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Tag: Sheriff Oborevwori

  • Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh crisis: Gov Oborevwori strikes lasting peace

    Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh crisis: Gov Oborevwori strikes lasting peace

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Saturday, met with stakeholders of Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities in Udi and Warri South-West Local Government Areas of the state over the age-long land dispute.

    The meeting, which held at the Osubi residence of the Governor, had in attendance members of the peace committee of the Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh crisis.

    At the meeting, both parties agreed to live in peace and adhere to the terms of settlement agreeable to both communities.

    While addressing both parties, Governor Oborevwori commended youths and elders of both communities for agreeing to maintain and walk on the path of peace.

    He assured that he will soon make a pronouncement based on the terms of settlement agreed by both parties.

    Representatives of both communities thanked the Governor for his intervention and subsequent resolution of the age-long crisis.

    Recall that Governor Oborevwori had through the State Executive Council, approved the construction of the Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh road to ensure free movement of people across both communities.

  • Gov Oborevwori blows hot, threatens to revoke projects from contractors

    Gov Oborevwori blows hot, threatens to revoke projects from contractors

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has threatened to revoke projects from contractors that are not performing up to expectations in the State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Oborevwori issued the threat on Friday while inspecting Orere bridge under construction in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the State,

    During the inspection, Oborevwori disclosed that the state government prepares payment schedules on a weekly basis to pay contractors as they turn-in their certificates.

    He said his administration would no longer allow contractors to take projects they could not finish on time.

    He said the Orere bridge which was started by the previous administration, connects over fifteen riverine communities along the corridor.

    “This bridge is very key to several communities within this area, without this bridge, accessing those communities is very difficult.

    “So when this bridge is completed, it will be of very great benefit to about 15 communities around this area.

    “Like I promised before, we are also going to engage indigenous contractors and that is what we are doing.

    “Even though we are using some international companies, we also need to engage our local contractors and I think the quality of work is okay.

    “We need to encourage our local contractors, but I am not happy with the speed of work, the momentum is not okay, the contractor needs to step up activity”, he said.

    Continuing, Governor Oborevwori, said; “there is not enough speed on this job.

    “If we continue like this, how long will I be coming here for inspection? I believe that when I come again it should be for final inspection before commissioning.

    “So the contractor has till the end of this year to see what they will

    be able to do, even if we have to reduce their contract work in other places so they can concentrate.

    “This is imperative because we can’t just have contractors with so many contracts and moving from one site to another sampling equipment when we are going for inspection.

    “We will encourage contractors to take what they can do, when you finish your job on time, we will give you another job so that’s what we will be doing now.

    “Those who are having too many jobs, we are going to revoke some of them that are not performing but if you are performing no problem, but if you are not performing we will revoke your contract and give it to those who can perform.

    “Before now some will give excuses about payment but there is no excuse about that because we pay you if you have a certificate today, we will pay.

    “We don’t do cash budget on a monthly basis, we do it on a weekly basis to pay people. The contractor have to apply speed on this job because time is running.

    “By the time we are celebrating our second year anniversary, I should be able to have a lot of jobs to commission.

    “This inspection is to ascertain work done by these contractors and also look at their performance, so coming here today, the quality of work is okay for their standard, but there is no speed, we want speed on this job.”

    On the economic viability of the bridge, Governor Oborevwori said, “if there is no economic value there is no way we can put this kind of bridge here but moreover they are also Deltans and like we have promised that we will be fair and just to the people of Delta State.

    “From here you can access so many of these villages and bringing their products to the town instead of using boats they will just drive through and even people can come from outside to the communities to buy produce.

    “We have over five kilometers of road across because completing this bridge without the road we will not make much meaning to inhabitants of these communities.”

    The Governor also inspected the 46km Ohoror-Bomadi Road linking Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Burutu and Bomadi local government areas.

    “There was wild jubilation the day it was approved at the EXCO, and that shows that people are very happy. So it’s not only just to serve the Ijaw people, it also serves part of Urhobo people,” he said.

    At Edo Road, Ughell, which is being constructed with concrete, the governor commended the contractor for the quality of work done, adding that when completed with Asphalt overlay, the connecting roads would help reduce traffic around Otovwodo junction.

  • Accountability: Join me on projects tour – Oborevwori tells Omo-Agege, opposition

    Accountability: Join me on projects tour – Oborevwori tells Omo-Agege, opposition

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called on former Deputy Senate President (DSP), Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege and other opposition members in the state to join him on tour of projects.

    The governor said that the tour would help them see what his administration was doing with funds accruing to the state as well as address their ignorance.

    Oborevwori stated this while addressing newsmen on Wednesday after inspecting completed twin-bridges at Ubu River along Ughelli-Asaba Expressway.

    He described former DSP,  Sen. Omo-Agege’s criticism of his administration as a manifestation of ignorance and lack of knowledge of the workings of the government.

    The governor said that they should join him on the inspection of projects in order to appreciate his administration’s wise and judicious use of government funds.

    “I don’t want to join issues with my critics; some say we have gotten so much money and we are doing flyover for over N70 billion. How can flyover be N77 billion?

    “Let him come and see what we are doing with money; as a government, we have operated for almost 21 months and we have not borrowed a dime.

    “There is no contractor in the state that will say we are owing  him yet our multiple projects are moving smoothly.

    “Let him come and see what we are doing with our money; let him come and pass through this road and see the difference from when I took over and now.

    “It takes only one hour twenty minutes to get to Ughelli, his local government. The road is good,” Oborevwori said.

    The governor expressed delight on the completion of the twin bridges and the progress made on the road, and assured that the entire project would be ready for inauguration by the end of the year.

    He said, “few months ago when I passed through this place, I came here for an inspection and what I saw that time and coming today is a different story entirely.

    “It’s a come and see situation; you can see it and I am very happy today because this bridge has been causing a little problem on the construction of this road because without this bridge, the Sector C1 cannot be completed.

    “With what I have seen today, I know that come May 29 this place can be inaugurated. I am very happy with the good work of CCECC, the contractor for they are promise keepers.

    “Today, I am happy driving through this bridge for the first time. It gives me great joy and I give God the praise.”

    He said he had charged the contractors two months ago not to rely on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order as it would not give the state the needed mileage.

    “I told them that they should not rely on the schedule on the ISPO because if they are working according to ISPO, that will not give us mileage.

    “So, I told them if you finish your job in good time, your money will be paid in full and you can see the speed at which they are working now. There’s no fear again on this road.

    “This road from point kilometer 92 to point kilometer 117 it’s about 25 kilometers with the bridge. I am very happy that C2 is almost completed from that point 117 which is from Kwale Junction to point 138.6 is about 22 kilometers plus.

