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  • N1bn loan for MSMEs in Delta ready soon – Oborevwori’s Aide

    N1bn loan for MSMEs in Delta ready soon – Oborevwori’s Aide

    The Delta Government has assured that the one billion Naira soft loan it approved for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state would be ready soon.

    Mr Olisa Ifeajika, Executive Assistant to Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori on Public Enlightenment (Projects and Policies), disclosed this while clarifying certain issues to newsmen on Monday in Asaba.

    Ifeajika recalled that the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, had on Feb. 14 announced the state government’s approval to set aside the sum of N1 billion soft loan at a single digit interest to grow MSMEs in the state.

    He said that the perceived delay to the plan’s takeoff was due to proper documentation by way of signing the Memorandum of Understanding between the state government and the Bank of Industry (BoI), the funds manager.

    The governor’s aide said the choice of the BoI as fund manager was deliberate due to its expertise and years of experience in handling such funds.

    Ifeajika added that the loan would accommodate both existing and new entrants into the MSMEs scheme in the state.

    According to him, the loan scheme covers all residents operating their businesses in the state, and is at a single digit interest rate.

    He stressed that the state government’s intention was to build and grow the MSMEs and the state’s economy, adding that there are no political colorations to ensure an operator accessed the loan.

    The governor’s aide added that the qualification to access the loan was to be a resident business operator, proffer proper documentation and apply through the BoI.

    He said: “the qualification is just do your business in Delta and present your qualification to the BoI for assessment.

    “The fund is ready but the people cannot access it now. It will be ready in few weeks after the proper documentations are done by way of signing a memorandum of understanding between the state government and the bank.

    “The economy of any nation revolves around the MSMEs. This informs the state government’s decision to earmark the N1 billion loan for MSMEs to grow the state economy.”

    On the speculations about Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori decamping from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ifeajika  debunked the insinuation, saying that it was mere speculation and wishful thinking.

    “A cordial relationship exists between the governor and President Bola Tinubu, focused on ensuring good governance and this is expected of all well-meaning Nigerians to promote the country’s overall development.

    According to Ifeajika, Gov. Oborevwori has cordial relationship with President Bola Tinubu to promote good governance but not with the APC.

    “Oborevwori is the pathfinder of the PDP and a general does not leave his troup. Delta is PDP and all its members have the DNA of PDP.

    “He (Oborevwori) is for PDP and whatever he has, will be utilised to support PDP at the national level,” the governor’s aide stressed.

  • 2027: Ex-Delta gov, Okowa drums support for Oborevwori

    2027: Ex-Delta gov, Okowa drums support for Oborevwori

    Former Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta on Saturday called on the people of the state to support incumbent Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori in his bid to return for a second term in office in 2027.

    Okowa made the call while addressing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faithful in Ika North East Wards 3 and 4, at  Boji-Boji Owa.

    He said the call had become necessary because Gov. Oborevwori has demonstrated love for all people of the state and has initiated policies that were adding value to the lives of the average person in Delta.

    The ex-governor appreciated the massive turnout of party faithful in the two wards, but frowned at the few PDP members who left the party despite their personal achievements and successes, which were largely traceable to the empowerment they received while in the PDP.

    Okowa said that he was aware of the antics of those looking to deceive others but expressed confidence that party members knew those who truly meant well for them and their communities.

    He lauded the decision of the party leaders in the local government to initiate a monthly contributory scheme aimed at empowering the people in the area.

    He said, “It’s a thing of joy seeing party leaders coming together to extend ₦100,000 grants to each of the 100 persons drawn from the two wards.

    “One hundred thousand naira might not be too much considering the state of the economy, but I do not have any iota of doubt that it will have an impact on the very micro businesses of these our people, even as it will also aid and encourage our farmers.

    “The beauty of this process is that the party leaders have assured that two wards will benefit from this gesture every month going forward.”

