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Ned Nwoko Applauds Deltans As State Marks 33 Years of Creation

The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Prince Ned Nwoko has congratulated Deltans as the State celebrates her 33rd anniversary.

The Senator said it’s pleasing to showcase the goodness of GOD on the State at the threshold of 33 years.

Nwoko in a statement at Abuja, eulogized the doggedness of the people of Delta in the past three decades and affirmed that the State had made incremental progress at all fronts.Delta, he acknowledged, duly deserved celebration.

He therefore urged the people to continue to keep faith with the PDP led government that is doing so much to deliver dividends of democracy to the people. Senator Nwoko also paid glowing tribute to the founding fathers of the state, including successive governments.

“I wholeheartedly celebrate the resilience of Deltans these past 33 years. Indeed,we have made progress as a State while remaining focused on achieving peace and unity as well as developmental strides.

“I want to use this medium to also commend the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his meticulous drive to deliver good governance to the people.

“On my part as Senator representing Delta North,I will continue to promote the best of interests of Deltans and Nigerians,in my legislative duties.

“Let us work together to record more accomplishments as a people.Once again, I congratulate all Deltans at home and in the Diaspora, even as I task everyone to help in building our state and the nation for sustainable development “, Nwoko stated.

Ubu Bridge Ready December – Oborevwori

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, said the Ubu bridge along sector C1 of the ongoing Ughelli-Asaba Road dualisation project at Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area would be ready in December, 2024.

Governor Oborevwori disclosed this during inspection of the project including the completed 9.1km Isheagu-Ewulu Road where he frowned at the poor delivery of the side drains.

The Governor who undertook the inspection on a day the state was celebrating 33rd anniversary of it’s creation, said the inspection was part of activities to mark the anniversary.

He said: “We thank God for the anniversary of Delta state today. After our thanksgiving, we felt it was necessary for us to come and inspect some of the works we are doing.

“We are just coming from Isheagu/Ewulu Road that’s a 9.1km road. They have done the binding and the wearing course, we are satisfied with the asphalt work.

“But we are having a little issue with the drains which we have asked them make some corrections before we can commission the project. Without that I will not commissioning the project.

“We are here now to inspect this Sector C1. This is one of the most critical part of the dualisation of Ughelli/Asaba road. This is not the first time I am coming here. I have been here three times and you can see now that they are having challenges with the rains.

“You heard the supervisor who explained that the rains are disturbing them. But the good thing is that they have assured us that by December, they will be able to finish the bridge.

“Once they are able to do that, the other work will no longer be too difficult. They don’t have any reason not to work because they are on ISPO, so they don’t lack money”.

On why he embarked on Road inspection on a day Deltans are celebrating anniversary of the state creation, he said; “we first gave thanks to God and thereafter decided to go to work because today is a working day. We cannot just do thanksgiving and go home to celebrate.

“Some people are doing only celebration today but I and my team decided to use today also to inspect important infrastructure as part of activities to mark the state creation anniversary.”

Oborevwori Congratulates 14th Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Azinge

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, (SAN) OON, on his crowning as the 14th Asagba of Asaba.

Governor Oborevwori described Prof Azinge, who was the Director-General (DG) of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) as a distinguished academic and quintessential legal luminary.

The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, said that Azinge’s emergence was well-deserved, considering the fact that he was replacing an academic giant in the field of Medicine, Obi Prof. Chike Edozien.

He urged Azinge to bring his wealth of experience to bear on his new role, as the chief custodian of the cultural heritage of the Asaba people.

He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate Professor Epiphany Azinge, (SAN), OON, on his emergence as the 14th Asagba of Asaba Kingdom.

“Given the antecedents of Obi Prof. Azinge as a brilliant lawyer and academic of great repute, I have no doubt that he will bring his wealth of experience to bear in improving on the Asaba Kingdom’s cultural heritage.

“As a former Director-General and Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), you dedicated yourself to hard work, professionalism, patriotism and unparalleled commitment to the promotion of excellence in the legal profession.

