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Oborevwori Urges Investors to Act, Declares Delta Ripe for Investment

By
Hill Nigeria
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.…Orders Immediate Rehabilitation Of Failed Sections Of Ubeji/Egbokodo/Refinery Road

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on investors particularly Deltans at home and in the diaspora to take advantage of the state’s steadily improving socio-economic climate to invest in the State.

The Governor who made the call at Ubeji, Warri South Local Government Area, while inaugurating a multi-million-naira hospitality and tourism investment, the Swiss International Rancho Valerie Hotel, said; “the time to invest in Delta State is now.”

“Warri is rising again, Delta State is progressing steadily. The shadows of yesterday have given way to the bright possibilities of today and the greater promises of tomorrow,” the Governor declared.

Saying the hotel is a bold testament to the rising economic profile of Warri, Oborevwori ordered the immediate rehabilitation of failed portion of the Ubeji/Egbokodo/Refinery Road.

He said the new hospitality facility reflects the renewed confidence investors now have in Delta State, adding that Warri is reclaiming its place as Delta’s commercial and tourism hub.

According to him, the establishment of the hotel will not only provide premium accommodation,  but also stimulate local enterprise, create jobs, enhance community peace, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of the state.

He said: “This hotel is not just another project; it is a clear statement that Delta State is open for business. It affirms that our state is safe, investor-friendly, and capable of hosting world-class hospitality and tourism ventures”.

Governor Oborevwori praised the hotel’s owner, Mr. Mode Akoma, describing the project as an inspiring story of vision, resilience, and determination.

He commended Akoma’s choice to invest in his home community rather than elsewhere, calling it a demonstration of deep commitment to Delta’s development.

“If you had invited me to commission a hotel you built outside Delta State, I would not have attended. But I am proud that you chose to develop your community. This project brings jobs, brings peace, and brings progress,” he added.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, enhanced security, and investor-friendly policies under the MORE Agenda.

While congratulating the owners and management of Swiss International Rancho Valerie, he emphasized that the success of such projects underscores the limitless investment opportunities available in Delta State.

Earlier in his welcome address, General Manager of the hotel, Mr. Todowede Opeyemi, said the facility would provide exceptional hospitality services that meet international standard.

He added that the management is committed to contributing to the state’s development by helping unlock Delta’s rich tourism potential.

“Every guest who visits us deserves more than just a stay; they deserve an unforgettable experience, one that reflects our culture, our hospitality, and our warmth as a people,” Opeyemi said.

Delta First Lady Commissions Cottage Hospital In Ughelli

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Hails Governor’s Expanding Healthcare Reforms

First Lady of Delta State, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed Tobore Oborevwori Cottage Hospital in Ughelli North Local Government Area, describing the project as a “beacon of hope, healing, and humanity” for the people.

The ceremony, held on December 2, 2025, marked a major milestone in the local government’s healthcare expansion efforts, led by Chairman Olorogun Jaro Egbo, who described the hospital as part of a broader vision to deliver accessible, affordable, and reliable healthcare to residents of Ughelli North.

In an emotionally charged speech, the First Lady expressed deep gratitude to the local government council for naming the facility after her, stating that the honour underscored the value placed on her modest contributions to the welfare of Deltans.

“It gladdens my heart to know that my modest contributions are being recognized and valued. It feels good to be home, home sweet home,” she said.

She commended the council chairman and his team for “breaking barriers and creating access to affordable, quality healthcare for our people,” adding that the project aligns perfectly with the commitment of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to human-centered development.

The First Lady praised her husband for his reforms in the state’s health sector, citing the recent reduction of dialysis fees from ₦75,000 to ₦40,000, the provision of new dialysis and CT machines across government hospitals, and the ongoing rehabilitation of 150 Primary Healthcare Centres across the 25 Local Government Areas.

“God will help the governor to achieve more. He is working, and it is showing,” she declared.

Highlighting her philanthropic activities, Deaconess Oborevwori noted that her ‘You mata Charity Foundation’ recently conducted a free medical outreach for children with special needs in Ughelli, providing medications, wheelchairs, and assistive devices.

She recalled a remarkable moment during the outreach where a woman who delivered triplets received over ₦8.1 million raised through spontaneous donations, describing the gesture as “a testimony of God’s grace.”

She assured that similar outreaches will be extended to Delta North and Delta South.

In his address, Chairman of the Local Government Council, Hon Jaro Egbo said the new facility was conceived as part of his administration’s strategic plan to strengthen the local health system.