    “I believe that by the grace of God, this road that has been on for many years totalling about 143 kilometers, I am very sure that, by the end of this year, we will smile,” he said.

    At the Ofagbe bridge along the Isoko Ring Road,  Oborevwori said the state government would meet with the contractor to determine if he would continue with the project or not.

    He said that the 8-units of four bedroom duplex with attached boys quarters at Commissioners’ quarters, was embarked on to provide accommodation for the remaining members of executive council who were living outside the quarters.

    He said the project, which was 95 per cent completed, brought the total accommodation in the quarters to 30 and would be ready for inauguration in April.

  • Why Delta is education hub in Nigeria – Oborevwori

    Why Delta is education hub in Nigeria – Oborevwori

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, said the state had become the hub of tertiary education in Nigeria with four public universities and other higher institutions of learning owned and funded by the state government.

    Speaking during the inspection of projects at the Southern Delta University, Ozoro and Orerokpe campuses, Governor Oborevwori commended the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Jacob Oboreh, for investing the university’s internally -generated revenue (IGR) into the building of more projects in the university.

    According to him, “Delta State is the hub of education in Nigeria; we are the only state that has four public universities and, by the grace of God, more will come to Delta State.

    “This particular building initially was for the Management Sciences but later it was converted to Medical Sciences; outside this structure is another structure behind which would take the laboratory, the mortuary and other facilities, including some lecture halls.

    “There are other lecture halls in the main building, too; so, this is a full structure; when it’s completed, it will be able to house the medical school and we are very happy that the project is going on very well.

    “The good news about this school is that the National Universities Commission, NUC, has also confirmed the change of name from the Delta State University of Science and Technology to Southern Delta University and that will enable them get more courses.

    He stressed, “I know that very soon they will also approve Law and other courses in this university; so, I am very happy with the work.”

    Governor Oborevwori challenged other universities in the state to invest their IGR to improve their infrastructure.

    “I am very proud of what the university is doing by investing its IGR to build some structures here; as we were coming, you saw those two-storey buildings on the other side.

    “It is the university that is building them from their IGR and I like what the school is doing; they are not depending on only what the state is providing for them.

    “I challenge other universities to also use their IGR to develop their schools because if they depend on only what the state government will provide, we cannot grow.

    “But when they use their IGR and with what we are giving to them, subventions and structures, that will strengthen the school and we also make them improve very well; so, I am very happy with what is going on here.”

    On why universities in the state do not join their counterparts across the country on nationwide strikes, Governor Oborevwori said the state government “takes good care of the university staff, hence they have no reason to join the national strike”.

    His words; “we are giving them their subventions; all the requests they have made, we granted them. They are well paid and we are giving them facilities and all that; so, why would they strike?

    “We know the value of education and we want our people to go to school, because when they are educated, they will not be involved in criminality.

    “Idleness causes a lot of things. So, I believe in effective education because it is the source of one’s life. You may acquire everything on this earth but without education, you are nothing. So, education is very key and that is why I take it very seriously.”

    Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Jacob Oboreh, expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori on the progress made so far in the university,  particularly in the campus.

    He said the Orerokpe campus would house the Faculty of Administration, Social Sciences, and Arts, adding that the Faculty of Law would be introduced in due course.

    Oboreh added, “I am very satisfied with what is on ground; I am only appealing strongly to the contractor to increase the speed of work on this campus.

    “Because it’s our intention to move students here by September and we are talking about moving in about 3,000 students. So, my major appeal is that the contractor should accelerate the speed of work.

    “He has done much compared to when I came here last. He is doing very well and what is here meets NUC specification; I have no doubt about that. With one or two facilities added, we are done. In fact, what I have seen in some other universities, which are main campuses, they are not even as much as what we have here.

    “So, I must commend the Governor for this wonderful job he has done within this short time”.

  • OBOREVWORI: Transforming lives through potable water supply in Delta – By Festus Ahon

    OBOREVWORI: Transforming lives through potable water supply in Delta – By Festus Ahon

    By Festus Ahon

    Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right; yet, many communities in Nigeria still struggle to obtain it. In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has prioritized the provision of potable water, recognizing its vital role in public health, economic growth, and overall quality of life.

    Since taking office, he has taken significant measures to enhance water infrastructure, ensuring that both urban and rural communities benefit from sustainable potable water projects.

    Governor Oborevwori’s development agenda for Delta State places strong emphasis on infrastructure and social welfare, with potable water supply as a key priority.

    Recognizing the challenges many communities face—including inadequate boreholes and outdated pipelines—his administration has committed substantial resources to expanding and modernizing water facilities. His goal is clear: to provide as many Deltans as possible with access to clean water, reduce waterborne diseases, and improve daily living conditions.

    Through its partnership with the World Bank-Assisted Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Programme (SURWASH), the Oborevwori administration has launched several projects aimed at improving potable water access across the state.

    These include: Revamping Existing Water Schemes. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been rehabilitating water facilities, upgrading water treatment plants, and restoring broken pipelines. In cities such as Asaba, Warri and Ughelli, old waterworks are being revived to meet growing public demand for potable water.

    Expansion of water supply to rural communities which often suffer the most from potable water scarcity. To bridge this gap, the state government has initiated the drilling of solar-powered boreholes in remote areas. These boreholes are designed to provide a sustainable source of clean water, thus reducing the reliance on contaminated streams and rivers water.

    So far, so many water supply schemes have either been constructed or rehabilitated across several communities and cities across the state by the Oborevwori administration. They include: Rehabilitation of water supply at Issele- Uku, construction of water treatment plant at West End Secondary School, Asaba, Osubi Secondary School, Osubi, Evwreke Primary School, Osubi, construction of solar powered water supply at Amawa Layout, Oleh, Deghele, Tebu, Gbokoda, Ajamita, Udo, Oboghoro, Boji-Boji, Agbor, Umunede, Kwale, Obiaruku, Ughelli, Owa-Ekei, Owa-Alero, and Koko.

    Others are the rehabilitation of solar- powered water supply scheme at Oleh, Olomoro, Enwhe, Egbo-Igbide, Irri, Uzere, Bethel Town, Emede, Aviara, Erowha, Umeh, Owodokpokpo, Igbide, Ivrogbo, Ederhie, Araya, Okpe-Isoko, Afiesere, Uwheru, Unenurhie, Sanubi-Orogun, Ohoror, Agbarha-Otor, Agadama, Ikwegwu-Agbarho, Okpe-Orogun, Ewu, Emu-Unor, Oliogo-Umuseti, Ogo-Ikilibi, Igbe-Ogume,Ogbe-Ogume, Ogbole-Ogume, Ibrede, Umukwata, Umutu, Obinomba, Amai, Akoku, Edegbrode, Adeje, Ujovwe, Saniko, Omavovwe, Okpara-Agbarha, Oviri-Ogor, Aghalokpe, Orhokpokpo, Ewhawha, Edjegba-Agbarha, Eyara-Enwhe, Utuloho-Aviara, Okpare-Aviara, Emu-Obodeti, Umuseti-Ogbe, Umuse-Deli, Amoji, Lagos-Ogbe, Utagba-Ogbe, Utagba-Unor, Mereje, Okwuabude, Oviri-Okpe, Umiaghwa, Gudu-Gudu, Unurie-Aghalokpe, Ughwagba, Ghana Quarters, Obiaruku, Imiroje, Edjekemevor, among others.