    Earlier, the PDP Chairman, Ika North East, Mr Chuks Agbormah, thanked the former governor and other party leaders for gracing the event.

    He assured the party leaders that efforts were ongoing to continue mobilizing support for Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    Agbormah later received members of the APC who decamped to the PDP and assured them that the umbrella was large enough to accommodate them.

    Other dignitaries who attended the rally include,  Mr Victor Nwokolo, Member Representing Ika Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Marilyn Okowa Daramola, Representing Ika North East State Constituency, State House of Assembly,

    Also, Dr Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the Delta State Government, Mr Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Monday Hunkamma Odigwe, Chairman Ika North East, Dr Hillary Ibegbulem, Mr Ifeanyi Egboigbe, Dr Frank Nwugo, Hon Tony Elekeokwuri.

  • Okorodudu embarks on project inspection in DESOPADEC mandate areas, hails Oborevwori (Photos)

    Okorodudu embarks on project inspection in DESOPADEC mandate areas, hails Oborevwori (Photos)

    The Executive Director Projects, EDP, DESOPADEC, Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu in Tuesday embarked on inspection of projects in DESOPADEC mandate Areas.

    Addressing DESOPADEC Media after the inspection, Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu hailed His Excellency, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his magnanimity and love for the infrastructural development of the oil producing communities of Delta State, saying that the M.O.R.E. Agenda of the Governor has endeared him to commit resources into people oriented and impacted projects in the mandate areas.

    “The primary responsibility of Government is to maintain law and order but over the years, governments all over the world have embarked on developmental needs of the people.

    “You can see the Health Center at Obodo in Warri South Local Government Area where the project is targeted at improving the lives of the rural dwellers. We saw some few challenges which we will take up, discuss and improve upon,” he stated.

    The Matron at the Obodo Health center, Nurse Okpoko Violet thanked the Commission for the initiative and also appealed for staff quarters to be built to assist workers in rendering their services in the center.

    Dr. Okorodudu said the aim of the ongoing inspection is to ascertain the level of work done and to make sure that all projects are done in line with job specifications in anticipation of commissioning in a few months’ time.

    “The Ubeji Modern Market Lock up and open stores is a completed project that is well located. We hope that when the time comes for the allocation of the stores, the needful should be done so that the common man can benefit too because the project belongs to the people. The Sheriff Oborevwori led government is the government of the people, by the people and for the people,” he said.

    Speaking further, he said the College of Education Administration block project in Warri South is a star project of DESOPADEC which when completed, will go a long way in upgrading the infrastructure and solving the office accommodation needs of the institution.

    “The College of Education structure is quite amazing. It is a star project not just for the Commission but the State Government. It requires so much fund to be committed to it in the budget. I will convey to the Board the urgent need to complete the project,” he added.

    Also in Warri Club where fencing, drainage and swimming pool projects are ongoing, Dr. Okorodudu commended the contractor, the President and members of the club for keeping the institution’s dreams alive, adding that DESOPADEC’s intervention is to uplift the infrastructure of the institution for the benefit of Members of the club and the general public and to the Glory of God.

    “Warri club is an old institution, a pride of Delta State. It has been a popular club even before we were born. Established in 1924 and has since being sustained. I commend the leadership for reaching out to the Commission for this landmark project,” he enthused.

    Other projects inspected were the supply and installation of a unit of 500 kva transformer in Omadino community in Warri South Local Government Area.

    Those on the inspection team of the EDP, Included Engr. Tony Okuwe, Executive Assistant Projects; Mr. Festus Ifowodo, Head Utilities Department; Engr. Elliott Olokor, Head Projects Monitoring and Evaluation PME; Engr. Friday Money, Head Works Department; Engr. Evans Omene Technical Assistant, to EDP; Engr. Mathew Onokpasa SA to EDP; Dr. Fredrick Adu, Head Department of Medical and Safety Services, DESOPADEC amongst others.

