Home Blog Page 2

Ochei’s Debate Challenge Still Okowa’s Show

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Dr. Norbert Chiazor

Predictably, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei has developed a curious campaign pattern that amplifies growing public doubts about his strategic direction in the 2027 Delta North senatorial race.

A persistent unhealthy focus on Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Delta North APC senatorial candidate. Every time Ochei takes the microphone, Okowa becomes his sing-song. Everywhere- from town to television, his sound bites remain monotonous.

Recently, Ochei, NDC senatorial candidate, went to Kwale on a campaign tour. Yet, his major subject in Ndokwa was not OK but Okowa!

Speaking in innuendos, Ochei challenged Okowa to come forward for a public debate, on their respective records and capacity to address the development challenges of Delta North.

Ochei’s audience- members and leaders of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), may well have been surprised by his gauntlet to the former governor.

Addressing the people of Nsukwa clan few days ago, Ochei again in a fit of fury, railed incessantly against Okowa for what he described as “abandonment” of the area when he served as governor.

This seems Ochei’s unkindest cut.

One of the most outstanding infrastructural interventions of Okowa as governor, specially benefits Nsukwa clan: the Nsukwa/Ejeme Aniogor/Alidinma road. The expansive road runs through four local government areas- Aniocha South, Ndokwa west, Ika South and Ika North east. Okowa’s timeless signature in the heart of thousands of people.

Even driving through that smooth road could not soothe Ochei’s nerves! What, then, would appease his insatiable anger?

There is something rather troubling about this rolling rage, which has become increasingly conspicuous since the NDC candidate entered the political contest.

Here lies a familiar tale.

Suddenly, in the senatorial contest, Delta North now seems to have its own Amalinze, the legendary wrestler in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. That character, who prances in restless strength with an illusion of invincibility. Yet, time would eventually expose the limits of such confidence, in comical crescendo. He was floored!

Yet, for a man known for his measured gait, Okowa will not wrestle with anyone. A man configured to stand has no reason to stoop. A veteran of battles. A winner of wars. He has nothing to prove.

He has repeatedly expressed his willingness to subject every era of his public service to scrutiny. There is nothing opaque about his public record. He believes that his decisions and stewardship are legitimate subjects of public examination.

Nevertheless, the demand for accountability should never become a licence for personalized attacks. Who speaks more eloquently than Okowa? He has never shied away from political debate. But a seasoned pugilist knows better than to enter a fake boxing ring, especially one built on obsessive theatrics.

As 2027 draws closer, Okowa is ready, his eyes set on the hills, determined to win, by divine grace, unmindful of distractions, whether debates or diatribes.

He deserves a seat in the Senate.

His credentials as an accomplished public officer and gentleman are evident. In multi-ethnic Delta, his gubernatorial legacies- from stadiums to multiple universities, roads to bridges, empowerment initiatives to job creation, peace-building to social cohesion, are too extensive to enumerate.

Okowa is bold without being loud. Neither boisterous nor boastful. He is quiet and mannerly, emblematic of a cultured gentleman.

That temperament has been reflected in his campaign: persuasive and suave.

Other senatorial candidates should imbibe Okowa’s approach. Speak to issues, not insults.

Vitriol does not win votes. Abuses do not count at the ballot box.

Beyond debate rhetoric and campaign stunts, voters deserve a clearly defined agenda. The hyperbolic claims surrounding what Ochei intends to accomplish as a senator often invite more questions than answers. He hopes to enter the Red chambers as a “lion”, an image he claims no previous Delta North senator has ever embodied.

At this defining moment, when the collective focus is on FORWARD ANIOMA, the senatorial district does not need political drama reminiscent of Simba in the playful Pride Lands of Mufasa. Delta North is fatigued by vague buzzwords and vacuous epithets.

What it needs is purposeful representation and strategic engagement,
which Okowa symbolizes with his experience, competence and charisma.

The choice before Anioma is not about who can roar the loudest, but who can offer the clout and character required to advance our collective aspirations.

Anioma does not need a lion but a scion.

-Norbert Chiazor (PhD)
2 November 2026

SENATE 2027: Okowa Thanks Arewa Community For Support, Pledges Inclusive Representation

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Former Delta State Governor and Delta North senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed appreciation to the Arewa community in Asaba for its support and goodwill during his tenure as governor, pledging inclusive representation if elected to the Senate in 2027.

Okowa gave the assurance during a campaign visit to the Arewa community at Cable Point, Asaba, where he reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the cordial relationship with non-indigenes resident in the state capital.