    Speaking during one of the inspection visits to the projects, the State Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr Isaac Wilkie, lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his support leading to the massive transformation of the state’s water sector.

    He said the purpose of the inspection was to ensure that all errors observed were put together and rectified, adding that the state government was pursuing a tripartite power supply system through solar, generator and public power supply, to ensure continuous potable water supply across the state.

    However, recognizing that government resources alone might not be sufficient, the Oborevwori administration is engaging private sector players to invest in water infrastructure. These partnerships with NGOs and international agencies are helping to fund projects and ensure long-term maintenance of water supply facilities.

    Beyond providing infrastructure, the government is also enforcing policies to ensure proper water management. Agencies responsible for water distribution are being restructured to improve efficiency, while communities are being sensitized on the importance of water conservation and hygiene.

    The impact of these water sector initiatives extends beyond just providing clean drinking water; improved access to potable water is reducing the incidence of diseases such as cholera and typhoid, which are often linked to contaminated water sources.

    Additionally, women and children, who typically bear the burden of fetching water from distant locations, now have more time for other productive activities, including education and income-generating work.

    Despite these strides, climate change, population growth, and funding constraints pose ongoing threats to water security.

    However, Governor Oborevwori remains steadfast in his vision, continuously seeking innovative solutions to sustain water availability in the state. His administration is also looking into advanced water treatment technologies and enhanced monitoring systems to ensure quality and reliability.

    Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to potable water supply is transforming lives in Delta State. Through strategic investments, policy reforms, and community engagement, his government is laying the foundation for a future where every Deltan has access to clean, safe water. While challenges persist, the progress made so far is a testament to his dedication to improving the well-being of his people. With sustained efforts and collaboration, Delta State is on the path to achieving lasting water security.

    …Says his administration responds to critics with projects

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, within the week, said that his administration would continue to respond to criticisms with verifiable projects that are positively impacting the lives of Deltans.

    He noted that there had been a few members of opposition political parties in the state who were only functional on social media platforms, adding that “Deltans are aware of the projects executed by his administration in their localities and appreciate what his administration is doing for them”.

    Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori spoke on Thursday during the inauguration of Boji-Boji Owa Mixed Modern Market, Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State.

    He said, “the few members of the opposition political parties are only making noise on social media; our people are seeing and enjoying the projects we have executed in their communities. It is good that with verifiable projects, we are responding to our critics.”

    Sir Festus Ogbanzu, who spoke on behalf of impacted communities and Hon. Monday Odigwe, Chairman, Ika North-East Local Government, among others, who spoke at the occasion, thanked Governor Oborevwori for executing people -oriented projects in the state.

    …Seeks redesign of school curriculum for job creation

    Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, called for the effective redesign of academic curricula for graduates to have the technical know-how to be job and wealth creators.

    He made the call at the 4th Founder’s Day Celebration of the University of Delta, UNIDEL, Agbor, Delta State.

    Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori said; “quality, functional education is one of the priority areas of the MORE agenda of my administration. We believe that education is not merely about imparting knowledge; it is also about shaping character, fostering creativity, and equipping the students with the right skill-sets and mindsets that they need to excel in the global marketplace.

    “The major drawback of our current educational system is that it prepares the graduates for salaried employment.

    “As a government, we are determined to reverse the course by ensuring that technical and vocational education feature prominently in the academic curricular of our educational institutions, beginning from primary school; it is my earnest expectation that UNIDEL will ensure that the academic curricular is such that graduates from here will have the knowledge and technical know-how to be job and wealth creators.”

  • Oborevwori: From underdog to man of the people – By Igho Akeregha

    Oborevwori: From underdog to man of the people – By Igho Akeregha

    By Igho Akeregha

    Barely two years of his election as Governor of Delta state, Rt.Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori is not only winning awards and recognition for good governance, but the support of Deltans and Nigerians as he navigates the complex politics of the state. IGHO AKEREGHA examines his rising profile.

    He was an underdog before the elections in 2023. Counting days to the crucial Delta state gubernatorial election held on Saturday March 18th 2023, some of his closest political allies and friends deserted him to join the opposition.

    Undeterred, candidate Oborevwori, as he was then, navigated the complex political terrain of the state to win the election. He thus triumphed despite the intricate web of conspiracy and political adversity.

    The road to the Delta state Government House, known as “Dennis Osadebey House” was very rough and turbulent for Oborevwori.

    He defeated a formidable opponent, Chief Ovie Omo-Agege, a former Deputy President of the Senate who wielded massive political influence before the election, to emerge the fourth democratically elected governor of Delta state, created from the old Bendel state on August 27th, 1991.

    The topsy-turvy path for the governor was scary and unpredictable from the onset. Many considered him an underdog in the race. In the calculation of his opponents, he was least qualified. They therefore underrated him. But many in the opposition ignored two critical principles. The divine wish of God and personal destiny.

    These two principles worked in favour of Oborevwori to win the election. Since his victory,  he has been delivering massive economic development and unprecedented infrastructure across the three senatorial districts of the state.

    With his MORE Agenda, Oborevwori is breaking boundaries. He is pragmatically delivering meaningful development and creating opportunities for all Deltans, implementing realistic reforms across all sectors while also enhancing the peace and security of the state for development and harmonious coexistence.

    In less than two years in office, the Governor has undoubtedly entrenched his administration in the minds of many Deltans who admire him for his humility and accountability, virtues that have become potent weapons for subduing his critics.

    To achieve the objectives set out in the MORE development agenda, the Oborevwori administration  emplaced a Standing Committee on Projects Inspection headed by the Governor. The committee regularly visits project sites across the state to assess progress of ongoing projects.

    Whenever the Governor is not available to lead the team, the Deputy Governor takes charge and this approach, quite novel, is yielding results.

    During a recent tour of completed and ongoing projects by the Governor in Asaba and its environs, Oborevwori, who is known as a contractors nightmare for his meticulous scrutiny of projects warned that ” if you are my friend and you fail to do a good job, I am ready to sacrifice our friendship in the interest of Deltans”.

    Those who are close to the Governor, including engineers in the state ministry of works, are aware that he places a high premium on details as spelt out in the Bills of Quantity. Sources say that he does not  compromise on quality and standards and  anyone who does, faces instant penalties including contract revocation.

    Governor Oborevwori personally supervises projects across the state and physically takes measurements of rods and other construction materials including asphalt and cement quality to ensure conformity with requirements and integrity test of roads and structures.

    The administration, in February 2025, demonstrated that it would not tolerate under hand dealings and corruption in project execution when it demoted two serving engineers for issuing certificates of job completion on road projects which were yet to be completed.

    The affected officers, Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere and Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia, were demoted from Deputy Director to Assistant Director and Assistant Director to Chief Engineer respectively. The action was sequel to a letter conveying the outcome of a disciplinary committee signed by William O. Ogolokpe for the Head of Service.

    Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere was found culpable of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and was reduced in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Deputy Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 16 to that of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer), SGL 15 with effect from 1st January 2024.

    Similarly, Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia was indicted for corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and also reduced in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15 to that of Chief Civil Engineer, SGL 14 with effect from 1st January 2024.

    The action of the Governor immediately sent shock waves across the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the state government that the he will not spare erring officials. The action further demonstrates his resolve to wield the big stick against corruption and dishonesty when necessary.

    During a recent inspection of road projects in Asaba, the state capital and its environs, Oborevwori personally caught some of the contractors napping. This  resulted in the cancellation of some of the contracts over shoddy work while others were punished for abandoning site.

    As the inspection team comprising the Governor, Commissioners, Engineers and the State Press Corps drove round the sprawling Asaba metropolis and communities adjoining the state capital, some of the contractors who had abandoned their sites and others who merely showed their presence without adequate deployment to site quickly mobilised back to work.

    Many traders and market women trooped out to cheer the Governor as he walked on foot to inspect street roads and other ongoing projects in the capital city.

    Emotion ran high among the traders as the surging crowd called out his chieftaincy title of ‘Ukodo’,  translated to mean “There is enough for all”. Indeed, not a few Deltans are convinced that the Governor has enough infrastructure development for all.

    As the inspection progressed, the Governor’s security team had a hectic time controlling the mammoth crowd that turned out to catch a glimpse of their leader. Oborevwori who intermittently waved back at the crowd with a broad smile had to caution his security details to allow the people enjoy the rare moment.

    During his inauguration on May 29, 2023, Oborevwori promised to run an inclusive administration where the people will be the pivot of governance. Many residents in the state have commended him for adhering to this promise and they are happy.

    To ensure the success of its people-centric policy, the state government recently opened a telephone hotline where Deltans can track official accountability and directly report contractors who are delivering  sub standard and poor projects in their communities.

    Indeed, many Deltans agree that the administration is delivering good projects and infrastructure to every part of the state in equal measure without discrimination.

    Oborevwori has vowed that he is committed to specifically focusing his attention on Asaba, the state capital by transforming it to a modern city that every Nigerian would be happy to call a home.

    For the year 2025, the administration appears to be more determined to deliver life- changing projects for the state ahead of the Governor’s second year anniversary on May 29, 2025.

    Evidence of this renewed vigour to transform the state came during Oborevwori’s opening remarks at the maiden State Executive Council meeting for 2025 at the Exco Chamber in Government House on February 13, 2025. He had  revealed that the administration has lined up humongous projects across the three senatorial districts that will transform the entire landscape of the state.

    To ensure success of the new plan, the Governor urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to fastrack the process of awarding the projects in line with his administration’s M.O.R.E. agenda.

    Across the state, many projects have been delivered while others are at different stages of completion. Some ongoing road projects scheduled for delivery before May 2025 include the repairs of the Okirighwre-Benin road, construction of the Ughelli-Asaba expressway and the Issele-Azagba-Otulu road project in Aniocha North local government area.

    Others are Esezi road dualisation, Ayakoromo bridge and Trans-Warri roads and bridges. To combat flooding in Ugolo-Okpe, Okuokoko, Osubi and its environs, the administration has built storm drainages. It has also arrested flooding menace in Orerokpe, while construction work is ongoing in the Orerokpe – Okuloho – Oviri-Okpe – Aragba road.

    Apparently determined to positively alter the development trajectory of the state, the Oborevwori administration, in its February exco meeting approved a whopping N275 billion for the implementation of infrastructure in the three senatorial districts.

    Speaking to his cabinet during the meeting, Oborevwori said, “Today, Deltans will know that my administration is ready to do more for them. There are a lot we hope to achieve with today’s exco meeting because it promises to be the best exco meeting since our administration started.

    “We are touching all the Senatorial districts and all local government areas have been carried along with the huge amounts we are spending this period.

    “We are doing it so that the people will be happy and I want to advise the Ministries, Departments and Agencies to make sure they fast track the process of award of these contracts.

    He added that “We are already in February; we just have few months to the rainy season and I believe that we will have a lot of projects for inauguration during our second year anniversary in office” .

    Giving a breakdown of the projects, Mr Charles Aniagwu, Honourable Commissioner, Works (Rural) and Public Information said, “Virtually all the projects we approved today are coming with 40 per cent mobilisation without our government having to go and borrow, and that tells you how solvent we are as a state.

    Explaining the government’s effort in addressing housing deficit in the state,  Aniagwu disclosed that the state government had commenced the construction of 30 units of three bedrooms and 20 units of two bedrooms pilot phases in Ozoro, Kwale and Owa-Oyibu.

    He said the exco also approved the remodelling of the Warri City Stadium, construction of Uruagbesa Oria-Abraka road, phase 1; construction of Egodo-Ogbeinbene road and the construction of Faculty B at the Southern Delta University, Orerokpe campus.

    Others are the construction of Amai-Aragba road; construction of Inam-Abbi access road; construction of internal roads at Ugbolu Hilltop Government layout (Phase 1); the construction of Umuoshimi road with spurs to Ogbe-Aku and market road in Onicha-Ugbo; the construction of Okerenkoko – Pepeama – Kokodiagbene road with a spur to Teiteipur in Warri South-West, and the construction of Benikrukru Township roads (Phase II).

    Also approved are the rehabilitation of Bomadi-Gbaregolor road and the construction of Okwetolor – Okobia – Aragba roads.

    Aniagwu assured that these projects span different sectors targeted at giving value for money;  promoting urban renewal and making the cities much more liveable.

    Also approved are the rehabilitation of Bomadi-Gbaregolor road, the construction of Okwetolor – Okobia – Aragba Road; the construction of Ogbe-Isogban Road in Abavo; Owa-Ewere Road in Owa-Oyibu; approval for upward review of Ayakoromo bridge; the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Okpanam Road from Post Office Junction to Catholic Church Roundabout to Okpanam Bypass Junction.

    Equally approved are the construction of Iwride-Iyede internal roads (Phase 1); the construction of Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja Road phase 2, and the construction of Okwighele – Amuokpokpor Road, among others.

    The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, commended Governor Oborevwori for the massive provision of 40 per cent mobilisation for all the approved projects.

    He stated that no government in the state had shown more commitment to the sustained funding of projects than the Oborevwori administration.

    Izeze added that Governor Oborevwori had cleared outstanding certificates owed contractors, including N8 billion previously owed on the Trans-Warri road and bridges, as well as putting the project on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order, ISPO module.

    Izeze disclosed that additional storm drainage work was approved to take care of Koka Junction and Achalla-Ibusa area, in addition to what CCECC was doing around Winners’ Chapel on Ibusa Road.

    The Commissioner noted that the exco considered and approved the upward review of Ayakoromo bridge with provision for ISPO, adding that review of the design of cloverleaf on Effurun Roundabout to ensure property owners around the area were not encumbered was also approved.

    The administration is also serious with agriculture. It is partnering with Afritropic, an Agriculture based Service Provider to build Greenhouses in farm settlements at Mbiri, Ika North East LGA, at Kpakiama, Bomadi LGA and Deghele, Sapele LGA. The scheme, Accelerated Agricultural Development Scheme (AADS), a 2020 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) loan initiative, would engage 370,000 youth in agricultural production of 13 agricultural commodities. The state has also invested N1billion in counterpart funding in the partnership between Delta Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) and Africa Union Development Agency, New Partnership for African Development (AUDA/NEPAD).

    As at December 2024, 203,204 persons have been empowered under the D-CARES scheme, 5,426 persons received cash grants under the MORE Grant Scheme for petty traders, artisans and female entrepreneurs while 6,000 farmers were empowered with agricultural inputs to boost agricultural production in the state.

    In the health sector, the state government recorded over two million Deltans in the state’s health insurance scheme. The considerable annual premium of N7000 which guarantees access to 560 public and private hospitals in the state is being applauded as a game-changer.

    By July 2024, the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), has paid the bills of over 300 Cesarean Sections (CS) monthly at the cost of over N500,000.

    In December 2024, Delta State won $400,000 from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge. The award recognized the state’s efforts in improving primary healthcare.

    The award, given in recognition of Oborevwori’s health sector initiatives is further bolstered by the state’s recent approval to renovate over 150 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC) to deliver quality healthcare as first responders at the community level.

    The state government, during its exco meeting in February approved N1.6bn for the Contributory Health Scheme and a monthly release of N100 million  to ensure sustainability of health coverage for Deltans.

    Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the State Commissioner for Health disclosed that the Oborevwori administration recently approved the establishment of a Specialist Hospital at Osubi with Public Laboratory and Psychiatric Clinic; total rehabilitation of General Hospital, Ekpan and the completion of Library building at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara to boost admission intake for the university.

    With these achievements, it did not come as a surprise as the apex Urhobo Cultural Organisation, the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) inducted Oborevwori into its Hall of Fame.
    Many see this induction as an overwhelming endorsement and acceptance of the Governor who is one of their own for his sterling performance.

    The icing on the cake was the award by THISDAY as Governor of the Year for his stewardship in Delta. “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State was underrated,” said Chairman of THISDAY and ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena.

    “But in his 18 months in power he has not borrowed any cent from any bank and he keeps building infrastructure across the state.” In fact, to the doubters, including ‘those who may have underrated Oborevwori prior to 2023,’

    As the Governor’s performance profile rises, political pundits in the state predict that his critics may be mourning and ruing their fate with their political future increasingly becoming doomed .

    Some antagonists of Oborevwori who are scampering to find a strategic response to his popularity allege that the Governor concentrated more projects in the Delta central senatorial district where he comes from. They also accuse him of being too frugal and do not not give out free cash.

    The Governor has dismissed these claims but he previously acknowledged that the Delta central area, particularly Warri and its environs had for long been neglected in terms of good roads and other basic infrastructure.

    To address this challenge, he had to approve the creation of the Warri, Uvwie And Environs Special Area Development Agency ( WUEDA), to bridge the infrastructure deficit.

    While Oborevwori has seized every opportunity to assure Deltans that he remains committed to equal development of the state, current records of completed and ongoing projects and infrastructure shows that the Delta central area still lags behind.

    For example, in Ndokwa nation, Oborevwori approved award of contracts for the construction no fewer than 15 km of roads.

    Aniagwu who is from Delta North says “We have completed the Obi-Ibabu road which is over 4km awaiting inauguration, the Ndemili-Utagba Uno road and the Eweshi – Utagba-Uno roads.

    “We have also awarded a road in Amai which has progressed to stone base; at Aboh in Ndokwa East, work is also ongoing. “The Beneku bridge has been completed and the Governor has also awarded the construction of Asaba – Ase bridge in Ndokwa East linking Uzere in Isoko South.”

    Aniagwu disclosed that the State Government currently runs four public universities, adding that no state in the country could boast of a university in each of the Senatorial districts of the state.

    Responding to allegations of being financially conservative, sources close to the Governor insists that his preference is to utilise the resources of the state to deliver democracy dividends and quality infrastructure to all.

    But in spite his achievements, two prominent politicians in the state leads the pack in opposing the Oborevwori administration.

    Chief Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta North Senatorial district who has since defected from the Governor’s party, the People’s Democratic Party, PDP to the All Progressives Congress, APC, is one of his hardline critic.

    Nwoko claimed that he faced opposition from PDP leaders regarding his quest for the creation of Anioma State. In his words, “I left because I want to be able to get the support of the ruling party in the creation of Anioma state”

    The lawmaker further alleged that the Governor obstructed his efforts and refused to support key projects discussed during the election campaigns citing financial constraints.

    But Nwoko’s allegations have since suffered haemorrhage of logic as his ambition for the creation of Anioma state was dismissed along with 34 similar requests by the House of Representatives for failing to meet constitutional threshold.

    The billionaire politician has also not succeeded in getting his new party to approve any significant federal projects for his constituency.

    Nwoko also faced backlash from many Deltans who accused him of becoming a distraction to the state government and  reminded him to focus on his primary task of lawmaking.

    In the case of former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege whom Oborevwori defeated in 21 out of 25 local governments in the last elections, not a few believe that his criticism of the Governor is borne out of bitterness over the loss of the election.

    Omo-Agege had expressed frustration over the choice of Oborevwori as ThisDay Governor of the Year 2024. He took a jab at the award claiming he did not deserve it.

    For many Nigerians who are daily inundated with the achievements of the Governor, Omo-Agege’s belly-aching spews bitter venom over his current state of political hopelessness.

    A few of the awards and recognition underscores the Oborevwori’s four star performance since he came to office. ThisDay/Arise Governor of the Year 2024 for Infrastructure development and prudent financial management, Merit Award in recognition for outstanding contributions to the educational sector by the National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU Worldwide), in conjunction with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

    Others are the “Omorotomo of Urhoboland” by the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers led by the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe 1 and induction into the Urhobo Hall of fame for Good Governance. There are many more and still counting.

    Also, prominent Deltans and traditional rulers are queuing to support the transformation efforts of the Governor. His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri expressed confidence that the Governor has shown bold determination to rewrite Delta history, the respected monarch has said while evaluating Oborevwori’s performance.

    “Deltans made the right choice in election of Oborevwori” another verdict by the Pere of Akugbene-Mien who is 1st Vice Chairman, Delta State Traditional Rulers’ Council and King of Akugbene-Mien,

    For HRM Pere Luke Kalanama VIII,  “the leadership style of Governor  Oborevwori had proved satisfactory two years after his election and Deltans made the right choice”

    With more than two years left in his first tenure, it’s just about time for Oborevwori and his team to dance to the hit song by American R&B duo, McFadden & Whitehead, “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” from their debut album McFadden & Whitehead (1979).

    Indeed, Oborevwori, the home boy, can celebrate his achievements as he has surmounted all odds to  redefine good governance in Delta state.

  • “Omovudu” Sheriff Oborevwori – By Francis Ewherido

    “Omovudu” Sheriff Oborevwori – By Francis Ewherido

    I spent the three weeks in Delta State recently, the first time I am staying at home this long for a while. I went for some personal matters. My short stay on each visit in the past notwithstanding, Bendel State, now Delta State, is always on my mind. As an Urhobo man, you will either relocate home at some points in your life or you will be buried in your village when you die.

    Since I could not just be waiting until weekend for each of the activities that took place over three weekends, I decided to move around. I have been reading about the performance of the incumbent governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, since he assumed office. The opinions and assessments I have been reading are discordant. My mother always advised us while growing up that “you do not use another person’s eyes to look at life. You use your own eyes.” That’s what I decided to do. I love small projects that have great impact on the lives of regular people like capacity building, cottage hospitals, maternities in rural areas, government primary schools, good rural roads, etc. But I also love meaningful gigantic projects, not white elephant projects. My interest this time around was on the gigantic projects.

    My first port of call were the flyovers at PTI junction in Effurun and DSC roundabout. The magnitude of both flyovers were beyond my expectation. They are massive projects. I am particularly interested in both flyovers because the traffic in both places can be very frustrating and hellish. I have been trapped there a few times and I did not find it funny. People have also previously been killed by moving vehicles at PTI junction. Travelers from Bayelsa State/Rivers State to Lagos and fro have lost precious hours in both places. So both flyovers are not just massive projects but solution providers, and I love projects that provide solutions.

    I have heard some Deltans say the flyovers are of benefit to non-Deltans only, not Deltans. I disagree. Both flyovers are important to Deltans in Ughelli North LGA, other parts of Delta Central, Delta South and even Delta North. Before the Asaba International Airport, there was only one airport in Delta State at Osubi (it was an airstrip in Uvwie LGA) before it was relocated to Osubi in Okpe LGA. Many Deltans and non-Deltans missed their flights because of the gridlock caused by the absence of flyovers at both spots. These are legacy projects.

    I also went to see the flyover at Enerhen junction. I lived in Effurun and Warri before we moved to Ekpan, also in Uvwie, so I know the place very well.  Enerhen Junction was a nightmare in those days and still is with the traffic from Enerhen, Effurun and Warri meeting at the junction. There is a feeder road nearby which added to the madness. I once told the story about how my father abandoned his car at Udu Road and walked through some back roads (koror) to get home when we were living in Effurun in the early 80s. These are three projects have been dear to my heart and I criticized the past administrations for doing nothing about these projects. Now that Gov. Oborevwori is doing them, should I keep quiet? Not me; that’s witchcraft. He deserves his flowers. Gov. Oborevwori, take your flowers for these projects. What’s even more fascinating is the extent of work on the projects started less than 18 months ago. In the three weeks I was in Delta, each time I passed the PTI and DSC projects, there was progress.

    Enerhen junction has longer history of traffic gridlock that dates back to the 70s. Uvwie LGA and Warri South LGA (Warri metropolis, to be specific) had been built up by then at that point. Only the welcome and goodbye signboards informed you that you have crossed from one local government to the other. A permanent solution should have been provided by the military, but successive military and civilian governments did not provide a permanent solution in the form of a flyover. You have to give the incumbent governor his flowers for embarking on this project. The project is a real solution provider and a game changer.

    My next port of call was the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriage way. The dualisation project was started by the administration of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan. If you recall when Delta State was created in 1991, the old Delta Province was merged with Anioma, the Igbo-speaking part of Benin Province. Before then there was a single road with two lanes from Ughelli to Asaba. I know the route very well because my family lived in Ozoro, Isoko  North LGA headquarters, from 1973 to 1980 and we used to travel to Ughelli regularly. When I gained admission to University of Nigeria, Nsukka, I used to travel from Warri to Nsukka through the route which was down to Onitsha. It was always risky because of reckless drivers and bad portions of the road.

    The siting of the Delta State capital at Asaba meant increase in vehicular traffic, so dualising the road was a good move by the government of Uduaghan, but in my opinion, the pace of work was slow. When Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa took over as governor, he continued with the road dualisation project. I thought his government would complete it, but it didn’t. When Gov. Oborevwori took over, he promised to face the project with “absolute commitment and complete it.” Much of the work has been done. My trip from Ekpan to Asaba and back was smooth when I passed through the road. The only major construction work going on was at Osisa in Delta North. That spot has always been treacherous. I heaved a sigh of relief each time after passing the spot during my four-year stay at UNN. Right now, the two bridges at Osisa have been completed, but work is ongoing to put the bridges to use. I expect that road to be ready this year. The pace of work is commendable.

    Whatever my misgivings about the Uduaghan administration, I commend him for starting such a massive project like this. A 136km dual carriage road is a project very few states will dare to start. I also commend Okowa for continuing the project. But in relays, the anchor is the rallying point after breasting the tape. So the highest commendation will go to Oborevwori when the road is commissioned. For the records, not more than two kilometres of that road is in Delta Central where the governor comes from. The other 134kms are in Delta South and Delta North.

    When people grudge the governor for doing massive projects or concentrating in Delta Central, I shake my head. Ethnic politics and chauvinism are rife in Delta State like in Nigerian politics. There are mischief makers everywhere. I saw a post on the bridge linking Ndokwa East to Ndokwa West and commented on it. Someone reminded me that Okowa, not Oborevwori, initiated the project. I know that but if the anchor of a relay stumbles or drops the baton, the whole team loses out. If Oborevwori does not complete the bridge, it becomes an abandoned project and the Ndokwa Nation is back to square one in using pontoons and other boats to cross the river. Governance is a continuum, just like a relay race. Give honour to whom it is due.

    Another legacy project is the road from Warri to Ode Itsekiri, the ancestral home of the Itsekiris. I can’t recall the governor who started the project, but Oborevwori has assured that he will complete it. I could not go to see the project. I was also unable to go and see Orere bridge in Ewu Kingdom where I come from because I was exhausted, but I have been getting reports from Ewu. My father was the pioneer principal of Orere Grammar School. In addition, my late maternal grandmother has roots in Orere, but I have never been there because of the river separating Ewu Town from Orere. After almost drowning at age nine, I developed a phobia for travelling by water. I was very happy when Okowa started the construction of the Orere bridge. I thank Oborevwori for his commitment to complete the project this year. The project occupies a special place in my heart.

    I also took time to move around Warri, Uvwie and Asaba. I was impressed with the neatness of the roads in Warri. Some portions of the road down to the Warri Port constructed with concrete in the 70s are still in very good shape, although the surface of some portions are rough. The drainage work in Warri metropolis is massive. I could not visit the Warri Stadium under renovation because of tiredness. The only thing that depressed me in Warri was the deplorable state in which I saw Cavegina Primary School. It was an elite school in those days. It is in need of renovation.

    Uvwie LGA has done a few good things, but still has a lot to do. I told a top official of the local government my observations. Having done that. I prefer to leave it there. But I was happy to see the “rehabilitated” NNPC Housing Complex Road. Motorists used to avoid it because of the robberies that often occurred between 7pm and 6am. I would have been happier if the lanes were increased to four lanes like the portion near Airport Road without putting physical barriers in the median for ease of crossing the road by motorists and pedestrians who live there. There is space for two additional lanes, but the signboard said “rehabilitation,” not reconstruction, so no further comments. Hopefully, the whole road will be increased to four lanes in the future. Moving around the state, I just feel that if every local government ups its game, Delta State will be transformed faster. I passed through about nine local governments. Some local governments are doing well; others are just anonymous.

    Asaba City is on another level. It now looks like a real state capital. In the mid-80s before the creation of Delta State when I was passing through Asaba to Nsukka, it looked like an average sibling of its richer sibling, Onitsha, with many three and four storey buildings across the River Niger. When I went to Asaba in 1992 to deliver a letter to the then state governor, the late Olorogun Felix Ibru, I saw little improvements. It is a different ball game now. Some parts of Asaba now look like Ikoyi and Asokoro and more exciting government and private projects and developments are going on.

    By and large, I was happier during this visit than previously visits. I saw reasonable progress, although we still have a long way to go. I saw dilapidated schools, bad roads, uninspiring court buildings and environment, widespread poverty and hunger in the land, many youngsters who want to become rich without doing legitimate jobs, a high number of youngsters who are into prostitution, internet fraudsters and stories of rituals, but I am not discouraged because a journey of a 1,000 years begins with a step.

    I look forward to the signing of electricity bill into law. It will acceleration development and speed up industrialization across the state. I want us (Deltans) want to develop the agricultural sector and open rural roads. We have the capacity be self-sufficient in food production. We need to re-orientate our young population to appreciate dignity of labour and painstaking process of wealth creation, protection and sustenance, not this candle-in-the-wind kind of wealth. We need develop our tourism sector. The potentials are enormous. We need to diversify Delta State economy and increase ability to earn more. To achieve this the state government needs to work with our federal legislators to make the Warri, Sapele, Koko, Bomadi and Okwagbe ports come alive. The impact on job and wealth creation will be massive. Like Lagos, we should strive to be self-sustaining and be financially comfortable without going to Abuja. It is possible but we need peace to accelerate every sector. Unlike Lagos, intra-state rail lines are not a priority. It’s a project for the future. Let’s instead fix our roads and provide safe water transportation and open the rural areas. Delta State is both riverine and upland.

    I added Omovudu to the governor’s name in the title of the article. Omovudu in Urhobo means a courageous child, a child with a lion heart, a child who takes a stroll where angels dread to tread. This is exemplified by the massive projects left by his predecessors which Oborevwori is completing and the new ones he embarked on. I love progress and feel happy it wherever I see it in Nigeria as a diehard Nigerian. Seeing it in my state made me extra happy.

     

    Francis Ewherido is a Newsguru columnist.

  • Delta EXCO approves N275bn worth of projects [SEE FULL LIST]

    Delta EXCO approves N275bn worth of projects [SEE FULL LIST]

    The Delta State Executive Council at its maiden meeting for 2025 on Thursday approved projects worth over N270 billion, spread across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the SEC meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was held at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba.

    The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who briefed the press after the meeting, said the approvals were record-breaking, outstanding and deafening to critics.

    Flanked by his counterparts in Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Reuben Izeze; Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen; Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme; the Director-General, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah; his counterpart in Warri Uvwie and environs, Prince Godwin Ejinyere, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, Mr Aniagwu said Governor Oborevwori was determined to ensure Deltans get value for every money spent on projects in the state.

    He said; “Not long ago, we informed you that Governor Oborevwori is not interested in joining issues with critics but will be responding to them with projects.

    “But little did we know that his response is going to be so outstanding and deafening that even those who have some audio challenge will hear the sound.

    “Today, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led us to make history since the 34 years existence of Delta State where, in one Exco meeting over N275 billion worth of projects were approved for the good people of Delta cutting across the three senatorial districts.

    “These projects span different sectors targeted at giving value to our people; improving connectivity by way of roads, advancing their health by way of efforts in the health sector and, of course, urban renewal by making our cities much more liveable.

    “Virtually all the projects we approved today are coming with 40 per cent mobilisation without our government having to go and borrow, and that tells you how solvent we are as a state, thanks to the very accountable and transparent governance philosophy of Governor Oborevwori.”

    He said the Exco also approved the remodelling of the Warri City Stadium, describing it as a bold step to ensure that legacy projects were not in short supply in the state.

    He listed the approved projects to include construction of Uruagbesa Oria-Abraka Road, phase 1; construction of Egodo-Ogbeinbene Road, and the construction of Faculty B at the Southern Delta University, Orerokpe campus.

    Others are the construction of Amai-Aragba road; construction of Inam-Abbi access road; construction of internal roads at Ugbolu Hilltop Government layout (Phase 1); the construction of Umuoshimi Road with spurs to Ogbe-Aku and market road in Onicha-Ugbo; the construction of Okerenkoko – Pepeama – Kokodiagbene road with a spur to Teiteipur in Warri South-West, and the construction of Benikrukru Township Roads (Phase II).

    Also approved are the rehabilitation of Bomadi-Gbaregolor road, the construction of Okwetolor – Okobia – Aragba Road; the construction of Ogbe-Isogban Road in Abavo; Owa-Ewere Road in Owa-Oyibu; approval for upward review of Ayakoromo bridge; the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Okpanam Road from Post Office Junction to Catholic Church Roundabout to Okpanam Bypass Junction.

    Equally approved are the construction of Iwride-Iyede internal roads (Phase 1); the construction of Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja Road phase 2, and the construction of Okwighele – Amuokpokpor Road, among others.

    Aniagwu said the Exco approved the presentation of staff of office to Obi Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area, the appointment of Obi Ben Azubuike Kanegede as the Ogene of Ibedeni in Ndokwa East; the appointment of Augustine Nzemeke Ezeaguna III, Obi of Egbudu-Aka Kingdom and the approval of Olodu as an autonomous community in Aniocha South Local Government Area.

    The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, commended Governor Oborevwori for the massive provision of 40 per cent mobilisation for all the approved projects.

    He stated that no government in the state had shown more commitment to the sustained funding of projects than the Oborevwori administration.

    Izeze added that Governor Oborevwori had cleared outstanding certificates owed contractors, including N8bn previously owed on the Trans-Warri Road and bridges, as well as putting the project on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order, ISPO module.

    He said additional storm drainage work was approved to take care of Koka Junction and Achalla-Ibusa area, in addition to what CCECC was doing around Winners’ Chapel on Ibusa Road.

    Izeze disclosed that Exco also approved the upward review of Ayakoromo bridge with provision for ISPO, adding that review of the design of cloverleaf on Effurun Roundabout to ensure property owners around the area were not encumbered was also approved.

    On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, said Exco approved N1.6bn for the Contributory Health Scheme and a monthly release of N100m to ensure sustainability of the health coverage for Deltans.

    He said Exco equally approved the establishment of a Specialist Hospital at Osubi with Public Laboratory and Psychiatric Clinic; total rehabilitation of General Hospital, Expan, and the completion of Library Building at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, to ensure an increase in admission intake for the university.

  • Gov Oborevwori orders MDAs to fast track process of awarding contracts

    Gov Oborevwori orders MDAs to fast track process of awarding contracts

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has advised Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the State government to fast track the process of awarding contracts.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Oborevwori gave the advice on Thursday in his opening remarks at the maiden State Executive Council meeting for 2025.

    Speaking at the Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba, where the meeting was held, Oborevwori said his administration was poised to deliver life-changing projects for the people ahead of his second year anniversary.

    He said his administration had lined up humongous projects across the three senatorial districts and urged the MDAs to fast track the process of awarding the projects in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.

    “Today is the first Exco meeting of the state this year and we are happy to make use of this dry season to achieve a lot in our infrastructure drive.

    “Today, Deltans will know that my administration is ready to do more for them. There are a lot we hope to achieve with today’s Exco meeting because it promises to be the best Exco meeting since our administration started.

    “We are touching all the Senatorial districts and all local government areas have been carried along with the huge amounts we are spending this period.

    “Deltans will be very happy and that is what we want. We are doing this in line with our MORE Agenda because we have promised Deltans that we are going to advance the state through the MORE Agenda and that is what we are doing.

    “We are doing it so that the people will be happy and I want to advise the Ministries, Departments and Agencies to make sure they fast track the process of awarding these contracts.

    “We are already in February; we just have a few months until the rainy season and I believe that we will have a lot of projects for inauguration during our second year anniversary in office,” Governor Oborevwori said.

  • Isoko North PDP endorses Oborevwori for 2027

    Isoko North PDP endorses Oborevwori for 2027

    The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, have endorsed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second term come 2027 general elections.

    This was sequel to a motion for a vote of confidence on Governor Oborevwori moved by Chief Sam Egwerome at an extended leadership meeting of the party held at Erawha-Owhe.

    Moving the motion, Egwerome said: “We have all witnessed the developments going on around the state from Delta North to South and Central and the wonders going on around Warri and Effurun where flyovers of highest standards are being executed by Julius Berger, reminiscence of any place abroad.

    “Just recently, our Governor was given award as one of the best Governors in the country by THISDAY/ARISE Media Group and that is the best award any Governor can get.

    “In our Isoko North here, he has completed the Emevor-Orogun road phase one while phase two is going on smoothly, the Isoko Section of the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway has reached advanced stage.

    “He has also renamed our University to ensure creation of more programmes including the introduction of College of Health Sciences and College of Health Technology at Ovrode, among others.

    “So far, our dear Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is the best performing Governor in Nigeria and we look forward to greater things from him than he is doing today.

    “Therefore as constituted today as leaders representing all the 13 Wards of Isoko North that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is doing us proud in Isoko North.

    “That all of us are unanimously united in endorsing him for second term in 2027, therefore I move a motion of vote of confidence on our performing, Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,”

    The motion which was seconded by immediate past Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Iteire and was unanimously endorsed following a voice vote put by pioneer Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Okoro.

    In his welcome remarks, Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko thanked party leaders and stakeholders for their steadfastness and loyalty to the leadership and the party as a whole.

    He said the leadership has put aside all differences promising to intensify efforts at keeping the party together.

    “Let me assure you all that we are poised to eliminate every opposition in Isoko North and Isoko Nation as a whole.

    “We will continue to fight for what is so dear to our heart which is to deliver our governor and win all our elections come 2027. We need to work very hard and campaign for all our elections come 2027.

    “So let us go back to our various wards and reach out to everybody in your wards. We need to eliminate factions and divisions and we must turn out the votes because we have the votes and the only way we can do that is to remain united.

    “Let us use the party structure to bring everybody on track. Let us therefore put our differences aside and put our Governor in the forefront.

    “So in all you are doing ask yourself is this going to promote the Governor’s interest? We must therefore work to bring all our people that left for the opposition back to the party.” he added.

    In their remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme; Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council Hon. Godwin Ogorugba and the State Organising Secretary of the party, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor appealed to the party leaders and stakeholders to work in unity for the interest of the party.

    “Governor Oborevwori has the interest of the common man at heart especially with his people-oriented projects and programmes, so let us come together to work for the unity of the party from the Wards to the LGA.”

    At the meeting, a minute silence was observed in honour of departed leaders of the party including late Hon. G.O.T. Itobi; former Secretary to the State Government, Sir Simeon Efenudu, Chief Tommy Baro and mother in-law to the Council Chairman, Mrs Titi Sarah Ogwonogho.