    See photos below:

  • Disputes: Oborevwori receives report of inquiry on Ogwashi-Uku, neighbouring communities

    Disputes: Oborevwori receives report of inquiry on Ogwashi-Uku, neighbouring communities

    Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Tuesday received the Commission of Inquiry’s report on the lingering kingship and land ownership dispute within Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area and its neighbouring communities.

    The governor, who received the report at Government House, Asaba, said he would give prompt attention, study and release the white paper on the report.

    “I am before you today filled with optimism as I receive this Commission of Inquiry report on the kingship/land ownership disputes within the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom.

    “And as well as the report between the Ogwashi-Uku kingdom and some of its neighbouring communities, namely Ibusa, Otulu, Ubulu-Okiti, Okpanam, Olodu, Ewulu, Azagba-Ogwashi, Aboh-Ogwashi and Olloh-Ogwashi communities.

    “The setting up of this Commission of Inquiry in October last year became necessary to ascertain the root causes of the seemingly intractable land disputes and violence, which, over time, resulted in several loss of lives and wanton destruction of property.

    “This culminated in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the area and, in situations like this, the local economy could be under threat,” he said.

    Oborevwori lauded the Chairman and members of the Commission of Inquiry for their sacrifice, dedication to duty and sense of responsibility.

    He said, “I assure the people of Ogwashi-Uku and environs that the State Government would commence the study of this report immediately, and a White Paper on it will be issued as soon as possible.

    “It is imperative that I use this opportunity to once again appeal to the feuding communities to give peace a chance, and embrace the spirit of harmony, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence.

    “Finally, I wish to reiterate my earlier charge that the Delta of our dreams has no room for bitterness and bigotry.

    “We must commit ourselves to loving one another, respecting one another, and being tolerant of one another.

    “Our traditional rulers, religious leaders, political leaders, and community leaders must take the lead in dousing tension in our communities; they should be advocates of peace, harmony, and peaceful co-existence.

    “We must learn to be our brothers’ keeper. This is one of the pathways to ensuring enhanced peace and security as enshrined in the M.O.R.E Agenda of my administration.”

    Presenting the report, Chairman of the Commission of Inquiry, Justice Ejiro Emudainohwo, thanked the governor for appointing men and women of integrity into the Commission of Inquiry.

    She said, “It is with great joy and a sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to formally present the report of the panel of Enquiry into the Kingship and land ownership dispute in Ogwashi-uku kingdom.

    “Your Excellency, in response to the concerns raised by stakeholders and in recognition of the need to ensure peace, order and adherence to traditional orders, this commission was constituted to examine the issues surrounding the conferment of traditional chieftaincy titles and land disputes within Ogwashi-Uku.

    “Our mandate was clear; to investigate and propose recommendations that will serve as a foundation for lasting peace and stability in the community.

    “After an extensive review of historical records, evidence from indigenous and contending parties from Ogwashi-Uku and key stakeholders, a thorough examination of prevailing customary practices;

    “We have compiled our findings and formulated recommendations that we believe will provide a structure and equitable framework for governance and land administration in Ogwashi-Uku.”

    According to her, the committee’s key recommendations include; Codification of the succession procedure to the throne of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku to prevent issues and ensure smooth transition in leadership.

    “We recommend that the Delta State Government codify the customary procedure for the succession of the throne. This will provide clarity and legal backing to the traditional process, while preserving the cultural heritage of the people.

    “Codification of the Ogwashi-Uku customary laws on the conferment of clan Chiefs and Okwabanis.

    “Given the importance of these positions in traditional governance structures and administration of land in Ogwashi-Uku;

    “We recommend that the appointment process be documented through written declarations to prevent disputes, ambiguity and usurpation of the customs and traditions in the procedure of the appointment of Chiefs and Okwabanis.

    “Definition of the functions, hierarchy and reporting lines of the traditional chieftaincy titles, the roles of the Okuabanis and other registered traditional chieftaincy titles should be clearly spelt out in a formal document.