“It is, therefore, not a surprise that you have been found worthy by the good people of Asaba to lead them as their traditional ruler.”

While wishing Obi Prof. Azinge a successful tenure, Oborevwori prayed to God Almighty to continue blessing the Asagba with divine health, wisdom and strength for greater achievements.

Delta at 33: We Have Good Stories To Tell – DG DSOCB

…Commends NAWOJ For Sustaining Ethical Standards, Balance Reporting

Director General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr (Barr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has said that citizens and residents of the state have cause to celebrate, after thirty three years of steady progress, and counting.

He made the assertion on Monday when the leadership of the state chapter of the National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, paid him a courtesy visit at the Bureau’s headquarters in Asaba.

Dr Oghenesivbe disclosed that when Delta State was created 33 years ago, there was nothing on ground in terms of infrastructure, but that over the years the state made steady progress in all sectors, especially in huge infrastructure and socioeconomic development, adding that Delta has grown to become a major commercial and economic hub, a first choice destination for holiday makers.

He urged members of NAWOJ to take stock and tell the good and positive stories about the milestone achievements of the state, from administrations of Chief Felix Ibru, Chief James Ibori, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan to Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, and to the present Administration, adding that governor Oborevwori is working wonders that would Advance Delta beyond 2027, through the ongoing implementation of his MORE agenda across the state.

He stated that women empowerment, inclusion in mainstream politics and governance in the state had also recorded meaningful progress, pointing out that out of the 25 Vice Chairmen of local government councils, 22 are women, with reasonable number of female councillors, pointing to show that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, being the party in power since 1999, had identified with women and strategically positioning some of them for leadership roles.

The Director General of the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, noted that NAWOJ should reasonably focus on these positive developments and paradigm shifts by appreciating the government of governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the PDP for their deliberate efforts in empowering women, and for according them their right of place in politics, governance and in public service.

He assured that the Bureau is willing and ready to partner with NAWOJ in the area of sensitization campaigns against domestic violence, illicit drugs hawking by teenagers, especially the girl child via the planned awareness exercise recently approved by governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

“We are in celebration mood, because Delta State will be 33 on Tuesday, and there is so much to thank God for.

“Looking back, Delta has recorded substantial progress in terms of infrastructure development, education, sports, land and air transportation, socioeconomic advancement, and so on, and so forth.

“As a state, we have good and positive stories to tell, and am urging NAWOJ to help tell these stories through traditional and social media platforms. Delta is very peaceful compared to some other states. We are making steady progress.

“The MORE Agenda of governor Sheriff Oborevwori is yielding fantastic results for the state and people. Mega road infrastructure projects are ongoing at DSC Roundabout, PTI junction, Effurun Roundabout and Enerhen junction up to Marine Gate, and the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is handling the construction projects according to designs and specifications. Governor Oborevwori is practically turning Delta into a construction site.

“I encourage NAWOJ to take a tour of ongoing projects and tell the story. You are valuable partners with government as members of the fourth estate of the realm. You have done well by sustaining ethical standards and balance reporting.

“Our doors are open at the State Orientation and Communications Bureau. You are always welcome to partner with us, and to cross fertilize ideas that would add value to governance in the state, and to society in general,” Oghenesivbe assured.

Speaking earlier, State chairperson of NAWOJ, Sophia Onobunjo, on behalf of the association congratulated Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe over his recent appointment as the Director General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, at the instance of governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

She said NAWOJ is an affiliate of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, comprising over 250 members across the 25 LGAs in the state, adding that the association is saddled with the responsibility of regular advocacy for good governance, women inclusiveness/affirmative action and empowerment, girl child rights, as well as capacity building for women journalists.

“We are very much aware of your antecedents as a technocrat, politician, renowned communication Strategist and media manager.

“Your pedigree speaks volume, and we strongly believe that you will bring your wealth of experience, vast knowledge, professional competence and multifaceted skills in strategic communications to bear in this onorous assignment.