“Healthcare is not a privilege for a few, but a right for all,” he said.

Egbo expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for providing an enabling environment for development, noting that the Renewed Hope For MORE Agenda has been the foundation upon which several projects including the cottage hospital have been executed.

He also thanked the First Lady for commissioning the project, describing her as an embodiment of compassion whose influence continues to inspire the people of Ughelli North.

Egbo urged residents to protect the facility from vandalism, stressing that sustainability depends on community ownership and cooperation.

Chairman of the occasion and head of the Ughelli North Local Government Advisory Committee, Chief Miller Uloho, extolled Governor Oborevwori for his “exceptional leadership,” recalling the governor’s role in resolving long-standing land acquisition disputes in Osubi that threatened the airport project.

He described the governor as “a naturally gifted leader” whose capacity earned him a seat on the maiden flight that opened the Osubi airport.

Uloho also applauded Jaro Egbo’s performance, urging him to sustain the developmental momentum, and appealed to the First Lady to ensure the new cottage hospital remains functional, well-funded, and properly maintained.

Executive Secretary of the Ughelli North Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Tega Ighovo, announced that the hospital is fully equipped with modern facilities, including an ambulance and diagnostic equipment, enabling it to serve as a referral centre for primary healthcare clinics across the Local Government Area.

New Tax Law Favors Citizens, Not Government,  Says Experts

By
Hill Nigeria
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Discussants at the 2025 Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) Annual Lecture have debunked widespread misconceptions that Nigeria’s new tax law is designed primarily to enrich government, insisting instead that the reform offers far greater benefits to citizens, businesses, and the wider economy.

Speaking during the panel session, accountant and tax consultant Victor Fegor Origho said the new framework was structured to create a balanced, mutually beneficial relationship between the government and the people. He explained that the law seeks to correct long-standing irregularities in the tax system where some Nigerians were overtaxed while others escaped underassessment.

According to him, public fears about indiscriminate debits and harsh penalties are misplaced, as the intent of the law is fairness, accuracy and transparency. “This reform is not designed to punish Nigerians. It is to correct the gaps and make sure everyone pays what is due—no more, no less,” he said.

Legal practitioner Barr. Ikpesu Gideon Jade, I described the legislation as a modern dispute-resolution mechanism that functions like an ombudsman for tax matters. He noted that although fines exist, organizations can avoid sanctions by keeping accurate records, complying early and managing their affairs professionally. “If you do your part, the law protects you,” he said.

Another panelist, Martins Onyem Aghaobod, Esq, stressed the urgency of public sensitization ahead of the law’s full implementation in January 2026. He urged Nigerians to study the 203-section document to better understand its objectives—chief among them the elimination of multiple taxation and the strengthening of compliance.

The experts collectively emphasized that the law will empower citizens to hold government accountable by making tax processes more transparent and enabling Nigerians to track how revenue is spent on infrastructure and essential services.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Associate Professor of Accounting at Dennis Osadebay University, Dr. Ochuko Emudainohwo, described the new tax law as a strategic economic blueprint crafted to reposition Nigeria for sustainable and inclusive development. He linked the reform to declining oil revenue, population pressures and the economic shocks of COVID-19, noting that the federal government had no choice but to rethink its fiscal model.

Dr. Emudainohwo explained that the consolidation of income and company taxes into a single tax net simplifies administration and reduces bottlenecks. He described the new framework as “pro-people,” highlighting provisions that exempt companies with annual turnover below N50 million from capital-based and company income taxes. This, he said, would relieve small businesses, promote innovation and stimulate enterprise growth.

He added that the law strengthens digital tax platforms, closes leakages and promotes transparency—key steps needed to rebuild public trust.

While the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Chairman of the Occasion, Mr. Edward Obiefuna Martyns, and the Forum’s Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ochonogor Enebeli, all underscored the need for accountability in tax administration, the core focus of the event remained the expert insights that dissected the new legislation and its implications for Nigerians.

Oborevwori, represented by Commissioner for Information Charles Aniagwu, stressed that tax reforms must translate into tangible development, while Martyns urged the media to intensify scrutiny of government revenue use. Enebeli emphasized that taxation must go hand in hand with service delivery, calling for improved roads, safer communities and transparent governance.

The 2025 DOPF Annual Lecture, themed “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society,” drew broad participation and provided deep analysis of how the legislation will shape economic behaviour, governance and public expectations as Nigeria enters a new era of tax reforms.