    “This will establish a well defined hierarchy and reporting structure that promotes peace and order, respect and accountability within the traditional institution.”

    Emudainohwo added that on the recognition of the rights to self- determination and due process;

    “In line with global best practice, communities that seek self- determination or autonomy should not be suppressed but rather guided to follow due legal and administrative processes. This will foster harmony and prevent unnecessary conflicts.

    “These recommendations, if adopted and implemented, will not only bring lasting peace to Ogwashi-Uku but will also serve as a model to conflict resolution in other traditional communities facing similar problems.

    “We believe that a properly codified and respected traditional institution will enhance governance at the grassroot level, preserve the rich cultural heritage of the people and promote sustainable development.”

  • Oborevwori approves cash rewards for Team Delta’s historic NSF victory

    Oborevwori approves cash rewards for Team Delta’s historic NSF victory

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the disbursement of cash awards to athletes and officials of Team Delta in recognition of their outstanding performance at the 21st National Sports Festival (NSF) held in Asaba, Delta State.

    This decision underscores the governor’s steadfast commitment to fostering sports excellence and rewarding hard work. Team Delta once again demonstrated its supremacy in Nigerian sports by successfully defending its title and clinching a record-breaking eighth championship win in the festival’s ten editions.

    Commenting on the governor’s approval, the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Onoriode Oborevwori, praised the gesture as a clear indication of the governor’s passion for sports development.

    “This approval reflects His Excellency’s dedication to recognizing and rewarding excellence. Our athletes and officials gave their best, and this reward will undoubtedly motivate them to aim even higher,” he said.

    Echoing similar sentiments, the Director-General of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Festus Ohwojero, lauded the move, noting its importance as the team gears up for the upcoming Gateway Games Ogun 2024.

    “This is a well-deserved reward for our athletes and officials. It will serve as a morale booster as we prepare for the next national games, ensuring Delta State remains a dominant force in national and international sports.”

    Governor Oborevwori has consistently prioritized the welfare of athletes. Just two months before the 8th edition of the National Youth Games, he approved cash awards for the 7th edition, a timely gesture that played a pivotal role in motivating the athletes and securing Delta State’s first-place finish at the 8th National Youth Games.

    Similarly, in December 2024, the governor ensured that cash awards for the 8th edition were paid during the festive season, allowing athletes and officials to celebrate Christmas and New Year with joy.

    As part of the 21st National sports Festival cash award, some  athletes who won 7 to 8 individual gold medals will receive as much as N7million to N8million respectively, further highlighting the governor’s dedication to sports development.

    Team Delta made history at the 21st National Sports Festival by winning an unprecedented 576 medals, including 280 gold, 167 silver, and 129 bronze, solidifying its position as Nigeria’s leading sports powerhouse.

  • Oborevwori mourns Clark, says his death end of great era

    Oborevwori mourns Clark, says his death end of great era

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has sent his commiserations to the Ijaw nation on the passing of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, describing his death as “End of a great era”.

    Pa Clark reportedly passed on Monday night, at 97.

    Until his death, he was leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the South-South Peoples Assembly, and the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF).

    In a condolence message to the family and the Ijaw nation, Governor Oborevwori, in statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Pa Clark’s life and times as indeed well spent in the service of the nation.

    He eulogised the late elder statesman for his unwavering and unprecedented dedication to the growth and unity of the nation, especially in the South-South.

    Oborevwori said; “Today, I mourn the passing of an elder statesman, Nigerian patriot, and role model, Chief (Dr) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, OON, an icon whose influence traversed Nigeria’s political scene for six decades. Teacher, educator, public servant, and politician, Chief Clark was a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervour.

    “To the people of the Niger Delta region, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity and justice for the region.

    “His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.

    “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, on the passing of Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday 17th February, 2025.