“Our visit is to congratulate you as a valuable partner and friend of NUJ and NAWOJ, and to also solicit for the Bureau’s support to carryout our planned Health Empowerment and Welfare Programme for our members in the third week of September, this year.

“NAWOJ is poised to join in making the MORE agenda of His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, a reality for all beyond 2027,” she said.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori Has Not Borrowed A Dime- Delta Information Commissioner

The Delta State Government notes with serious concern some reports in some online media platforms alleging that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori borrowed the sum of N40 billion soon after assuming office.
This was disclosed in a Press statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza,
The reports are not only misleading, but also capable of creating misunderstanding and confusion in the State. For the avoidance of doubt, I wish to state categorically that the Delta State Government DID NOT Borrow N40 billion. And the Sheriff Oborevwori administration has not borrowed any dime till now. The records are there for anybody who cares for the truth to verify.
What the Oborevwori administration did was to graciously guarantee a N40b loan facility for ALGON, to enable it offset the unpaid pension liabilities of retired Local Government personnel. Repayable over a five-year period, the loan is to be repaid through direct debits to the Local Government Councils.
For the umpteen time, let me also state without equivocation that the so-called N465 billion debt amount is actually the existing debt profile accumulated by previous administrations in the State. Governor Oborevwori, as many would testify, is a prudent manager of resources, and has done the right thing by keeping to the terms of repayment as specified in the loan agreements. The Governor deserves commendation, not condemnation, for being a man of honour and integrity.
Debt servicing/repayment improves the credibility of any administration in the global financial community as a serious minded and progressive administration, which will enjoy the respect and support of financial institutions. It is only a well run economy that can embark on debt servicing and still maintain its developmental vision and focus for the welfare and well being of its citizens, as the Oborevwori administration has continued to do.
Meanwhile, I appeal to the media, as strategic partners of development, to always cross check their facts, as the ethics of the profession demands, before rushing to publish. I wish to reiterate that Governor Oborevwori maintains an open door policy, and is committed to transparency and accountability in the administration of the State.

Medical Outreach Postponed- Nwoko

The earlier scheduled Ned Nwoko Medical Outreach slated for August 27, 2024 at the Idumuje-Ugboko Medical Center, has been postponed.

This was made known in a press statement made available to The Hill Nigeria by the Senator representing Delta North in the National Assembly, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko.

It stated that the new date for the outreach will be on Tuesday, September 3,  2024, with the event commencing at 9:00 a.m.

Additionally, the medical outreach at the Primary Health Care Center in Umuagwu, Asaba, scheduled for Wednesday, August 28th, will also take place on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

While apologizing for any inconvenience the change of date may cause, he called for their continued support and participation in the important health initiatives.

 

Asiuwhu Goes Tough On Defaulters Of Illegal Waste Disposal

The Chairman, Delta State Special Task Force on Environment, Hon Godspower Asiuwhu, has said defaulters of illegal waste disposal will not be spared by the law.
Asiuhwu disclosed this while speaking with pressmen during the sixth edition of the Journalists Hangout, organized by the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, in Asaba.
He said in line with the agenda of the state governor on zero tolerance on defaulters, no offender of the law would be spared.
“The Governor has given us a clear directive to enforce the law without fear or favor”, he said.
He also revealed that over 30 offenders have been arrested by the night time task force officers, who have been assigned to checkmate the activities of those who engage in illegal dumping of refuse at odd hours.
He urged Journalists to help in reporting activities of any violator of the warnings.
The Chairman said his office will go after owners of hotels and eateries who dump their waste into drainages, causing offensive odors in the neighborhoods.
Earlier the Union Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe while commending the Task Force Chairman for his visit, said it would help foster better communication and understanding between government officials and the media.
Oyowe said the interaction would also help the media hold the government accountable.

Delta Activist Probes Oborevwori Over N465 Billion Debt

A Delta-born activist cum National Coordinator, Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (ÇEPEJ), Comrade Chief Sheriff Mulade has urged the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to account for the widely acclaimed N465 billion debt, inherited from his political godfather, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

Comrade Mulade, who is the Patron of Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC), also asked him to show proofs of projects that these monies were used for as according to him they were monies approved by Oborevwori when he was Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA).

