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Commonwealth Governance Ranking: Delta’s Emergence as Nigeria’s No. 2 State and Strengthening Performance Trajectory Under Oborevwori

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Hill Nigeria
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By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq.

Independent governance assessments have become increasingly important in evaluating public administration outcomes across Nigeria. In an era where evidence-based performance metrics are gaining prominence, governance indices provide useful benchmarks for measuring institutional effectiveness, service delivery, and development impact.

The 2025 Governance Performance Index released by the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) offers one such benchmark. Renowned for its policy research and governance evaluation, the institute assesses state administrations using indicators that measure infrastructure delivery, administrative effectiveness, fiscal management, accountability systems, and human capital development outcomes.

In its latest report, Delta State ranked second among Nigeria’s 36 states, scoring 70 percent and placing ahead of several states traditionally regarded as leaders in governance and development administration. The ranking reflects the steady progress being recorded under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and affirms the growing recognition of Delta State as one of Nigeria’s leading subnational governments.

More significantly, the ranking highlights the impact of the MORE Agenda; Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security, which continues to serve as the administration’s strategic roadmap for sustainable growth and inclusive development. Across the state’s 25 local government areas, the evidence of purposeful governance is increasingly visible.

Since assuming office, Governor Oborevwori has remained focused on consolidating ongoing projects while introducing new initiatives designed to accelerate development and improve the quality of life of citizens. At the heart of this effort is a robust infrastructure renewal programme that is transforming urban, semi-urban, and rural communities across the state. In major urban centres such as Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Sapele, Agbor, Abraka and Effurun, road reconstruction, drainage expansion, and urban renewal projects are enhancing mobility, stimulating commerce, and creating a more conducive environment for economic growth.

Simultaneously, investments in rural road networks and erosion-control projects are opening up communities, strengthening connectivity, and expanding access to opportunities. One of the most commendable aspects of the administration’s development strategy is its commitment to inclusive growth. Riverine and previously underserved communities are benefiting from targeted interventions aimed at ensuring that the dividends of development reach every part of the state. This balanced approach has reinforced social cohesion while promoting equitable development across Delta’s diverse geographical landscape.

Human capital development remains another major pillar of the administration’s achievements. Through youth empowerment programmes, skills-acquisition initiatives, and support for small and medium-scale enterprises, thousands of young people and entrepreneurs are being equipped with the tools needed to participate meaningfully in the economy and contribute to the state’s prosperity.

The administration’s forward-looking approach to energy development is also positioning Delta State for greater economic expansion. Initiatives designed to improve energy access, encourage private-sector participation, and support productive enterprises are strengthening the investment climate and creating new opportunities for industrial growth.

In the education sector, sustained investment in school rehabilitation, facility upgrades, and institutional support programmes is improving learning environments and strengthening educational outcomes. These interventions are helping to prepare the next generation for success in a rapidly evolving global economy.

The healthcare sector has likewise recorded significant progress through facility upgrades, modern medical equipment acquisition, and improved service-delivery systems. These investments are enhancing access to quality healthcare and strengthening public confidence in the state’s health infrastructure.

Delta State’s longstanding leadership in sports development continues to receive strong support through investments in sporting facilities, athlete development, and youth engagement programmes. Beyond competitive success, these initiatives provide opportunities for talent discovery, youth empowerment, and community development.

A defining characteristic of the Oborevwori administration is its commitment to continuity, stability, and effective implementation. By building on existing successes while introducing innovative solutions, the administration has created a governance environment that promotes efficiency, inspires confidence, and accelerates development outcomes.

The significance of Delta State’s performance in the CIAPS Governance Performance Index extends beyond its ranking. It reflects the success of deliberate planning, prudent resource management, strong institutional coordination, and a clear commitment to delivering tangible benefits to the people.

Within the broader national context, the ranking underscores Delta State’s emergence as a model of effective governance and development-focused leadership. It demonstrates that consistent policy implementation and people-centred governance can produce outcomes that attract national recognition and public trust.