Acknowledging the warm reception accorded his campaign team, the former governor expressed confidence in his electoral prospects, attributing his optimism to the goodwill of the people and divine favour.

He urged members of the Arewa community to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that active participation in the electoral process was essential to determining the nation’s leadership and shaping the future of the country.

Okowa also called on eligible voters to support all APC candidates in next years general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the Arewa community, Alhaji Awalu Tukur commended Okowa for promoting inclusive governance during his eight-year tenure as governor, particularly his commitment to accommodating non-indigenes and ensuring their participation in government programmes.

Tukur cited the experiences of several non-indigenes who benefited from opportunities provided under the Okowa administration and said the former governor recognised and accommodated the interests of diverse communities.

He assured Okowa of the Arewa community’s support and continued loyalty as he seeks election to the Senate.

Also speaking, former Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye, extolled Okowa’s leadership qualities and record of public service. He expressed confidence that the Arewa community would mobilise support for the former governor and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

The campaign entourage included members of the Okowa campaign organisation, led by its Director-General, Hon. Pascal Adigwe.

Delta APC Sets November 5 for LGAs Campaign Tour, Releases Schedule

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Delta State Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its campaign timetable for the 2027 general elections, with the flag-off scheduled for November 5, 2026, in Isoko South and Isoko North Local Government Areas.
The campaign, which will cover the state’s 25 local government areas, is scheduled to run until January 7, 2027, when the grand finale will hold in Okpe Local Government Area.
According to the timetable signed by the Director-General of the Campaign Council, Senator James Manager, and Secretary, Efe Uko, the campaign will commence at Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South, at 10am before moving to Ozoro, Isoko North, at noon on November 5.
On November 10, the campaign train will visit Warri South-West at Ogbe-Ijoh by 10am and Udu at Otor-Udu by noon. The following day, November 11, activities will move to Oshimili North at Akwukwu-Igbo and Oshimili South in Asaba.
The campaign will proceed to Warri South and Uvwie on November 18, holding in Warri and Effurun respectively, while Burutu Local Government will host the campaign on November 24.
On November 26, the team will visit Warri North at Koko and Ethiope West at Oghara. Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West will host the campaign on December 1 at Aboh and Kwale respectively.
A presidential campaign rally is scheduled for December 12 in Asaba at 9am.
The exercise is also expected to bring party leaders and candidates closer to the people, while providing a platform to discuss issues affecting communities across Delta State.
The campaign tour forms part of the party’s broader efforts to expand its political influence, deepen its presence at the grassroots and mobilise support across the state.
The APC leadership is expected to use the exercise to sensitise members and supporters on the party’s political direction and encourage greater participation in its activities.

Eshor’s Arrival Turns Pastor Uduka’s Wife’s Burial Into Political Carnival In Ogwashi-Uku

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…As AAC Governorship Candidate Receives Rousing Welcome, Interacts With Party Faithful, Women and Youth Leaders

By Eshor Media Team

It was a moment of excitement, celebration and political enthusiasm in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, as the governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Engr. Isaac Eshor, stormed the community for the burial ceremony of Pastor Uduka’s wife.

Eshor’s arrival added colour and excitement to the burial ceremony, turning what was expected to be a solemn gathering into a carnival-like atmosphere, as guests, political associates, party faithful and residents expressed excitement over his presence.

Many of those attending the burial were eager to catch a glimpse of the AAC governorship candidate, with some taking the opportunity to interact with the man seeking to lead Delta State in the 2027 governorship election.

The visit also provided an opportunity for Eshor to strengthen his political relationship with grassroots stakeholders in Aniocha South, as he visited Pastor Uduka at his residence alongside distinguished party leaders, women and youth leaders, as well as other members of the AAC family.

The gathering witnessed meaningful interactions between the governorship candidate and party members, with particular attention given to strengthening grassroots participation and building a stronger political structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Women and youth leaders were also excited by the opportunity to meet and interact directly with Eshor and other party candidates, further reinforcing the connection between the party’s leadership and its grassroots supporters.

Speaking on the significance of the engagement, the AAC movement emphasised the importance of unity, solidarity, collective strength and people-oriented leadership as essential ingredients for building a better Delta State.

The party described itself as more than a political platform, stressing that it represents a movement committed to giving ordinary people a stronger voice in governance and creating opportunities for meaningful development.

The visit to Pastor Uduka’s residence was therefore seen as another opportunity to deepen political relationships, expand the party’s grassroots reach and strengthen its presence across communities in Delta State.