Addressing Falsehoods: The Truth About Consultations for Anioma State Creation

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Eze Onwenna

Opponents of Senator Ned Nwoko’s push for Anioma State creation who claim a lack of consultation are peddling falsehoods, as extensive efforts were made to engage all stakeholders. Senator Nwoko has consistently sought broad consensus, even in the face of political obstacles and deliberate avoidance by some figures.

The claim that local government chairmen were not consulted is untrue. Senator Nwoko scheduled meetings, and when they refused to turn up, he asked them to choose a convenient venue, which they still declined. He sent his Legal Aide to take the documents to them, many of them directed him to their Secretaries who signed on their behalf, Barr Alika was smart enough by ensuring that those documents were signed and stamped , though they later denied it but we have been expecting them to sue the Senator for forgery, none of them has been able to do that. He met with Delta State House of Assembly members from Delta North in his Asaba office, where they explicitly stated their refusal to sign any document in support of the state creation.

Numerous efforts were also made to engage one-on-one with the immediate past Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and Senator Peter Nwaoboshi; however, calls and messages went unanswered. Conversely, Hon. Ezechi was communicated with from the beginning and expressed assurance of his support. Hon. Ngozi Okolie attended an initial summit organised by Senator Nwoko at the Grand Hotel Asaba and expressed support, while Hon. Nwaokolo offered no committed response when reached out to.

The narrative of a “one-man show” is insincere. Despite tacit and cowardly avoidance by some, including councillors who dodged scheduled meetings, the movement has gained significant traction and national support due to sustained advocacy and a structured process. The current push for Anioma State is now an advanced, structured national process with widespread backing from key figures across the Senate and national bodies like Izu Anioma and Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, focusing on historical justice and regional equity.

The process is firmly on course, with the proposal (Senate Bill 481) having garnered support from over 90 senators, surpassing the constitutional threshold in the Red Chamber. This momentum, anchored on the principles of fairness and balanced development, is a collective mission rooted in the long-held aspirations of the Anioma people, not the personal interests or political calculations of a few individuals.

If you were Senator Ned Nwoko, what would you do?

Issele-Azagba Community Accuses Developer of Encroachment, Calls for Governor Oborevwori’s Intervention

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Issele-Azagba Land Committee has raised alarm over what it described as the unlawful encroachment and destruction of farmlands by the developers of the proposed Cubana Millennium Estate.

Addressing Journalists, the President General of Issele Azagba Development  Union, Elder Patrick Isichei made the disclosure during a press briefing today at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Asaba.

Isichei expressed displeasure over recent developments involving the Cubana Group, stating that despite a government directive on October 10, 2025, instructing both communities to stay off the land until the boundary process is concluded, the developers allegedly entered the heart of Issele-Azagba farmlands and destroyed properties

According to Isichei, the location of the estate is not part of the disputed area between both communities. The proposed site is about 1.3 kilometers away from where the boundary committee has commenced fixing of the boundary already.”

He further claimed that representatives of the Cubana Group reportedly boasted of receiving backing from the state and local governments to take possession of the land, an allegation the committee described as “disturbing and unacceptable.”

“We vehemently reject this condemnable action and will not sit idle while our farmland is forcefully taken by anyone without adequate discussion and compensation to us, the rightful owners,” he said.

The President General called on Governor Oborevwori to urgently intervene to prevent the situation from escalating, insisting that while they welcome development projects, such initiatives must follow due process and respect the rights of host communities.

Also speaking, the spokesperson of the group Hon. Augustine Ijeh said the land in question was their ancestral land, legacy and heritage and that they cannot watch it been stolen from them.

While questioning the silence of the state government, he said that the Issele-Azagba community were bonafide Deltans who deserves to be protected as they have contributed politically. Hence they shouldn’t be victimised at the detriment of a non Deltan, Obi Cubana.

While calling for justice, Ijeh said they have documented evidence of the land in question and appealed that the government gives a directive to put on hold every activity going on at the construction site until the needful is done.

Respect Constitution, Agazuma Cautions Long-Serving Executives

By
Hill Nigeria
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Chairman of  Non-indigene Association in Delta State, Sir Bernard Agazuma has frowned against power tussle by some executive members of the Association

Agazuma made this known while speaking with journalists in Asaba.