The requests of Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Sorimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri south west local government area of the State, followed reports that Oborevwori inherited N465 billion and has so far paid N130 billion.

The development and peace advocate spoke shortly after he was decorated as Patron of the Chapel in Warri, recently.

“Recently, although, we were not shocked but we were surprised that the Delta State government told us that they have paid N130 billion out of the N465 billion inherited by the government.

“These monies were monies borrowed by the immediate past government and sometimes we find it very funny for the Delta State Governor, elder Sheriff Oborevwori, to tell us that he inherited N465 billion.

“This N465 billion plus, were approved by him under his watch as the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly. Before these monies were approved, they were tied to projects, where are these projects? Why is he paying N130 billion now?

“So, he need to tell us the projects these monies were used for because he was part of the government that borrowed these monies.

“Today, he happens to be the executive governor of Delta State, he owe us that responsibility to explain. We are using this opportunity to call on him to tell us what the N465 billion were borrowed and used for.

The United Nations (UN) Global Peace Ambassador, tasked the Delta State House of Assembly, under the leadership of his Ijaw tribal man, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor to swing into proper and thorough investigation and inform Deltans what the N465 billion was used for.

“I want to also say that the Delta State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, should investigate the usage of those monies. A committee should be set up in the house to investigate the usage of these monies and tell Deltans what they were used for.

“We will not keep quiet until we know how these monies were used because you will recall that we borrowed towards the end of the last administration and when this government came in, there was no funds in any of the Delta State accounts.

“So, the first thing this government did was to borrow N40 billion. Delta cannot be one of the richest states in Nigeria, and be borrowing money, it is not acceptable”, he declared

“He noted that people of his status are no longer looking out for political appointments even though it is their rights.

Hear him: “Some of us are not looking for political appointments, so we will call the government to questioning. It is our rights to get political appointment but we will not sell our consciousnece for political appointments. We will ensure that these monies are accounted for.

“We are only talking about the state funds, we are not talking about the 13 percent oil Derivation”, stressing that there are evidential documents to prove his point.

“For the eight years, we have the Certified True Copies from the Accountant General’s office of the Federation, where over N1 2 trillion of the 13 percent oil Derivation were paid to Delta State.

“And base on the laws of Delta State, we (DESOPADEC) are entitled to N600 billion, we are still looking for the money. People need to know about the money.

“So, please, if the monies are in government house, they should be released to DESOPADEC so that DESOPADEC can in turn use them for us.

“DESOPADEC should not be starved of funds. We know DESOPADEC was created for a purpose, that purpose must be given the opportunity so that the people from these area, will enjoy it.

“Some of us, we are in EFCC. We have already called on the EFCC to help us if the State House of Assembly fails. The first one we took to EFCC, was the 13 percent oil Derivation.

“But for this N465 billion, we are already in EFCC to say, please, be on standby. If all the avenues within the State fails, then, we will tell you to help us to investigate the money.

“We are not scared to visit the EFCC or ICPC within the confine of the law to ensure that these monies are used for Deltans. They are not met for individual pockets so that we can enjoy the dividends of democracy and of our oil resources “, ÇEPEJ National Coordinator, Mulade, said.

Reimaging Nigeria’s Social Safety Net: Nwoko Writes President Tinubu

An Open Letter to His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Your Excellency,

REIMAGINING NIGERIA’S SOCIAL SAFETY NET: A CALL TO REPLACE THE MINISTRY OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS WITH A NATIONAL SOCIAL SECURITY AGENCY UNDER THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Nigeria stands at a pivotal crossroads. The pervasive issues of poverty and the societal decay it perpetuates have reached a level of urgency that can no longer be ignored. The cries of hunger, now echoing in the streets, represent far more than just a lack of food. They are the voices of millions of Nigerians who have been stripped of their dignity, left to survive in a system that has failed them repeatedly. These are not merely protests; they are a collective outcry against the indignity of living without the certainty of basic needs, without hope for a better future.
Your Excellency, in the face of these challenges, it is imperative that we reassess our approach to social welfare in Nigeria. The current framework, embodied by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, has not only fallen short of addressing these issues but has also perpetuated a cycle of dependency and poverty. This ministry, while well-intentioned, has proven to be a temporary bandage on a deep and festering wound. This approach does not respect the inherent dignity of our people. It treats them as dependents rather than as citizens with rights. Social security should be recognized not as an act of benevolence, but as a fundamental right. It is time to rethink our strategy and implement a transformative change that will pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for all Nigerians.