As the state continues to advance under the MORE Agenda, the prospects for even greater achievements remain bright. Ongoing investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and social development are laying a stronger foundation for sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

For now, the most compelling story is the emergence of Delta as one of Nigeria’s best-governed states, a distinction increasingly earned through visionary leadership, strategic investments, and measurable development outcomes. The state’s impressive performance in the CIAPS Governance Performance Index is not merely a ranking; it is a testament to the effectiveness of policies and programmes that continue to transform lives and strengthen communities across Delta State.

Congratulations to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, hia deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, members of the State Executive Council, and the good people of Delta State. Indeed, Delta is on the rise again.
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Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., is a member of the Institute of Legal and Policy Strategy (ILPS) and Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Governor’s Office, Asaba.

Olive Court Residents Laud Ned Nwoko for Donating 500KVA Transformer

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Hill Nigeria
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Residents of Olive Court in Okpanam, Delta State, have expressed appreciation to the senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko, for donating a 500KVA electricity transformer to the community.
The appreciation was conveyed by the Olive Court Landlords Association, which described the donation as a timely intervention that would address the community’s longstanding electricity challenges.
According to the association, residents had endured years of poor power supply and were frequently compelled to contribute money for the repair of faulty transformers. It noted that the new transformer would bring relief to households and businesses by improving electricity supply and reducing the burden of constant maintenance costs.
The association commended Senator Nwoko for what it described as his commitment to delivering practical solutions to the needs of his constituents, saying the donation demonstrated responsive leadership and a focus on community development.
It added that the intervention would contribute to improving the quality of life and boosting economic activities within the estate and the wider Okpanam community.
In a viral video, the outgoing President-General of the Okpanam Youth Organization, Hon. Lucky Anthony Okolo, the community thanked the senator for fulfilling his promise and standing with the people of Olive Court.
Okolo also prayed for God’s continued strength and wisdom for Senator Nwoko as he continues to serve the people of Delta North.

PDP BoT Chairman, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, Visits Chief Bode George in London …Conveys Party’s Get-Well Prayers

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Hill Nigeria
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In a rare demonstration of love, care, and camaraderie unique to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Adolphus Wabara, on behalf of the party, paid a get-well visit to one of the founding fathers and pillars of the PDP; a member of the BoT, Chief Bode George, after his eye surgery in London.

Senator Wabara, on behalf of the party, prayed with Chief George and thanked God for the successful surgery and speedy recovery

The BoT Chairman used the visit to convey the love and good wishes of the PDP family worldwide to Chief Bode George, whose enduring selfless service and contributions toward the success of our great party, our nation, Nigeria, and humanity in general continue to distinguish him as a statesman and patriot.

Party leaders, stakeholders, and teeming members across the board salute Chief Bode George for his courage, steadfastness, and unwavering stand in fighting for the survival of the PDP and multi-party democracy in Nigeria, especially at this trying time in the history of our party and nation.

The BoT and, indeed, all members of the PDP once again wish Chief George a speedy recovery and a safe return to Nigeria to continue his patriotic service to our party and the nation.

Delta State Governor, Oborevwori Extols Pastor Adekunle Ojo At 60

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Pastor Adekunle Emmanuel Ojo of Living Faith Church, Egba, Benin City, on the occasion of his 60th birth anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori, in a statement issued on Saturday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Pastor Ojo as an impactful servant of God whose dedication to the advancement of Christianity and the spiritual growth of countless believers has continued to inspire many.

The governor particularly acknowledged Pastor Ojo’s role as the former pastor in charge of the Living Faith Church branch in Osubi, noting that his ministry left an enduring legacy of faith, service, and community development.

He said Pastor Ojo’s commitment to preaching the gospel, mentoring the younger generation, and promoting moral values had positively influenced lives across different communities.

Oborevwori commended the cleric for his humility, integrity, and steadfast devotion to the work of God, describing him as a worthy example of selfless leadership in the body of Christ.

The governor noted that Pastor Ojo’s six decades of life have been marked by remarkable service to God and humanity, adding that his contributions to Christendom remain invaluable.