He said Festus Ukeje also known as June 12, who has since 2015 been Vice Chairman, alongside Charles Iwuchukwu who has been Secretary since 2015 and a northerner by the name Gambo has indicated interest to take over leadership of the Association.

He frowned at the intention of both members who have been in position for long and still desperate for power adding that it was unacceptable, hence the need for them to remain patience before indicating interest for elective position.

The Chairman urged them to step aside after their tenure and give room for other members to take over leadership.

He said it was out of place for members who have occupied leadership role for long to seek power without following the constitution, adding that the valid document of registration of the Association were in his custody.

Agazuma said he was impressed that members were ready to kick against any one who goes against the constitution of the Association.

The Chairman noted that the law states four years of leadership and nothing more, adding that his tenure in office will elapse in July 2027 when he will step down for others to take over.

He commended the state governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for recognising non indigenes in his government.

Delta State Governor, Martyns, Enebeli Push for Accountability as Nigeria’s New Tax Law Takes Centre Stage at DOPF Annual Lecture

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; Chairman of the 2025 Annual Lecture of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), Mr. Edward Obiefuna Martyns; and the Forum’s Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ochonogor Enebeli, have declared that Nigeria’s new tax law must translate into transparency, accountability and measurable development if it is to win public confidence.

Speaking in Asaba at the Annual Lecture, the trio stressed that public acceptance of the reform will depend on how responsibly government manages tax revenues and how visibly those revenues improve infrastructure, services and economic stability nationwide.

Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said Nigeria cannot ignore the new tax law as the country urgently needs a stronger revenue base to drive human and capital development. He warned that tax collection without accountability would undermine public trust.

“It is not about collecting money; give the people value for their money,” he said, urging Nigerians to be fully informed about the reform. “Do not say it does not concern you—this policy affects everyone.”

Martyns, who chaired the event, said the new tax framework will reshape how Nigerians do business and how government performance is assessed. He charged the Forum and journalists across the country to intensify scrutiny of government spending and ensure transparency in the utilisation of tax revenue.

“The Forum has a role to play in shaping society. As journalists, ensure proper reportage of government activities and insist that revenue is utilised to improve infrastructure, health, education and the wider business environment,” he said.

In his address, the Forum’s Chairman, Mr. Enebeli, stressed that taxation and public service delivery must go hand in hand if the new tax law is to achieve meaningful results. He said citizens expect measurable improvements in their daily lives once the new regime begins.

“It is not just about taxation; Nigerians expect better roads, safer communities and a business-friendly environment,” he said. “As Nigeria enters this new era of tax reforms, it becomes even more important for government to demonstrate value for revenue collected.”

Enebeli commended the Delta State Government for progress on the Ughelli–Kwale–Asaba Road but called for urgent intervention on several critical routes, including the Agbor–Asaba–Onitsha Road and the Effurun–Sapele–Benin corridor. He further drew attention to the Agbor–Umutu–Obiaruku–Abraka–Eku–Sapele Road, noting that its long abandonment has caused massive unemployment, hardship and the closure of numerous businesses along the corridor, worsening economic conditions for residents and traders who rely on the route.

He also emphasised the role of security in economic growth, applauding the launch of the Delta State Security Trust Fund and urging prompt assent and implementation of the newly passed State Community Security Bill. He encouraged corporate bodies, business owners and citizens to support government efforts to strengthen safety and investor confidence.

The Annual Lecture, themed “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society,” drew wide participation and provided deep insights into how the new legislation will reshape governance, business operations and public expectations as Nigeria transitions into a new tax era.

Ibori Commends Oborevwori’s Governance

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Prays for Greater Achievements, advancement of Delta beyond 2027

Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori on Thursday, praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his “good governance strides” when both leaders met at the country home of late businessman, Olorogun Oskar Ibru in Agbarha‑Otor, Ughelli North Local Government Area.

Chief Ibori, visibly elated, rose in excitement as Governor Oborevwori entered the venue, signaling the unity of political leaders from Delta Central Senatorial District.

Recent statements by political leaders and stakeholders, including those from former Senate Deputy President, Senator Ovie Omo‑Agege, have affirmed Oborevwori’s leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

In a trending video, Ibori offered “well‑calculated prayers” for Oborevwori, forecasting electoral victories and potential elevation to the Senate after his tenure ends on May 29, 2031. He commended Oborevwori’s visionary leadership, noting huge infrastructure development, peace, unity, and progress across the state.

Reacting, Director‑General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Esq., described Ibori as a father‑figure in Delta politics.