With the 2027 governorship election approaching, Eshor and his supporters are increasingly using community engagements and interactions with grassroots stakeholders to promote the AAC message and present their vision for the state.

The party’s message remains clear: “A New Face Is Possible!”

Together, they say, the movement is rising with the determination to build a new political direction for Delta State.

Enugu Needs Leadership Focused on Jobs, Infrastructure, Better Public Services- Ohaa

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The governorship candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State, Sir Chinyeaka Christian Ohaa, has declared that the state needs a new leadership direction anchored on job creation, infrastructure development and improved public services.
Ohaa made the declaration on Thursday, October 29, 2026, during the NDC town hall meeting in Enugu, where he emphasised the need for purposeful governance that delivers tangible benefits to residents rather than relying on political promises.
He maintained that the next administration must prioritise policies capable of improving living standards, expanding economic opportunities and addressing the everyday challenges confronting the people.
According to him, Enugu State has the potential to achieve greater development through sustainable economic policies, accessible healthcare, quality education and deliberate efforts to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
The NDC candidate stressed that governance should be measured by its impact on citizens, arguing that public resources must be deployed transparently and responsibly to deliver results that improve people’s lives.
He also underscored the importance of accountability, noting that public trust could only be strengthened when leaders placed the welfare of citizens above personal interests and partisan considerations.
At the meeting, Ohaa expressed support for former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, describing his vision of leadership as consistent with the demand for accountability, responsible governance and national development.
He reaffirmed his commitment to charting a new course for Enugu State, insisting that practical policies and people-oriented leadership were essential to unlocking the state’s economic potential and securing a better future for its residents.

Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua: Celebrating a Man Who Keeps His African Roots and Igbuzo Heritage Alive

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By: Newsbreeze
In a world where many Africans who have spent decades abroad gradually lose touch with their cultural heritage and ancestral communities, Obi Dr. Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, President of Vebron Carre Conglomerates, stands out as a remarkable example of a man whose love for his roots remains unwavering.
Despite living in the United States of America for several decades, Obi Dr. Ajudua has continued to demonstrate an exceptional attachment to his African identity, Nigerian heritage and, particularly, his beloved hometown of Igbuzo (Ibusa) in Delta State.
His decision to return home and embrace the traditional Eze title, symbolised by the revered red cap, speaks volumes about his commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of his people.
It was a move that attracted attention and admiration, demonstrating that geographical distance does not have to weaken one’s connection to ancestral roots.
For Obi Dr. Ajudua, America may be where he has lived and pursued his dreams, but Igbuzo remains home, a place whose history, traditions and cultural values occupy a special position in his heart.
Passing the Heritage to the Next Generation
Perhaps one of the most inspiring aspects of Obi Dr. Ajudua’s life is his determination to pass this love for home to his children.
While many parents living abroad struggle to maintain their children’s connection with their countries of origin, Obi Dr. Ajudua and his wife have deliberately nurtured in their children a strong appreciation of Nigeria, African culture and their Igbuzo ancestry.
This commitment is reflected in the fact that his children regularly visit Nigeria, maintaining relationships with their extended family, community and cultural environment.
His philosophy appears simple but profound: children may be born, educated or raised abroad, but they should never lose sight of where their family comes from.
This message has become particularly significant as the family prepares for a remarkable celebration involving two of Obi Dr. Ajudua’s sons, who are scheduled to get married this year.
In a decision that further demonstrates the family’s attachment to their homeland, Obi Dr. Ajudua and his wife Obi( Dr) Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua have chosen Nigeria as the venue for the forthcoming weddings rather than America.
The royal wedding celebrations are expected to take place in Lagos, Igbuzo and Asaba next month, bringing together family members, friends, associates and well-wishers from different parts of the world.
The decision to celebrate these important family milestones on Nigerian soil is more than a wedding arrangement; it is also a statement about identity, belonging and the importance of keeping family traditions alive.
A Message to Africans in the Diaspora
Obi Dr. Ajudua’s example offers an important lesson to Africans in the diaspora, particularly parents who want their children to appreciate their cultural backgrounds.
Living abroad should not mean abandoning one’s identity. Exposure to foreign cultures, modern education and international opportunities should complement, rather than replace, an appreciation of one’s roots.
There is a growing need for African parents to deliberately teach their children their languages, traditions, histories and community values so that future generations will not become strangers to the places their ancestors proudly called home.
Obi Dr. Ajudua has demonstrated that it is possible to embrace life abroad while remaining deeply connected to one’s homeland.
His commitment to bringing his children home and ensuring that they participate in important family and cultural activities sends a powerful message: wherever life takes an African, the connection to home should remain alive.
A Son of Igbuzo Who Cherishes His Heritage
Beyond his personal family commitments, Obi Dr. Ajudua is also recognised for his attachment to the development and well-being of his community.
His interest in Igbuzo, his contributions to people within the community and his willingness to identify with its cultural institutions reflect a man who understands the importance of belonging and community responsibility.
By embracing the Eze traditional title, he has also brought attention to an important aspect of Igbuzo’s traditional heritage, extending its visibility beyond the shores of Nigeria.
His story is a reminder that culture is not merely about ceremonies, titles, traditional attire or festivals. It is about identity, values, history and the responsibility to preserve what previous generations have handed down.
As the Ajudua family prepares to host the forthcoming royal wedding celebrations in Lagos, Igbuzo and Asaba, the occasion provides another opportunity to showcase the beauty of African traditions and the enduring importance of family roots.
Obi Dr. Henry Chukwuma Ajudua deserves recognition for the example he is setting in preserving his cultural identity and transmitting his love for Nigeria and Igbuzo to the next generation.
At a time when cultural preservation requires deliberate commitment, his life sends a message worth celebrating: You can travel the world, build a successful life abroad and embrace opportunities in other countries, but you should never forget your roots.
For Obi Dr. Ajudua, Igbuzo is more than a hometown; it is an identity, a heritage and a home to which he remains proudly connected.
His story is not just about a man who lives in America and returns to Nigeria. It is about a proud African who understands that no matter how far one travels, one’s roots remain an essential part of one’s identity.