While wishing him continued good health, divine grace, and greater accomplishments in the Lord’s vineyard, Oborevwori prayed that God would grant him many more fruitful years of impactful ministry and service.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate Pastor Adekunle Emmanuel Ojo on his 60th birth anniversary. Your life of faith, dedication, and service to God and mankind remains a source of inspiration. I pray that God grants you many more years of good health, wisdom, and fulfilment,” the governor stated.

DELTA 2027: Peace In Warri Is More Important Than My Ambition; Mulade Tells Residents

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State-born renowned peace ambassador and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has expressed deep concern over the rising tension in Warri and its environs in Delta State.

The NDC candidate in the recently concluded party primaries expressed displeasure over the actions of various individuals who are whipping up ethnic sentiments, engaging in blackmail, and using inciting words over the outcome of a party primary, rather than concentrating on winning the 2027 general elections.

It has become pertinent to strongly appeal to all residents and supporters to work towards unity and sustainable peace in Warri and its environs, which would attract development and create employment opportunities for our teeming youths, particularly in Warri, the commercial nerve centre of our dear Delta State.

The Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West LGA sincerely commended and appreciated the Itsekiris, Ijaws, Urhobos, and other residents of Warri Federal Constituency for supporting peace and unity despite provocative statements and acts of incitement. He stressed that peace in Warri and its environs is more important than his personal ambitions.

Therefore, he humbly appealed to all residents to embrace peace, unity, and progress devoid of ethnic bias and hatred that may trigger conflict or crisis in Delta State.

The development advocate called on all residents of Warri to support and promote peaceful coexistence, collaborative efforts, and complement the efforts of the Delta State Governor in delivering the dividends of infrastructural development to the people of Warri and its environs.

“It is imperative to state that no meaningful development can be achieved amidst crisis and conflict,” he asserted.

Lagos PDP Condemns Alleged ‘Extortion Is Here To Stay’ Remark, Accuses APC Government of Normalising Corruption

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Hill Nigeria
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The Lagos State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned an alleged statement credited to the Senior Special Assistant on Transportation Logistics to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Hon. Hassan Adekoya, in which he reportedly declared that “extortion is here to stay” during an appearance on Arise Morning Show on June 3, 2026.

In a statement signed by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Prince Dr. Christopher Odianarewo, the PDP described the remark as a shocking admission that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration in Lagos had effectively surrendered to corruption and institutionalised extortion within the Apapa port corridor.

The opposition party argued that rather than confronting criminal activities and illegal practices in the area, the government appeared to be normalising them.

According to the PDP, the alleged comment exposes what it described as the failure of the Sanwo-Olu administration and the APC to tackle the persistent problem of extortion, illegal checkpoints, and exploitation that have long affected businesses, transport operators, and commuters operating around the Apapa port corridor.

The party noted that the activities of extortionists have significantly increased the cost of doing business, contributed to rising prices of goods, and discouraged investment in one of the nation’s most important commercial hubs.

“The comment reinforces the growing public perception that the APC government is either unwilling or incapable of addressing corruption and economic sabotage. No responsible government should present extortion as a permanent feature of governance,” the statement said.

The Lagos PDP further called on anti-corruption agencies, regulatory bodies, and law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to dismantle extortion networks operating within the port corridor and restore public confidence in governance.

The party also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue demanding accountability from public office holders.

It stressed that sustainable national development cannot be achieved where corruption and extortion are treated as inevitable realities.

“As always, we remain confident that truth, transparency, and justice will prevail, and that every act contrary to the public interest will ultimately be exposed,” the statement added.

The PDP maintained that Nigerians deserve leaders and governments committed to fighting corruption rather than appearing to justify or tolerate it.

Oborevwori’s Governance Earns Delta Second Place in National Ranking

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State has been ranked as the second-best governed state in Nigeria under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, according to the 2025 Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) Governance Performance Index (CGPI).

The latest governance ranking placed Delta State second nationwide with a score of 70 per cent, closely following Kaduna State, which topped the index with 73 per cent.

