vehicles to the Police and other security agencies in the state to strengthen their operations.
Governor Oborevwori while presenting the vehicles, on Monday, in Asaba, to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the presentation was to enhance the joint security operations in the state, code named “Operation Delta Sweep”.
He said the donation was informed by the general insecurity being experienced in the country and urged the security agencies to work together and share intelligence to ensure effective security in the state.
He said: “In my MORE Agenda, I promised Deltans that we would enhance peace and security and as part of this commitment, we are rebranding the operation formerly known as ‘Delta Hawk’ to ‘Operation Delta Sweep’ and this rebranding underscores our renewed focus and strategy.
“Without security, meaningful development cannot take place. We aim to create a secure environment where investors feel confident to come in and invest, ultimately improving the quality of life for our citizens and fostering harmony across the state.
Delta govt donates 31 operational vehicles to police, others
“This joint security task force, established on December 10, 2020, as a policy response to rising violent crimes, comprises the Nigerian Army, Police Force, Air Force, Navy, DSS, and Civil Defense Corps.
“Since its inception, this initiative has recorded significant successes in combating crimes such as illegal oil bunkering, kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and drug-related offenses.
“The rebranding reflects our administration’s resolve to reduce crime to its barest minimum. To support this effort, the state government has donated 31 vehicles, including 23 pickups and eight Sienna wagons, in addition to four Hilux vehicles previously delivered. This brings the fleet to 66 vehicles, aimed at enhancing daily patrols, especially during the Ember Months.
“I trust this will boost the morale of task force members and motivate them to redouble their efforts to keep our state safe.
“We remain committed to providing the necessary support to ensure peace and security in Delta State. With these measures, I am confident that our people will enjoy a secure and peaceful season.”
Speaking earlier when during a courtesy call by the IGP, Governor Oborevwori lauded the exceptional, inspiring, and reassuring leadership of the Nigeria Police Force “Safe School Program”, designed to protect schools and educational institutions from terror attacks and violent crimes.
“Thanks to this initiative, parents and guardians can now rest assured that their children are under the watchful eyes of the School Protection Squad. Mr. IGP, I applaud your exemplary leadership and your willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a safe, secure, and prosperous society.
“Permit me to appreciate the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, along with his counterparts in the military and paramilitary who form the security architecture of our state.
“I am confident that under their capable leadership, Delta State is becoming safer and more secure. Their efforts have been commendable, marked by unity and cooperation,” Oborevwori said.
In his remarks, the IGP, commended Governor Oborevwori for the support to the State Police Command and other security agencies in the state and lauded Oborevwori for the way he managed the recent nationwide protests in the state.
Egbetokun said: “I am truly delighted to be here today and witness the remarkable strides being made for Delta State. It is evident that your commitment to the safety and security of the people is unwavering.
“For the visit of the Inspector General of Police, you have provided 31 brand-new operational vehicles for the state. This act speaks volumes about your dedication.
“Indeed, your unwavering support to the police command and other security agencies in the state is commendable. With a governor like you, we don’t need to ask for more because you always deliver beyond expectations.
“I want to assure His Excellency and the public that these new vehicles will be immediately deployed to enhance the operational effectiveness of the police and other security agencies under Operation Delta Sweep”.
The governor who was also at the opening ceremony of Police Public Relations Officers/Police Communication Experts Conference in Asaba, noted that too often, misconceptions and unverified information about Delta State spread through social media, creating false impressions.
He said as Police Public Relations Officers, their role was vital in countering misinformation and fostering transparency, adding that the relationship between the police and the public is critical.
He pointed out that public engagement and effective communication were essential to bridging the gap and showcasing the incredible work the police are doing.
Declaring the conference open, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the Nigerian Police Force was steadfastly committed to promoting amicable settlements, upholding fairness, and ensuring accountability.
The IGP pointed out that the Police recognized the immense influence of the media in shaping public perception and consider it a vital ally in their advocacy and accountability efforts.
Delta State Government, Thursday, reiterated it’s determination to continue to provide necessary support towards making educational institutions globally competitive for economic and technological development of the state and country.
Executive Assistant to the State Governor on Education Monitoring, Mr Clement Siakpere, who stated this while on monitoring assignment, in Essi College 1, Warri, noted that quality education forms an integral part of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration’s MORE Agenda.
Siakpere, a former Registrar and Secretary to Council at Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, said with a total of 1,142 and 489 public primary and public secondary schools in Delta, the State was well positioned to provide early childhood education for the young ones.
He posited that Delta was well positioned to become an education hub in the near future with four state universities bridging the gap and providing access for quality higher education.
According to him, “Delta State’s vision on education is to provide unfettered access to Basic Education to all Children of Pre-Primary, Primary and Post Primary schools age for a qualitative, functional and free education that will equip them for purposeful living.
“The mission is to ensure the provision of qualitative, functional free and compulsory education to all children of school age, irrespective of religion, sex, culture and disability including the 2nd chance (Adult) Learners.”
Siakpere noted that over the years, the state government had continued to partner with relevant institutions such as UBEC, TETFUND in the provision of physical infrastructure, support for academic staff training and development, books publication, ICT, Research and Development amongst others in public tertiary educational institutions across the country.
He reassured that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remains totally committed towards providing greater support and the enabling environment to ensure that the education sector improves on its performance.
The Executive Assistant, commended Governor Oborevwori for the commitment he has demonstrated towards the development of education since the commencement of his administration on May 29, 2023.
He listed such efforts as construction and furnishing of school buildings, payment of bursary to students of the state origin including the recent scholarship approval to children of deceased civil servants and students living with disabilities.
Siakpere said that the financing of projects in the higher education sector is a clear demonstration of Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to the provision of requisite physical infrastructure in the state’s public tertiary institutions.
He further said the greatest beneficiaries of the educational milestones in the state are the indigent children, who on account of the circumstance of their birth, location, or economic status of their parents might not have had access to education.
Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, Tuesday, said the State Government has been able to curtail the ravaging cholera disease in the state.
Onojaeme who disclosed this in Asaba, while briefing newsmen on how the state government was managing the outbreak of the disease, said Cholera was a disease of national outbreak and so far three outbreaks had occurred in the country this year.
The Health Commissioner, however, said the state has recorded a total of 138 cases of Cholera with seven deaths since the epidemic broke across the country in February this year, adding that majority of the cases were young children.
Flanked by the State Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, Dr Onojaeme, said the seven casualties were recorded during the first epidemic. He added that no casualty has been recorded in the second and third epidemics.
He said: “The signs and symptoms are basically passage of watery low stool, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance among others.
“The State has recorded 138 cases in Warri South-West which is the local government it started and in the second and third outbreak we had seven cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South.
“We have been able to curtail the disease in Delta State and the disease surveillance and notification officers across the state have been able to carry out a lot of advocacies to our people to educate them about the cause of the disease.
“Cholera is mainly a disease of poor sanitary environment and we have educated them about simple hand washing and not taking unclean water. We have also provided tablets to purify some of these unclean waters.
“So far so good, since about six weeks now in Warri South-West where it started from, we had only 20 suspected cases and majority of the cases we noticed we have treated and its basically under control.
“We are doing a lot of advocacies and the risk factors are basically poor sanitary condition and reduced stomach acid. Cholera has an incubation period of 12 days and within this period somebody not showing these symptoms can spread it through phaeces and urine to other persons.
“Staying with somebody with the bacteria is a big risk factor to contact the bacteria from that person so maintaining hygiene is very key to eliminating Cholera from our environment and it is common among villages along the water bank.
“In Delta State we have eight local governments that are of high risk viz; Warri South, Warri South-West, Warri North, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi and Burutu.
“So far, the Ministry has curtailed the disease within the high risk local government areas and the Epidemiology unit of the Ministry is doing a lot of surveillance on these patients and its fully under control.”