Oborevwori Pledges Support for Uzere Communities Over Oil Spill

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has assured residents of Uzere Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area of his administration’s commitment to ensuring that oil companies fulfil their responsibilities to host communities affected by oil spills and other environmental hazards.
Oborevwori gave the assurance on Friday during an inspection tour of oil spill sites in Uzere, explaining that the visit was aimed at assessing the level of environmental damage and obtaining first-hand information to strengthen the state government’s engagement with the operating company.
The governor said his administration had been following developments in Uzere and other affected communities, including Odidi, through reports from government officials, community leaders and other stakeholders. However, he stressed the need to visit the affected locations personally to obtain a clearer understanding of the situation.
Recalling the state government’s response to a similar incident in Odidi, Oborevwori disclosed that more than 100 medical personnel had been deployed to provide healthcare services to affected residents. He assured the people of Uzere that a similar medical outreach would be organised for their community.
He consequently directed the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, to ensure that residents of the affected areas received adequate medical attention, including medical examinations to determine the possible health consequences of the incident.
The governor added that the planned medical intervention would also extend to residents of Uzere town.
According to him, the state government had engaged Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL), the company operating in the area, and received explanations regarding the steps taken to contain the incident.
He noted that the company had commenced preliminary consultations with the host communities before embarking on containment and cleanup operations, expressing satisfaction that the cleanup exercise was already in progress.
Oborevwori, however, emphasised that the cleanup must be followed by comprehensive environmental remediation to address the damage caused by the spill. He urged Heritage Energy to maintain open communication with the affected communities and ensure that their legitimate concerns were adequately addressed.
The governor also appealed to residents not to interpret delays in resolving some of their complaints as a lack of commitment by the government, explaining that established procedures and due process were necessary for addressing the issues.
“Delay is not denial. There are procedures and processes, and that is the reason for any delay. I am here with the Commissioners for Oil and Gas, Environment, Youth Development, Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, to see things for ourselves, meet with the host community and engage with the company,” he said.
He commended the people of Uzere for maintaining peace despite their grievances, noting that dialogue remained the most effective approach to resolving disagreements between host communities and oil companies.
Oborevwori further urged Heritage Energy to cooperate with the communities and demonstrate greater sensitivity to their concerns, assuring the residents that his administration would continue to support efforts towards a fair and lasting resolution.
Earlier, the Manager of Government and Community Relations at Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited, Dr. Jeremiah Oharisi, disclosed that the company was alerted to a gas build-up at the well on June 27.
Oharisi explained that the well had two production strings, identified as Lima and Syria, which were shut down in 2019 and 2023, respectively, leaving the facility inactive before the incident occurred.
He said the accumulation of gas within the reservoir eventually forced its way to the surface, resulting in bubbling and the escape of some crude oil.
According to him, the company immediately activated its emergency response procedures, including securing the affected location, sensitising the host community, evacuating residents from the immediate vicinity and deploying fire trucks. He added that measures were also initiated to contain and recover the escaping crude oil.
However, the President-General of Uzere Kingdom, Chief Edward Onyagbodor, expressed concern that the company’s intervention had largely been restricted to the provision of palliatives estimated at between N10.2 million and N10.6 million.
Similarly, a former President-General of the Isoko Development Union, Chief Iduh Amadhe, appealed to the governor to prevail on Heritage Energy to show greater commitment to the welfare and environmental wellbeing of its host communities.
Amadhe disclosed that Oil Mining Lease (OML) 30, operated by Heritage Energy, had 112 host communities, comprising 89 Urhobo, 13 Isoko, six Ijaw and four Itsekiri communities.