I respectfully urge you to consider establishing a National Social Security Agency, directly under the Office of the President, to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. This agency would target and address the needs of the vulnerable population through a more efficient and sustainable system, one that truly empowers rather than pities, one that upholds the dignity and respect every Nigerian deserves. A system that ensures citizens feel truly secure, confident that no matter the circumstances, their basic needs for food and shelter will be met, a system that will provide the government with the necessary space to focus on other critical aspects of governance, free from unprovoked backlash due to perceived neglect or lack of support.
Who are the vulnerable to be targeted?
When we speak of the vulnerable, we must recognize them for who they truly are: our elderly who have served this country, now left without the security of a pension; our disabled who are daily fighting for a life of dignity in a society that overlooks their needs; our widows and orphans, left without a breadwinner and struggling to survive; the unemployed who seek work but find only closed doors; and those who have suffered unimaginable loss—whether through accidents, violence, or abandonment—and are now forgotten by the system that should protect them. These are the faces of Nigeria’s vulnerable population, and it is our moral obligation to ensure that they are not just seen but also supported with the dignity and respect they deserve.

The Flawed System: Why Our Current Approach to Poverty Alleviation Isn’t Working
The fight against poverty has been a central focus of development planning in Nigeria since independence. Various governments have introduced numerous poverty alleviation programs over the years. Yet, the grim reality is that these interventions have largely failed to deliver meaningful and lasting results. The statistics paint a sobering picture:
•Poverty Rate: Approximately 40% of Nigerians live below the poverty line, struggling to meet their basic needs.
•Unemployment: The unemployment rate stands at around 33%, with many Nigerians, especially youth, unable to secure stable employment.
•Disability: Over 25 million Nigerians are living with disabilities, often without adequate support or services to lead dignified lives.
•Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Over 3 million Nigerians have been displaced due to conflicts and natural disasters, facing severe hardships and limited access to essential services.
The existing model, which relies heavily on charitable handouts and temporary relief measures, is not only inadequate but also fundamentally flawed. This approach is not only patronizing but also demeaning, perpetuating a cycle of dependency. Substantial portions of allocated funds are often misappropriated or wasted, and the aid that does reach those in need is insufficient and quickly depleted on immediate necessities, rather than fostering long-term empowerment or self-sufficiency.
From Charity to Rights-Based Social Support
Your Excellency, continuing to administer social support through a charity-oriented framework is both dishonorable and counterproductive. It turns those in need into dependents rather than empowering them to rise above their circumstances. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, by its very name, suggests that social support is a benevolent gift rather than a fundamental right. This mindset is outdated and should be replaced with one that recognizes social security as a rightful entitlement for every Nigerian citizen.
The National Social Security Agency: A Comprehensive Solution for Nigeria’s Social Welfare
To rectify this, I propose the creation of a National Social Security Agency, a centralized body tied directly to the Office of the President, tasked with managing a National Social Security Database. This database will ensure comprehensive and accurate records of all Nigerians, enabling the government to effectively identify and address needs related to housing, employment, healthcare, and more. A critical aspect of this reform includes the provision of low-cost housing. As individuals become self-sufficient through employment and support, they can transition to more permanent housing, thus making room for others in need.
We must acknowledge the direct impact that meeting basic needs has on reducing crime and violence. It’s a well-understood reality that crime and violence in Nigeria could be reduced by at least 30% if the basic needs of the poor and needy are adequately met. While this doesn’t excuse criminal behavior, we must face the fact that many crimes in our nation stem from the desperation to survive, unlike in more affluent societies where crimes are less often rooted in economic necessity.
The protests and agitations that currently plague the nation are, at their core, expressions of deep-seated hunger and need. When citizens know that their next meal is guaranteed, that they have a roof over their heads, and that they will not be abandoned in times of need, they engage more constructively in society rather than being forced to fight for survival.
Moreover, this shift will allow the government to focus on other critical areas of national development and significantly reduce unwarranted criticism stemming from concerns about neglect or inadequate support.
The Role of Data and the NIN