    “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Ijaw nation over this monumental loss. We can all take solace in the saying that Chief Clark came, he saw, and he conquered.

    “Pa Clark, an astute lawyer, administrator, patriot, and freedom fighter, was a prominent player in Nigerian politics and a tenacious supporter of the rights of Niger Deltans.”

    His passing, coming a few days after the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, is truly the end of a great era.

    “May his gentle soul rest in peace!”

  • Deltans embark on solidarity march for Oborevwori

    Deltans embark on solidarity march for Oborevwori

     

    Thousands of Deltans, Tuesday, embarked on a solidarity march and appreciation rally for the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his massive infrastructural development of all parts of the state.

    The people, under the aegis of Team Dayegah and Tomoduroji for Governor Oborevwori, marched through the streets to Government House, Asaba, with solidarity placards.

    Displaying the placards with various inscriptions such as “Mr. quality projects”, “carry go till 2031″; ” Delta APC leave Governor Sheriff Oborevwori alone”, “Delta is a PDP State”, “there is no shaking”, among others, they sang solidarity songs affirming their support for the Governor till 2031.

    The leader of the Team Dayegah and Tomoduroji, Prince Godwin Dayegah, who spoke on behalf of the people, said the solidarity rally was to thank the Governor for all he had done and to assure him of their total support in the governance of the state.

    He said the network of roads and bridges, renovation and upgrade of facilities in schools and hospitals as well as development in other sectors had attracted national and international recognitions and called on the Governor to sustain his good works.

    “We gathered here today to express our solidarity with you and appreciation for the transformative work you have accomplished over the past 20 months under your MORE Agenda.

    “Despite attempts by certain opposition individuals to undermine your efforts with falsehoods and propaganda, the people of Delta State stand united behind you and your government.

    “This solidarity march reaffirms our gratitude and we encourage you to keep pushing forward with your good works for the betterment of Delta State,” he said.

    While urging those portraying the state in bad light to desist, Dayegah said that team spirit was needed to take the state to greater heights.

    Receiving the people, the Chief of Staff to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Hon. Johnson Erijo, applauded them for the solidarity rally and assured Deltans of more human capital and infrastructural transformation from the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration.

    Hon. Erijo said more development was in the pipeline and solicited the support of all Deltans in advancing Delta through the MORE Agenda of the Oborevwori administration in the state.

    He said no efforts would be spared in delivering on all campaign promises made by the governor and called on Deltans to redouble their support for Governor Oborevwori, adding that a lot more would be done in the life of the present administration.

    “Team Dayegah and Tomoduroji, I thank you so much for this solidarity and support for our Governor who God graciously approved to become Governor and who has made us proud.

    “Just this moment, we are coming from a similar visit from the entire students world wide who have came to show solidarity to His Excellency for the good governance delivered to Deltans.

    “It is not just from your group; only recently, he was honored with the award of the Best Performing Governor by Thisday Newspapers and Arise Television; that is a clear indication of what he is doing.

    “We are glad that, as Deltans, that you have come to say ‘thank you’ for the good governance. And, like all of you are singing that he should carry go till 2031, we have to thank you for that opportunity you have given to him.

    “We strongly believe that before we get to the bus stop of election, people who are derailing will come back to join all of us,” Erijo added.

  • Monumental strides: NANS inducts Oborevwori into its Hall of Fame(Photos)

    Monumental strides: NANS inducts Oborevwori into its Hall of Fame(Photos)

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Tuesday, inducted Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori into its Hall of Fame, following what it termed his monumental infrastructural and human capital development across the state.

    The induction was performed by the Global President of NANS, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, when he led members of the National Executive Committee, NEC, of the association on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.

    Comrade Emonefe, a Deltan, said Governor Oborevwori’s phenomenal development strides were visible to all Deltans in particular and Nigerians as a whole, a development he said, singled him out for the honour, and assured him of the continued support of the students’ body in advancing his administration’s MORE Agenda for the good of Deltans.