Delta Pilgrims Board Commences Distribution of Forms, Commends Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…Appoints Oghenesivbe Head of Media for 2026 Pilgrimage to Israel, Jordan

The Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the distribution of application forms for the 2026 Christian pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan, with intending pilgrims required to submit completed forms on or before November 9, 2026.

The Board commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving and releasing funds for the pilgrimage and directing local government council chairmen across the state to sponsor additional pilgrims in support of the state government’s efforts. The combined sponsorship commitment for this year’s exercise is expected to exceed ₦2 billion.

These disclosures were made on Thursday when the Board’s Executive Secretary, Rev. Fr. Christopher Ekabo, JP, paid a courtesy visit to the Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Wilfred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., at the Bureau’s office in Asaba.

During the visit, Rev. Fr. Ekabo presented application forms to Dr. Oghenesivbe and announced his appointment as Head of Media for the 2026 pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.

He said the appointment was unanimously approved by the Board in recognition of Oghenesivbe’s competence, professional experience and commitment to strategic media management of local and international engagements. Oghenesivbe will be assisted by Eunice Emezia, a senior reporter with Voice of Delta Radio, Asaba.

The Board disclosed that distribution of the forms commenced on October 27, 2026, urging interested and eligible Christians in Delta State to complete and return their applications within the stipulated period.

It emphasised that November 9, 2026, was the final deadline for submission of completed forms, advising applicants to comply strictly with the timeline to facilitate proper documentation and preparations for the exercise.

According to Rev. Fr. Ekabo, screening of intending pilgrims has been scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, and Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Secretariat in Asaba. Applicants are expected to attend the screening as directed by the Board.

The Board clarified that Deltans who had previously benefited from the state’s pilgrimage programme were ineligible to apply for the 2026 exercise. It warned that any previous beneficiary who submitted an application would be automatically disqualified.

Rev. Fr. Ekabo further disclosed that successful applicants would be airlifted to Israel and Jordan during the last week of November 2026, with all pilgrimage expenses to be borne by the Delta State Government.

The pilgrimage is designed to provide Christian faithful with opportunities for spiritual revival, consecration and deeper engagement with biblical history through visits to significant religious sites in Israel and Jordan.

Among the sites of spiritual interest is the traditional location associated with the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ. Visits to these places are expected to enrich participants’ understanding of biblical events and strengthen their Christian faith.

The Board said the pilgrimage would also provide an opportunity for participants to pray for Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State, Governor Oborevwori and their respective families, as well as for the peaceful conduct of the 2027 general elections.

Pilgrims are equally expected to pray for their personal spiritual growth and families, as well as the peace, unity and continued development of Nigeria and Delta State.

The Board expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for approving and releasing funds for the pilgrimage, noting that his administration’s support would facilitate the participation of eligible Christian faithful in the spiritual exercise.

It also commended the Governor’s directive to local government council chairmen to sponsor additional pilgrims, noting that the initiative would complement state government funding, broaden participation and strengthen the programme’s reach across Delta State.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring an orderly and well-coordinated pilgrimage, urging intending pilgrims to comply with the eligibility criteria, submission deadline and screening arrangements.

Rev. Fr. Ekabo expressed optimism that the 2026 pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan would be spiritually rewarding for participants, while providing them with an opportunity to renew their faith and offer prayers for the peace and progress of the nation and Delta State.

Oborevwori Charges New Head of Service on Fairness, Accountability, Workers’ Welfare

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…Reaffirms Commitment To Training, Other Incentives For Civil Servants

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged the newly appointed Head of Service (HOS), Mrs. Charity Babigha-Ehimen, to lead the state civil service with fairness, humility and integrity, while strengthening discipline, accountability and efficient service delivery.