The dependability of the data is crucial because accurate, up-to-date information is essential for identifying and effectively assisting those who are genuinely in need. The National Identification Number (NIN) will play a vital role in this process by serving as a unique identifier for every citizen. It will help ensure that benefits are correctly assigned to eligible individuals, track the employment and economic status of citizens over time, and reduce instances of duplicate or fraudulent claims, as each person’s records would be tied to their unique NIN. The success of the National Social Security Agency will hinge on the accuracy and reliability of the data it collects, as demonstrated by the success stories of other countries with similar systems.
A Sustainable Model for Social Security Funding
1. Compulsory 5% First-Line Charge Deductions: To ensure consistent and reliable funding, a compulsory 5% first-line charge from the federal, state and local governments’ monthly allocation should be instituted, deducted directly at source from the Federation account before any allocations are made to the three tiers of government. This approach eliminates the cumbersome process of remitting funds after distribution. A law will stipulate and enforce this deduction, ensuring that all tiers of government are aligned in their commitment to sustaining the social security system.
2. Contributions from Taxes and Private Sector: Private individuals and businesses will also contribute to the social security fund. A 5% contribution from employed individuals and businesses will not only help sustain the fund but also foster a sense of shared responsibility for the welfare of the nation. This contribution could be in the form of a tax, which would be a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that every Nigerian is assured of basic sustenance.
When previously unemployed individuals gain employment, they would begin contributing to the Social Security Fund through a mandated percentage of their income, similar to other employed individuals. This applies to everyone earning an income, whether in the private or public sector, including those engaged in petty trading. This principle underscores the importance of contribution: if an individual did not contribute while employed, they would not be entitled to receive support if they later become unemployed.
To drive this process and ensure efficient resource allocation, the agency will establish an office in each of the 774 Local Government Areas. Local governments will work closely with the Social Security field offices, as they are best equipped to manage and interpret community-level data. With the help of councilors, local government chairmen can identify individuals who are disabled, unemployed, or otherwise disadvantaged, making it easier to detect fraudulent claims.
The collective contribution approach is neither foreign to us nor unattainable. From 1960 to 1995, Nigeria committed over $61 billion to the liberation of South Africa, demonstrating our nation’s capacity for sacrifice and solidarity. In 1976, the South African Relief Fund (SAFR) was established to alleviate the suffering of those oppressed under apartheid. Nigerian civil servants and public officers willingly contributed 2% of their monthly salaries to support this cause.
Your Excellency, if Nigeria could extend such profound commitment to liberate black South Africans, surely we can marshal the same resolve to uplift over 80 million Nigerians from the shackles of poverty and restore their dignity. This is not just a call to duty; it is a call to our shared humanity. And it is one that must be led by you, Mr. President. Let this be President Tinubu’s Economic Revival for the Masses—a legacy project that will set a new standard for governance in Nigeria and inspire subsequent administrations to continue this vital work.
The Bottom Line
Your Excellency, establishing a National Social Security Agency is not merely an administrative change but a crucial step towards better governance and improved living standards in Nigeria. This reform will move us beyond ineffective and degrading empowerment programs to a system that truly supports and uplifts every Nigerian citizen. Social security should be recognized as a right, and it is time we implement a framework that reflects this fundamental principle—one where citizens receive the support they need without having to rely on connections within the presidency, national or state assemblies, governors, commissioners, or local government chairmen.
In conclusion, the creation of the National Social Security Agency, directly under the Office of the President, in place of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, would not only guarantee the rights and dignity of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens but also align our nation with global standards in the realistic and far-reaching implementation of fundamental principles of livelihood, exemplified by equity, enterprise, and engagement.
Your Excellency, in this period of socio-economic difficulties, the National Social Security Agency has the potential to address the needs of the people and profoundly manifest your administration’s commitment to good governance. I, therefore, urge you to take action for the common good of empowering the citizens and charting a bold new course in patriotic service to the nation.
With due diligence and utmost respect,