He emphasized Ibori’s recognition of Oborevwori’s performance, resilience, and humility, urging all leaders to support the governor for continued success under the MORE Agenda.

The Bureau Chief added, “Chief James Ibori remains a father‑figure in Delta’s political landscape. It’s very important for all Delta Central Senatorial District political leaders to be on the same page as we approach another electioneering season.

“Urhobo nation unity is very important in the political equation of Delta State. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is providing the needed leadership for accelerated development, peace, unity and progress across board; Delta Central, Delta North and Delta South. His pragmatic leadership is yielding tremendous results in this dispensation.

“I am pretty sure that Chief Ibori would sustain this level of cordiality and unity of purpose for the benefit of all Deltans, and for the advancement of Delta State. The days of working at cross purposes appears to be over. Delta Central political leaders are ready for collective greater achievements, going forward.

“Chief Ibori endorsement of Oborevwori for a second term completes the circle of 2027 victory for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta State,” he assured.

Oghenesivbe affirmed readiness for the 2027 elections, pledging victory across all 25 Local Government Areas for the All Progressives Congress.

Chief Ibori candid prayers and endorsement underscores growing political alignment behind Oborevwori as he advances his agenda for Delta State’s rapid development.

#fredlatimore

Georgina Okoh’s Service of Songs: Cleric Calls for Hope Amidst Grief

By
Hill Nigeria
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Pastor Nicolas Chukuma Oboli of Pilgrim Baptist Church in Issele-Mkpitime has called for hope in the midst of grief.

The Cleric gave the call during the service of songs of Late Mrs Georgina Okoh at her residence in Idumu-ozoma Quarters in Issele-Mkpitime, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Addressing a congregation gathered to mourn the passing of a woman he described as a “kind, jovial, and simple woman,” Pastor Oboli emphasized that death, regardless of age, must be accepted as an inevitable “reality” for everyone.

“Mortality is Clear that we must know as reality that everyone must come to that stage,” the Pastor stated.

He referenced the biblical account of Jesus preparing his disciples for his departure, explaining that Jesus’s promise to them, “where I’m going to you cannot come now but you will definitely come when the right time came”, was a model for accepting the transition of life.

Pastor Oboli directly challenged the despair often seen at funerals, “When something happens you see people weeping as though there is no hope”.

He countered this by quoting Ecclesiastes chapter 9 and verse 4, “the living dog has hope than the dead lion”.

He affirmed that the role of the ministry is to ensure the bereaved understand they have hope beyond earthly life.

In a subsequent interview, Pastor Oboli shared his personal connection and fond memories of Mama, who was both an in-law (as one of his brothers married one of her grandchildren) and a devoted member of the church he pastors.

While Pastor Oboli noted that he had known her well since childhood.

“She was a kind woman,” he recalled. “They called her Mama Africa, she’s a simple, kind and jovial woman, adding that the beloved matriarch expressed immense love, particularly towards children. “When you meet him, she loves so much. She plays with children,” he said, reminiscing about visiting her home as a child to speak with her.

Pastor Oboli concluded his tribute with a prayer for the deceased, “Mama is a good woman to the best of my knowledge and I believe God will show her mercy and accept her”.

Senate Calls For Comprehensive Review Of National Firearm Legislation

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Commends Senator Prince Ned Nwoko For Sponsoring Motion

By Authentic Ojuwa

The Senate has issued a formal call to the Federal Government to initiate a thorough review of Nigeria’s existing firearm laws, with the aim of considering regulated firearm ownership for responsible and qualified citizens. This legislative move reflects the Senate’s ongoing commitment to addressing prevailing security challenges and exploring lawful mechanisms that may strengthen community safety across the nation.

During plenary, lawmakers underscored the need to evaluate the adequacy of current policies governing firearm possession, noting that evolving security realities have made it necessary to reassess frameworks that determine access, regulation, and oversight. The proposed review is expected to examine global best practices, ensure strict eligibility criteria, and uphold safeguards designed to prevent misuse.

The Senate further recognized and commended the distinguished contributions of Senator Prince Ned Nwoko, who sponsored and presented the motion before the chamber. His initiative has catalyzed renewed national dialogue on the effectiveness of existing firearm regulations and the potential role of responsible citizens within a controlled and legally compliant system.

The Senate reaffirmed that any future policy adjustments must prioritize public safety, accountability, and robust regulatory enforcement.

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