Oborevwori gave the charge Thursday during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Head of Service, where he urged her to deploy her wealth of experience in the public service to improve the performance of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Congratulating Babigha-Ehimen on her appointment, the governor noted that she had served in various capacities since joining the Delta State Civil Service in 1993. He recalled that she rose through the ranks to become a director before her appointment as Permanent Secretary in 2019.

“I expect you to put that experience to good use in your new role,” the governor said, urging her to work closely with Permanent Secretaries and heads of agencies to promote discipline, accountability and prudent management of public resources.

The governor stressed that effective leadership in the civil service required more than supervision and enjoined Babigha-Ehimen to encourage workers, provide the necessary support for their professional development and demonstrate the standards expected of them.

“Your responsibility is not just to supervise the service, but to help our people work better and serve the public with pride,” he said.

Oborevwori also called on Permanent Secretaries, directors and heads of MDAs to cooperate with the new HOS, emphasising that collective commitment was essential to achieving a more efficient and responsive public service.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, citing regular payment of salaries, sustained investment in training and the introduction of incentives to improve staff morale and productivity.

The governor further explained that the 13th-month salary initiative was designed to provide workers with a substantial end-of-year financial benefit, rather than the traditional distribution of food items.

He disclosed that his administration had also approved the construction of 12 additional duplexes for Permanent Secretaries, as well as a clubhouse for civil servants, with the contract for the latter expected to be awarded soon.

While commending the immediate past Head of Service, Dr. Minimie Oseji for her dedication to the state, Oborevwori wished her a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.

The governor urged civil servants to remain committed, honest and diligent in the discharge of their duties, irrespective of the political season, while appealing to political leaders and their supporters to shun intimidation and violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Responding, the HOS who expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for finding her worthy of the appointment, pledged to discharge her responsibilities with dedication, fairness and integrity, while ensuring effective implementation of the MORE Agenda to improve service delivery across the state.

Babigha-Ehimen unveiled a four-point strategic action plan aimed at building a competent, digitally empowered, disciplined and productive civil service, adding that the plan would focus on human capital development and digitalisation, workers’ welfare, internal collaboration, and teamwork with Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments.

She also acknowledged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to workers’ welfare, citing the 13th-month salary, capacity-building initiatives, pension and retirement benefits, and prompt payment of salaries.

Delta’s Agricultural Sector Gets Boost Under Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

… As Olam Agri Sets to Establish Animal Feed Plant In Delta

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has taken another step towards strengthening agricultural development and food security in the state with the presentation of a Certificate of Occupancy covering 99.99 hectares of land at Ogwashi-Uku to Olam Agri for the establishment of an animal feed production plant.

The proposed investment is expected to help address the supply gap in animal feed in the South-South and South-East, reduce the region’s dependence on supplies from the South-West and strengthen the livestock value chain.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony at Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday, Governor Oborevwori said his administration remained committed to creating an enabling environment for genuine investors, stressing that peace, due process and cooperation were essential to attracting investments and sustaining economic growth.

The Governor described the land allocation as an important step towards expanding agricultural opportunities in Delta State, noting that investments in food production could stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods.

He said; “this occasion reflects our commitment to following due process in all our dealings. As a government, we are determined to create an enabling environment for investors to thrive and for businesses to grow.

“We recognise that peace, unity and cooperation are essential to attracting investment. When a community is peaceful and its people work together, investors are more willing to establish businesses there.

“Such investments create opportunities for economic growth, employment and development. Our government will continue to support genuine investors who are willing to contribute to the development of our state. We believe that partnerships with reputable companies in the agricultural sector can help boost food production, create jobs and improve livelihoods”.

Oborevwori also commended the traditional institution and other stakeholders whose efforts had helped sustain the peace and cooperation necessary for investments of this nature, reiterating his administration’s commitment to agricultural productivity and food security.

In his remarks, Olam’s Managing Director, Mr. Amit Agarwal said the company had identified the South-South and South-East as a strategic location for its next animal feed production facility because of the two regions dependence on supplies from the South-West.

He explained that Olam Agri already operated plants in the South-West but wanted to bring production closer to markets in the South-South and South-East to improve supply and address the region’s feed production deficit.

The Managing Director expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for supporting the project, saying the company looked forward to working with the state government, the traditional institution and the host community to ensure its successful implementation.

Obi of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom, HRM Obi Dr. Ifechukwudi Okonjo II, urged the company to ensure that the host community benefited from the project through employment, internship opportunities, skills development and technology transfer.

123...262Page 2 of 262

MOST READ

LATEST STORIES

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© 2022 - The Hill Nigeria