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko
Senator, Delta North Senatorial District
Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales

 

Okowa, Amori Commends Gov Oborevwori Over Oghenesivbe’s Appointment As DG DSOCB

Immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, has congratulated the newly appointed Director General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr (Barr) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe.

Dr Okowa in a goodwill message to his former Executive Assistant on Communications, Barrister Oghenesivbe, said the appointment came at the right time, and well deserved.

The Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, commended governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for making an excellent choice, and for adding Communications to the assigned responsibilities of the Bureau, saying that the new DG’s wealth of experience, vast knowledge, professional competence and multifaceted skills in strategic Communications cannot be over emphasized.

The immediate past governor, popularly referred to as “The Road Master” due to his landmark achievements in roads infrastructure development across the state, urged Barrister Latimore Oghenesivbe to justify his appointment by discharging his duties without blemish.

In the same vein, a former senator representing the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and prominent leader of Urhobo Nation, Chief Ighoyota Amori, thanked governor Oborevwori for the appointment.

He noted that Barrister Oghenesivbe has proven to be a courageous, efficient and dedicated public servant, as can be seen from his professional expertise in media management and result oriented communication strategies deployed in the course of his duties in al facets of the state development since he came on board in 2017.

Senator Amori, who is currently attending and supervising national conventions of the Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, in the United Kingdom and Florida, in the United States of America, sent his goodwill message, saying that Oghenesivbe’s new responsibility is essentially critical and strategic in the ongoing implementation of the governor’s MORE Agenda,.

The former Chairman of Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency, emphasized the need for creativity, new innovations and high productivity to enable the Bureau set new enviable standards, urging the new DG to roll up his sleeves for the huge task ahead.

Chief Amori commended governor Oborevwori for his visionary leadership, and for deeming it necessary to recognize Oghenesivbe’s inestimable loyalty, work tenacity and valuable contributions to the development of the state, through impactful communication strategies and effective media Management.

“Congratulations (Dr Barr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe) on your elevation to the position of DG of the Bureau of state orientation & communication by our indefatigable governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O Oborevwori, JP.

“This is an elevation well deserved, because of your hard work and positive contributions to the development of Delta State.

“You have in the course of your duty promoted and defended the state.

“May God bless you in this your new position in Jesus Name, Amen,” Chief Amori prayed.

The news of Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe’s appointment as Director General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, has been rocking the airwaves and social media platforms in the state and beyond since Thursday.

The first goodwill message came from the Delta State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, wherein the State Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyovwe.

The Union described Dr Oghenesivbe as a special friend and worthy ally, expressing confidence in the ability of the new DG to deliver on his assigned responsibilities, while appreciating governor Oborevwori for doing the needful at the right time.

Oghenesivbe, while reacting to his new appointment, thanked governor Oborevwori for finding him worthy of the new roles, and pledged his unalloyed loyalty and dedication to duty.

Dr Oghenesivbe served the immediate past governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, as Executive Assistant on Communications from  April,3,  2017 to May 29, 2023.

He was reappointed as Executive Assistant on Orientation and Communications/Head of Bureau by governor Oborevwori from November 6, 2023 to August 18, 2024.

Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe is a renowned Communication Strategist and Media Manager; a member of the International Communication Association, ICA, Full member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Member, Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, ACSPN, a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, NBA, Member, Rotary Club of Akowonjo, District 9110 where he served as two time Club Secretary and Past Vice President, among others

He is happily married to Esther Latimore Oghenesivbe, and they are blessed with wonderful children.

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