    He said the upgrade of infrastructural facilities in the state -owned tertiary institutions, the renovation of 150 health centres, the appointment of youths into his cabinet and the training and empowerment of youths had endeared the Governor to all, even as he appealed to him not to relent in the fulfillment of all his campaign promises to Deltans.

    Comrade Emonefe said the other Award of Excellence bestowed on Governor Oborevwori was in appreciation of his passionate commitment to ensuring that the education sector of the state economy received its pride of place in the scheme of things.

    On the regular monitoring of projects, the NANS leader appealed to the Governor to sustain the tempo of inspection so that Deltans would get value for money spent on the projects.

    He said, “we bring to you greetings of solidarity from the national headquarters of the National Association of Nigerian Students.

    “We are very happy to be in Delta State Government House today. NANS is the umbrella body of all Nigerian students and we are happy that, in your time, a Deltan emerged as the National and Global President of NANS.

    “Since you emerged as the Governor of Delta State, good things have continued to happen. We now have a Deltan as NANS President and we have also heard about the activities of Julius Berger in Delta State.

    “We are aware of your good deeds in the education sector and all the other sectors of this state. On that note, the leadership of NANS has resolved to induct you into the Hall of Fame of NANS.

    “We are aware of the numerous projects you are doing in the state and how you take out time to monitor them. The leadership of NANS has mandated me to thank you.

    “We also thank you for your continuous payment of bursary to students of Delta State origin. On record, we are aware that you have approved two payments of busary in one year”.

    Responding, Governor Oborevwori who thanked the students’ body for the honour done him, said the vision of his administration was to ensure that residents of the state had affordable quality education at all levels, even as he pledged to continue to implement policies and programmes that would impact positively on the lives of the people.

    While congratulating the NANS President on making Deltans proud, he said the inclusion of youths in his cabinet was to give them the platform to showcase their talents, pointing out that they were all doing well.

    On bursary, the Governor said over 30,000 students of the state origin were benefitting from the scheme, stressing that a lot was being done to fast track the all -round development of the state.

    While reeling out the numerous people- oriented programmes of his administration, he sued for the sustained support of all in taking the state to a higher level of sustainable development.

    “It is my pleasure to welcome all of you to Government House. Your election as NANS president is a great encouragement to the student body.

    “I have listened to you carefully and I thank you for your commendations. When I came in, I just felt that we needed to bring in the young ones. We did that so that they can be mentored by the older ones and today, they are doing very well.

    “I believe in education; it is the source of one’s life. What you can give to your people is education. When you do that, you have given them a platform to stand. And that is exactly what we are doing. You can see that today, we are the only state with four public universities.

    “On the issues of the bursary, since I came in, we have paid not less than 30,000 students. So, we look into the issue of increasing the bursary.

    “We have also not increased school fees like some states have done. I tried to even reduce admission fees to enable our students go to the university.

    “We shall continue to support our students to make it easier for them to succeed in their education,” Governor Oborevwori said.

  • Obiodeh hails Oborevwori as Delta State Government renovates Igbide schools

    Obiodeh hails Oborevwori as Delta State Government renovates Igbide schools

     

    Delta State Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Chief Emamusi Obiodeh has appreciated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the renovation of twelve classrooms in Igbide.

    The Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education had recently completed the renovation of six-classrooms block at Igbide Grammar School and another six-classrooms block in Owodokpokpo Grammar School, Igbide. Bringing much-needed infrastructural improvements to these educational institutions.

    In a statement on Monday, in Asaba, Commissioner Obiodeh, an indigene of Igbide, hailed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, on behalf of the people of the community for his administration’s commitment to enhancing the learning environment for students.

    While expressing the joy of the community, he praised the state government’s unwavering dedication to quality education and infrastructure development, emphasizing that the completion of these projects will significantly improve the standard of education in the community and the state in general.