The ranking highlights the growing recognition of Governor Oborevwori’s administration for its performance in governance, infrastructure development, public service delivery and overall management of state affairs.

The CIAPS Governance Performance Index assessed the performance of governors across Nigeria’s 36 states, measuring governance outcomes and the effectiveness of public administration.

Governor Oborevwori’s second-place ranking places Delta ahead of 34 out of the 36 states in Nigeria, including Anambra, Niger, Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Oyo, Enugu and Borno, which completed the top ten positions.

According to the report, Kaduna State, under Governor Uba Sani, emerged first with 73 per cent, while Delta State followed closely with 70 per cent.

Anambra State, led by Governor Charles Soludo, ranked third with 65.5 per cent, while Niger State under Governor Mohammed Umar Bago placed fourth with 65.1 per cent.

Ekiti State, governed by Biodun Oyebanji, came fifth with 64.5 per cent, while Akwa Ibom and Lagos States, led by Governors Umo Eno and Babajide Sanwo-Olu respectively, each scored 64 per cent to occupy the sixth and seventh positions.

Oyo State under Governor Seyi Makinde secured eighth place with 61 per cent, followed by Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah with 56.5 per cent. Borno State, led by Governor Babagana Zulum, completed the top ten with 54 per cent.

In the middle-tier category, Kwara, Abia, Ondo, Nasarawa, Osun, Ogun, Kano, Kogi, Edo and Jigawa occupied positions 11 to 20.

The report also identified the lowest-performing states, with Taraba State ranking last among the 36 states with a governance score of 20 per cent. Yobe, Benue, Rivers, Plateau and Kebbi were also among the bottom performers.

The strong showing by Delta State is expected to reinforce growing public confidence in the Oborevwori administration’s MORE Agenda, which has driven extensive investments in roads, bridges, healthcare, education and other critical sectors across the state.

The ranking further reflects the impact of ongoing development projects and governance reforms being implemented by the administration, positioning Delta among the leading states in Nigeria in terms of governance performance and service delivery.

The Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies noted that the Governance Performance Index serves as a benchmark for evaluating the effectiveness of state governments and promoting accountability, transparency and sustainable development across the federation.

Sunday Igboho Spits Fire: I Will Name Politicians Behind Oyo Students’ Abduction

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Hill Nigeria
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Yoruba activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has vowed to reveal names of perpetrators behind the abduction of students in Oyo State.
Igboho made the revelation while playing host to the new executive members of the National Association of Nigerian Students at his residence in Ibadan, the state capital.
He said he knew the politicians behind the act, and failure to desist from their evil acts, he will mention their names
According to him, efforts to to fight against banditry have been opposed by the state government
While claiming that the politicians were the ones equipping the bandits with money and ammunition, he said given the opportunity to go in search of the abducted victims, their adbuctors will flee.
According to him, he has been opposed by the state government from operating despite the federal government’s approval his security network christened “Iru Ekun,with the excuses that his presence in the forest to confront the kidnappers could lead to the death of the victims.

Integrity Group Set to Launch Grassroots Mobilisation Campaign Across Delta’s 25 Local Government Areas

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State chapter of the Integrity Group of Nigeria has announced plans to commence a statewide grassroots mobilisation tour across the 25 local government areas of Delta State as part of efforts to strengthen its support base ahead of future political engagements.

The initiative, aimed at strengthening support for the All Progressives Congress (APC), will feature stakeholder engagements, town hall meetings, community dialogues, membership drives, and consultations with youths, women, traditional rulers, professional groups, religious leaders, and market associations.

According to the group, the mobilisation tour is aimed at strengthening its grassroots presence, engaging party supporters, and promoting unity among members ahead of future political activities in the state.

Speaking during a meeting held in Asaba, leaders of the group said the campaign would involve consultations with community leaders, youths, women groups, and party stakeholders across the state. They noted that the initiative is designed to deepen political awareness and encourage greater participation in governance and democratic processes.

The group’s coordinator explained that the tour would also provide an opportunity for residents to express their concerns and expectations from political leaders, adding that the Integrity Group remains committed to people-oriented leadership and development.

Speaking on the planned tour, the group’s National Convener and Director-General, Dr. Oke Idawene, said the exercise is designed to promote civic engagement and assess the impact of government programmes at the grassroots level.

Idawene noted that the tour is intended to consolidate support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, and the APC in Delta State.

The group’s leadership, including Delta State Chairman Comrade Bolum Martins, called on members, APC stakeholders, youths, women, and supporters across the state to actively participate in the mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections.

Senate Approves Malaria Elimination Agency Bill, Nwoko Says Nigeria Can Defeat Disease

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Hill Nigeria
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The Senate has passed the National Agency for Malaria Elimination Bill, a development Senator Ned Nwoko described as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s efforts to eradicate malaria and improve public health outcomes.
Nwoko, who represents Delta North and sponsored the bill, said the legislation marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against one of its deadliest and most persistent diseases. According to him, Nigeria now has the opportunity to shift from merely controlling malaria to completely eliminating it.
Speaking after the bill passed its third reading, the lawmaker expressed confidence that malaria elimination is achievable, citing several countries that have successfully overcome the disease. He stressed that with strong leadership, effective coordination, and sustained commitment, Nigeria and the rest of Africa can achieve similar results.
The bill, titled A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Agency for Malaria Elimination and for Related Matters, 2025 (SB.172), seeks to establish a specialised agency that will coordinate a nationwide, data-driven approach to malaria prevention, control and elimination. Following its second reading in May 2025, the proposal was reviewed by the Senate Committee on Health before receiving final approval.
Nwoko explained that the proposed agency would provide the structure needed to coordinate research, disease surveillance, environmental management, public awareness campaigns and other malaria elimination initiatives across the country. He noted that the Senate’s approval reflects years of advocacy and dedication to tackling malaria in Africa.
The senator recalled his longstanding efforts to draw international attention to the disease, including a symbolic trip to Antarctica nearly two decades ago. He said he had previously championed similar legislation as a private citizen but revived the initiative after being elected to the Senate.
He lamented that malaria continues to claim thousands of lives annually, especially among children and vulnerable populations, despite being preventable and treatable. Nwoko argued that Nigerians must stop accepting the disease as a normal part of life and instead focus on its elimination.
The bill received strong backing during consultations organised by the Senate Committee on Health. The committee sought public input through newspaper and electronic media advertisements before holding a public hearing attended by health professionals, government agencies, civil society groups and development partners.
Among those who participated were representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Justice, NAFDAC, the Nigeria Medical Association, the Joint Health Sector Union, the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria, the Nigeria End Malaria Council and other public health organisations.
Stakeholders overwhelmingly supported the proposal, emphasizing the need for a dedicated institution focused solely on malaria elimination. Lawmakers also adopted the term “elimination” rather than “eradication” to align with globally accepted public health terminology.
Addressing concerns about overlap with the existing National Malaria Elimination Programme, the committee stated that the new agency would serve as the central coordinating body for malaria-related interventions nationwide. It also noted that current efforts are largely focused on treatment, with less attention given to prevention and long-term elimination strategies.
Under the proposed legislation, the agency would establish offices across the country and implement a national strategy that coordinates malaria interventions at federal, state and local government levels.
Nwoko further advocated greater investment in environmental sanitation, waste disposal, fumigation, research and innovation to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. He stressed that resources committed to saving lives are always worthwhile and called for urgent action to reduce malaria-related deaths.
He added that the agency would work closely with states, local governments and communities to ensure malaria elimination programmes reach grassroots populations.
With Senate approval secured, the bill will now be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.
If signed into law, the National Agency for Malaria Elimination is expected to become one of Nigeria’s most ambitious public health institutions and could strengthen the country’s leadership role in Africa’s campaign against malaria.
“This is a battle we can win. Nigeria can eliminate malaria if we remain committed to the goal,” Nwoko said.

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