    He noted that the newly renovated classrooms would provide a more conducive learning atmosphere for students and teachers alike, fostering academic excellence.

    He further urged the benefiting communities of Igbide and Owodokpokpo to take ownership of the infrastructure, ensuring their proper maintenance and sustainability.

    The Commissioner expressed gratitude, commending the state government’s initiative in prioritizing education as a tool for youth empowerment and societal growth.

    “The successful completion of these classrooms renovation aligns with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.” Obiodeh stated.

  • Oborevwori committed to functional, quality education in Delta – Aniagwu

    Oborevwori committed to functional, quality education in Delta – Aniagwu

     

    Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to providing functional and high-quality education across the state.

    Aniagwu who emphasized the importance of equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for a competitive future, disclosed this on a national television programme monitored in Asaba, the state capital at the weekend.

    The Commissioner who was reacting to questions regarding the challenges of proceeding with construction on the abandoned Sapele Polytechnic at Deghele-Iriabome communities, Elume District in Sapele LGA, assured of Governor Oborevwori’s continued investment in the education sector.

    According to him, there is the need to understand the issue of functionality, education is not like opening a biscuit shop were everybody can come and buy biscuits.

    “There is a reason for establishing institutions and i told you that we needed to look at the issues of quality and functionality as part of the aftermath of the 2016 education summit organized by the state government”.

    “We had education summit in 2016 and we brought in professionals from across the country to assist us on a need assessment in the education sector and to make sure that our students do not remain in school more than necessary due to strikes”.

    “The main goal of that summit was to ensure that our students get the kind of quality education that can position them to compete globally. Our education philosophy is to have accessible and functional institutions and not just to establish higher institutions that could make us to be seen to be politically correct”.

    “Prior to the establishment of three new universities by the Ifeanyi Okowa led administration, we had three Polytechnics in Ogwashi-Uku, Ozoro and Otefe-Oghara. These polytechnics were established in the three Senatorial districts and that is in addition to three colleges of education in the three Senatorial districts.

    “We had the main campus of the Delta State University in Central Senatorial District with other campuses in the South and the North”.

    “So what we did as a government is to continue in the assessment of what we need, not to play politics. If you go and establish three polytechnics and you have 300 hundred students in one and possibly 500 lecturers and at the end of the day it becomes mushroom, how have you helped the state with that?

    The Commissioner said the new universities were established based on a feasibility study which indicated the trend students were gravitating to.

    “When we examined the trend we saw that many persons want to navigate towards University education and the University we had did not have enough carrying capacity.

    “It was on the basis of that we established three additional universities with the Polytechnic at Ozoro converted to Delta State University of Science and Technology and later Southern Delta University, the campus at Asaba became Dennis Osadebay University and the College of Education at Agbor converted to University of Delta.

    “In Nigeria today, no state can boost of the number of state owned higher institutions that we have to the extent that out of our ten federal constituencies, nine have higher institutions.

    “In the last nine and half years, no higher institution in Delta has embarked on any strike. All the strikes you have seen across the federation our schools don’t join.

    “They don’t join because we try to meet up with those demands to ensure functionality of our institutions. We don’t just say go and put a polytechnic or a university somewhere without having a feasibility study.

    “It was a feasibility study that revealed university education had become much more attractive to our people and that was why we went that way.

    “We have not jettisoned the establishment of more institutions but we needed to move steadily such that we do not bite more than we can chew per time.”

    Speaking further, Aniagwu said a campus of the Southern Delta University was established at Orerokpe in the same federal constituency with Sapele and using facilities from the Technical College being constructed by the State Government.

    “Governor Oborevwori has been running fast and steadily on the lane of functional and efficient education system that caters to the needs of the present and future”.

    “As an administration, we do not have intention to abolish any institution so established but we will remain unwavering in our efforts at proceeding with educational needs assessment”

    He said the Oborevwori administration would continue to promote the trajectory of quality and functional education for Deltans in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda.