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AAC Governorship Candidate Eshor Deepens Stakeholder Engagement, Seeks Estu Nupe Royal Blessing Ahead of 2027

By: Sam Ugochukwu

The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the 2027 Delta State governorship election, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has intensified his consultations with key stakeholders across the country, paying a courtesy visit to the revered Estu Nupe, His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, to seek royal blessings and guidance ahead of the forthcoming election.

Eshor, who described the Estu Nupe as a father figure and long-time mentor, said the visit formed part of his nationwide engagement with traditional institutions and opinion leaders as he prepares for the 2027 governorship contest.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the AAC governorship hopeful emphasized the importance of traditional rulers in nation-building, noting that they remain custodians of culture, peace, and community values.

According to him, traditional rulers occupy a unique position in society and play critical roles in promoting unity, stability, and development among the people.
I paid a consultation visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, the Estu Nupe, as part of my ongoing stakeholder engagements across the nation. I deeply value the wisdom, counsel, and leadership of our traditional rulers, whose contributions to peace and development remain invaluable, Eshor stated.

The AAC candidate recently received an endorsement from the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) during an event held in Abuja. He said the endorsement reflects the growing confidence of Nigerian youths in his vision for leadership and development.

Eshor further noted that his roots and relationships extend beyond Delta State, describing himself as a true Nigerian who has built strong ties across various regions of the country.

The governorship aspirant disclosed that his consultations have also taken him to several traditional rulers in Delta State. He recalled his recent visit to the palace of
His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, the Estu Nupe,where discussions centered on peace, unity, and sustainable development in Delta State and the Nigeria13j at large.

According to Eshor, the engagements with royal fathers are aimed at fostering collaboration and gathering valuable insights that will contribute to the progress of Delta State.

Our discussions focused on the continued peace, unity, and development of our people, as well as the collective responsibility we share in advancing the interests and wellbeing of our communities. I remain committed to working with all stakeholders in pursuit of a stronger, more united, and more prosperous Delta State, he said.

He expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers for their warm reception and valuable counsel, assuring that their advice would continue to guide his efforts as he seeks to offer leadership and development-driven governance for the people of Delta State.

Political observers view Eshor’s consultations with respected traditional institutions as part of a broader strategy to strengthen grassroots engagement and promote inclusive dialogue ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Delta Has Been Held Hostage by Political Cabals Since 1999 — Eshor

ASABA — The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in Delta State, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has called on Deltans to critically reassess the state’s political leadership ahead of the 2027 governorship election, alleging that political cabals have dominated the state’s affairs since 1999.

Eshor expressed concern over what he described as a disconnect between the state’s substantial revenue profile and the level of development experienced by residents across urban and rural communities.

He argued that Delta State, endowed with abundant natural resources and significant public revenue, should demonstrate more visible progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, electricity, water supply and other essential services.

The AAC candidate questioned the condition of infrastructure in Asaba, the state capital, as well as other major urban centres, including Warri, Sapele, Ughelli and Agbor.

He also expressed concern over the pace of development within the Asaba capital territory, comprising Asaba, Ibusa, Okpanam and Issele-Azagba, arguing that the area should reflect the development standards expected of a state capital and its surrounding communities.

“Can we honestly compare the state of development in our capital territory with what obtains in other state capitals across Nigeria? The answer, in my view, is no,” Eshor said.

He maintained that the condition of roads and other public infrastructure in parts of the state raises questions about the priorities of successive administrations and the management of public resources.

According to him, several rural communities continue to face inadequate road networks and limited infrastructure, challenges he said affect agriculture, commerce and other economic activities.

Eshor further raised concerns about the education and healthcare sectors, citing what he described as inadequate facilities, infrastructure deficits and concerns over teachers’ welfare.

He identified reliable electricity, potable water and efficient transportation as critical areas requiring greater attention, stressing that development should not be measured solely by the construction of prominent urban projects.

Questions Over Revenue and Infrastructure Spending
On public expenditure, Eshor cited figures suggesting that Delta State had received more than ₦4.219 trillion in federal allocations and internally generated revenue since 2023.

He questioned whether the scale of development visible across the state adequately reflected the reported revenue inflows, calling for greater transparency in public spending and project implementation.

The AAC candidate also questioned the cost of the five flyovers frequently referenced in discussions about infrastructure development in the state, putting their combined cost at an estimated ₦177 billion.

However, the figures cited by Eshor, including the reported revenue total and flyover expenditure, require independent verification against official budget, revenue and project records.

Eshor argued that while major road and bridge projects could contribute to urban development, the government should also prioritise public schools, healthcare facilities, rural roads, water supply and other services that directly affect the daily lives of residents.

He called for a governance model that would ensure a more balanced distribution of development projects and public investments across the state.

The AAC governorship candidate urged Deltans to assess political officeholders based on their records, public service delivery and the measurable impact of government policies on citizens.

Delta State has enormous potential, but our people deserve to see that potential translated into better roads, functional schools, accessible healthcare, reliable water supply and economic opportunities. We cannot continue to celebrate revenue without asking what the people are getting in return, he said.

He maintained that the 2027 governorship election would provide an opportunity for residents to examine competing governance proposals and determine the priorities they expect from the next administration.

Eshor also urged young people, professionals, traders, farmers and community leaders to participate actively in the democratic process and demand accountability from those seeking public office.

He advocated stronger public institutions, transparent financial management, productive investments and sustained rural development, arguing that public resources should be directed towards projects that address the most pressing needs of communities across Delta State.

The AAC candidate concluded that the central issue for Deltans should be whether the state’s substantial resources are translating into tangible improvements in living standards, public services and economic opportunities.

2027: Eshor Media Team

Police Arrest Suspected Armed Robber, Recover One Ak-47 Rifle, Two Locally Made Cut-To-Size Guns, Three Rounds Of Live Ammunitions

The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old suspected armed robber in Asaba and recovered three firearms and ammunition during an intelligence-led operation.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), Ughelli, acting on credible intelligence in collaboration with local vigilantes, arrested Sunday Nimel (26), a suspected member of an armed robbery syndicate allegedly responsible for several residential armed robbery operations in Asaba and its environs.

During interrogation, the suspect made useful statements that led operatives to a hideout near Okpanam City Gate, where one (1) AK-47 rifle, three (3) rounds of live ammunition and two (2) locally made cut-to-size guns were recovered. Investigation is ongoing.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, commended the operatives for the successful operation and reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and the dismantling of criminal networks across the State.

He urged residents to continue supporting the Police with credible information, assuring that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property.

Oborevwori Orders Immediate Overhaul Of All Dilapidated Public Schools In Delta

…Inaugurates Model Technical College, Oghareki

…As Ibori Assures Of Massive Support For Tinubu, Oborevwori, Others In 2027

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has directed the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education to assess all dilapidated public primary and secondary schools across the state for immediate rehabilitation.

Oborevwori issued the directive on Friday at the inauguration of the newly completed Model Technical College, Oghareki, in Ethiope West Local Government Area.

“I have directed that all schools in Delta State that are in deplorable condition, whether primary or secondary, should be assessed for immediate rehabilitation,” he said.

The governor urged the relevant authorities to begin the scoping without delay, stressing his administration’s commitment to building an efficient and robust education system.

He said the State Executive Council had recently directed the education ministries to identify public schools requiring urgent intervention.

Oborevwori said maintaining more than 1,400 primary schools and 480 secondary schools across the state was a major responsibility requiring sustained investment and planning.

At the inauguration, the governor said the Model Technical College, Oghareki, demonstrated his administration’s commitment to equipping young people in Ethiope West and neighbouring communities with practical skills that would make them employable and economically independent.

He said the institution has state-of-the-art workshops, staff and student accommodation, and sports facilities and urged the management, staff and students to maintain the facilities for future generations.

He also disclosed that his administration would complete and inaugurate three additional model technical colleges at Irri in Isoko South, Kiagbodo in Burutu and Akugbene in Bomadi local government areas before December 2026.

Oborevwori announced a N50 million education support fund for Miss Ogheneovo Davina, a Junior Technical II student who addressed him extempore on behalf of her fellow students.

The governor cited progress in road infrastructure, education and healthcare, including developments at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, and the construction of four male and female hostels at Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, and Delta State College of Education, Mosogar.

He commended former Governor James Ibori for initiating development projects across the state and urged Deltans to support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and other All Progressives Congress, APC, candidates in the 2027 general elections.

In his remarks, Chief James Ibori thanked Governor Oborevwori for what he described as impressive development projects across the state, particularly in Urhobo land.

He also acknowledged former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose administration initiated the technical college project, and commended Oborevwori for completing it.

Ibori assured the governor of the support of the people of Oghara and Ethiope West in the 2027 elections, saying; “we have prayed for grace and wisdom to pilot the affairs of our great state”.

The member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, praised the quality of the project and Oborevwori’s decision to complete it.

She said the large turnout at the inauguration would translate into electoral support for the governor in 2027 and commended him for uniting the party across different divides in the state.

Earlier, Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Onogba, described the inauguration as a landmark achievement and said the governor’s development initiatives and political realignment from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC had fostered unity across Delta State.

Speaking for the host communities, the Oghara monarch, HRM Noble Eshemitan, Orefe III, Uku Oghara Na Me, congratulated Oborevwori on the completion of the project.

Speaking on behalf of the students,
Davina thanked the governor for his commitment to technical education and pledged that the students would use the facilities to acquire practical skills, improve their prospects and become self-reliant after graduation. She said she would have given her vote to Governor Oborevwori in 2027 if she was 18 years.

IYD: Oghenesivbe Charges Delta Youths on Innovation, Leadership, Self-Development

…Says Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, Tinubu’s Renewed Hope initiatives creating opportunities for youths

The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., has charged Delta youths to embrace creativity, innovation, education, entrepreneurship and leadership development as essential tools for personal advancement and meaningful contributions to society.

Oghenesivbe gave the charge at the International Youth Day celebration organised by the Delta State Ministry of Youth Development at Unity Hall, Government House Asaba, urging young people to pursue purposeful ambitions, cultivate discipline, embrace continuous learning and transform their talents into productive ventures.

He said the 2026 International Youth Day theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” reflects the shared aspirations of young people across communities and countries for quality education, decent employment, meaningful participation in decision-making and a sustainable future.

The Bureau Chief stressed that the celebration should go beyond ceremonies to address youth challenges and promote investments in skills acquisition, digital inclusion, innovation and economic empowerment.

He urged young people to reject the notion that education is a scam, noting that formal education, vocational training, digital competence and practical experience remain critical pathways to self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.

Oghenesivbe said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration remains committed to youth development through the MORE Agenda, which prioritises Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. He noted that its emphasis on human capital development, enterprise support and skills acquisition was designed to expand opportunities for young people.

At the national level, he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for pursuing youth-focused initiatives under the Renewed Hope agenda, particularly those linking education, digital skills, technical training and entrepreneurship with emerging economic opportunities, especially NELFUND providing financial assistance to indigent students nationwide.

He emphasised the need to translate government policies into practical benefits that enable youths to acquire marketable skills, establish businesses, secure decent employment and contribute to economic growth. He therefore encouraged eligible young people to take advantage of available programmes and apply their knowledge to solving community challenges.

The Bureau Chief urged Delta youths to remain focused on their ambitions, stressing that responsible leadership requires perseverance, service, discipline and consistent personal development.

He cited Governor Oborevwori’s progression from community leadership in Osubi to Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and subsequently Governor as an example of how commitment, experience and public service can prepare individuals for greater leadership responsibilities.

Oghenesivbe also encouraged youths to participate actively in civic affairs, community development and legitimate democratic processes, including politics, where they could contribute ideas and influence decisions affecting their future.

On digital engagement, he advised young people to use social media to promote creativity, entrepreneurship, positive community initiatives and credible information, while avoiding misinformation, cyberbullying and divisive content.

Oghenesivbe said digital platforms should serve as tools for learning, innovation, public enlightenment and responsible engagement.

Earlier, the immediate past Commissioner for Youth Development, Trakiriowei Harry ThankGod, now the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Patani State Constituency, urged Delta youths to deploy their talents in the service of the state, Nigeria and humanity.

Trakiriowei commended Governor Oborevwori for his commitment to youth development, empowerment and human capacity building, noting that sustained investment in young people was essential to building a prosperous and inclusive society.

The event attracted youths from the three senatorial districts of Delta State, including political appointees responsible for youth development.

The celebration reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between government and young people in expanding opportunities, nurturing talent, encouraging innovation and strengthening democratic governance and sustainable development.

Delta State Commissioner Urges Youths to Shun Cultism, Drug Abuse, Cybercrime

The Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Brave Oyinkro Enodeh has urged young people in the state to shun cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, political thuggery and other destructive behaviours, stressing the need for youths to embrace skills acquisition, innovation, entrepreneurship and responsible citizenship.
The Commissioner made the call during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration held at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, on Thursday, October 8, with the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
He said young people, despite their different backgrounds, cultures, economic circumstances and social environments, shared common aspirations for quality education, decent employment, economic opportunities, peace, security, inclusion and a meaningful role in shaping society.
According to him, the theme underscores the need to recognise the common dreams of young people and develop inclusive policies and programmes that address their needs, irrespective of their circumstances.
He stressed that young people should not be regarded merely as leaders of tomorrow but as partners and leaders in the present, adding that government must create an enabling environment for them to contribute meaningfully to development.
He said the Delta State Government remained committed to creating opportunities that would enable young people to become productive, self-reliant and responsible citizens.
According to him, the Ministry of Youth Development would continue to collaborate with relevant ministries, departments and agencies, the private sector, development partners, civil society organisations and youth groups to implement programmes that respond to the needs of young people. He identified skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development, employability, leadership development, digital literacy, innovation and social inclusion as key areas of focus.
The Commissioner also encouraged young people to look beyond the pursuit of white-collar jobs by exploring opportunities in entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, creative industries and other emerging sectors of the economy.
He maintained that youth development policies and programmes must be inclusive and accessible to all categories of young people, including those in rural communities, persons with disabilities, students, apprentices, farmers, artists and young entrepreneurs.
“No young person should be left behind,” he emphasised, calling for deliberate efforts to ensure that opportunities reach youths regardless of their location, gender, social background, educational status or physical condition.
Addressing the youths, the Commissioner urged them to acquire relevant skills, embrace technology, cultivate positive attitudes and remain committed to continuous learning in a rapidly changing world.
He noted that young people who would succeed in the future must be prepared to adapt, innovate and develop solutions to the challenges confronting their communities.
Enodeh further called on youths to promote peace, tolerance, hard work, integrity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, rather than engage in activities capable of undermining their future.
The Commissioner said society needed young people who could create businesses rather than depend solely on paid employment, use technology to generate opportunities, identify problems and develop solutions, as well as provide responsible leadership.
He, however, noted that youth development was a collective responsibility requiring the active participation of parents, schools, traditional institutions, religious organisations, private-sector players, civil society groups, development partners and the youths themselves.
Enodeh called on stakeholders to create an environment where young people could express themselves, develop their talents, participate in decision-making and contribute to community development.
Reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to youth development, the Commissioner said the aspirations of young people across different communities remained connected by their desire for opportunities, recognition, inclusion and a better future.
He assured the youths that their ideas and contributions were important to building a stronger Delta State, urging them to work together with confidence, creativity, courage and determination.
He concluded that differences in background and circumstances should be transformed into strengths, while challenges should become opportunities for growth and development.
Also speaking, the former Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. ThankGod Trakiriowei, urged youths to rise above their backgrounds and present circumstances by embracing skills acquisition, innovation, digital technology and entrepreneurship. He noted that although young people across the state face different challenges, they share common aspirations for opportunities, dignity, economic independence, peace and inclusion.
He emphasised that opportunities in today’s world are no longer limited by geographical boundaries, urging youths to prepare themselves through education, financial intelligence, effective communication, meaningful networking and problem-solving skills. He also called for a shift from dependence on government employment to entrepreneurship, farming, vocational skills and business creation.
Trakiriowei expressed concern over the loss of young lives to drug abuse and negative peer influence, advocating sustained efforts to combat substance abuse and rehabilitate affected youths.
He further urged young people to promote unity across ethnic, religious and political divides, stressing that they are active contributors to the development of Delta State today, not merely leaders of tomorrow. He encouraged them to pursue their ambitions with available resources and work in partnership with government and other stakeholders to build a better future for the state.
He concluded by challenging youths to look beyond what the future could offer them and consider what they were prepared to contribute to its development.
On his part the Director General of Orientation Bureau, Hon. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe urged the youths to embrace innovation, creativity and forward-thinking ideas that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to governance, community development and the political future of the state. He said International Youth Day should go beyond celebrations, entertainment and the sharing of stipends, stressing that it should provide an opportunity for young people to develop practical solutions to societal challenges.
He challenged youths to ask themselves what new ideas they could bring to the table to improve the lives of young people, transform politics and earn a place in leadership and decision-making positions. Citing examples of young innovators and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s early leadership experience, he emphasised that age should not be a barrier to achievement.
Oghenesivbe also encouraged youths to use their creative talents in music, writing, video production and social media to communicate ideas and participate meaningfully in the political process ahead of the 2027 elections.
He urged them to develop constructive proposals and present them to the relevant authorities rather than relying solely on political loyalty, while expressing confidence in the state government’s plans for youth development.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Emmanuel Emuakpeje while congratulating the youths advised them to be of good conduct.
The event featured lectures, symposium on the theme of the event and goodwill messages.

World Bank Projects Nigeria’s Economy to Grow by 4.4 Percent Annually Through 2028

The World Bank has projected that Nigeria’s economy will grow by an average of 4.4 per cent annually through 2028, with inflation and poverty expected to decline if the Federal Government sustains its economic reforms and improves public service delivery.
The projection was contained in the bank’s latest Nigeria Development Update, which highlighted the potential benefits of ongoing economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidies and changes to the foreign exchange system.
According to the report, these measures have increased the revenues available to state governments, creating opportunities for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education and healthcare.
The World Bank noted that Nigeria’s economy expanded by 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, compared with 3.9 per cent growth recorded in 2025. The expansion was driven largely by activities in the services and agricultural sectors.
The lender also projected that inflation could decline to approximately 12 per cent by 2028 from its current level of around 15 per cent, provided the government maintains the momentum of its reforms.
Speaking at the presentation of the report, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the reforms had contributed to economic stabilisation and placed the country on a path towards stronger growth.
Oyedele explained that Nigeria’s economy was expanding faster than its population, adding that sustained growth could help reduce poverty and improve living conditions across the country.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting private sector-led economic growth, with emphasis on creating jobs and expanding opportunities for Nigerians.
The World Bank further disclosed that state government revenues increased by approximately 93 per cent in real terms between 2023 and 2025.
However, it urged state governments to improve the efficiency of public spending and prioritise investments in human capital, noting that effective resource management and improved access to essential services would be critical to raising living standards and reducing poverty.

INEC Reaffirms Commitment To Credible 2027 Elections, Seeks Stronger Media Partnership At Gocop Conference

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting transparent, credible and trustworthy elections in 2027, unveiling measures to strengthen electoral technology, protect election results and combat misinformation ahead of the polls.

The Commission also urged online publishers and other media organisations to prioritise accuracy, responsible reporting and voter education as Nigeria approaches the 2027 General Elections.

The INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, made the call in a keynote address delivered by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Lagos State, Prof. Ayobami Salami, at the 10th Annual Conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), held in Lagos on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

The conference, themed “2027 Elections – Trust, Transparency and Shared Responsibilities,”brought together media professionals, election stakeholders, academics, civil society organisations and other participants to examine the role of public confidence and shared responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

With 98 days to the January 16, 2027 Presidential and National Assembly Elections, Amupitan said INEC had recorded significant progress in implementing its statutory timetable and strengthening its operational, technological and logistical capacity.

He disclosed that the Commission had embarked on a multidimensional overhaul covering election administration, technology, logistics, staff capacity and field readiness.

According to him, INEC’s operations are coordinated through 23 headquarters departments and directorates, 36 state offices, including the Federal Capital Territory, and 774 Local Government Area offices nationwide.

Providing an update on voter registration, the INEC Chairman disclosed that the three phases of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise conducted between August 2025 and July 2026 captured more than 10.6 million new voters.

He said the development had brought Nigeria’s National Register of Voters to a historic 103 million registered citizens following the completion of data processing and synchronisation.

Amupitan announced that nationwide collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) would commence on Friday, October 9, 2026, urging GOCOP members and other online publishers to mobilise registered voters and provide accurate information on designated collection centres.

He stressed that the media had a critical responsibility to ensure eligible voters were adequately informed about the collection exercise and other activities on the electoral timetable.

On the deployment of technology, Amupitan highlighted upgrades to the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the enhanced eEC8A system, designed to improve the electronic visibility of polling unit results.

He also disclosed that the Commission was deploying artificial intelligence-supported auditing and strengthening its cyber-defence systems to protect electoral databases and critical infrastructure.

The INEC Chairman, however, cautioned that technology alone could not guarantee credible elections, noting that electoral trust must be earned through consistent, verifiable and transparent implementation of the electoral process.

He said public confidence depended on faithful compliance with electoral laws, effective logistics, internal discipline and transparent communication with citizens.

A major focus of the keynote address was the growing influence of digital media on electoral credibility.

Amupitan warned that fake news, unverified leaks, sensational reporting, politically charged narratives about violence and AI-generated deepfakes could undermine public confidence, heighten political tensions and discourage voter participation.

Delta State Commissioner Of Police Holds Strategic Lecture With Senior Police Officers

…Reaffirms Commitment To Discipline And Professional Policing

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, psc, mnips, has held a conference with senior police officers of the Command at the State Police Headquarters, Asaba.
The CP spoke on the importance of discipline, professionalism, intelligence-led policing, respect for human rights, and accountability in the discharge of police duties.
CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, psc, mnips further reiterated zero tolerance for corruption, extortion, and other acts of indiscipline, while reaffirming his commitment to proactive policing, safety and security of all residents of Delta State.

83 Army Division: Air Defence Regiment In Delta Will Boost Security, Devt Says Gov. Oborevwori 

…Preparation In Top Gear, As Over 300 Troops Set To Arrive

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said the establishment of a Air Defence Regiment of the 83 Division of the Nigerian Army in the state will strengthen security, protect critical national assets and accelerate development.

Oborevwori stated this on Thursday during an inspection of facilities and ongoing works for the establishment of the Air Defence unit of the Nigerian Army in the state.

The governor, who was accompanied by the Chief of Standards and Evaluation, Nigerian Army, Major General Thompson Ugiagbe, and Commander, 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ibrahim Buhari, said the state government was committed to providing the necessary support for the military and other security agencies.

He said the newly created 83 Division, comprising Delta, Edo and Bayelsa states, would significantly enhance the capacity of the Nigerian Army to respond to security threats across the three states.

According to him, the division comes with several component units, including an Air Defence unit, whose establishment in Delta became necessary because of the strategic location of the state and its proximity to the airport.

Oborevwori said the state had provided land for a temporary facility for the Air Defence unit while arrangements were being made for its permanent site.

He disclosed that the first batch of between 300 and 400 military personnel was expected to arrive in the state within the next few weeks.

“We need to support the security agencies because without security, there cannot be development,” the governor said.

He added that the improved security architecture in Delta had contributed to the reduction of incidents of armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.

Oborevwori said the presence of the new military formation would also help to protect critical national assets, particularly oil and gas infrastructure in the state.

“The most important benefit is to secure national assets and the people. That is the truth. If you don’t have all these security formations here, you know how it will be,” he said.

The governor commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and protecting lives and property in the state.

He said his administration would continue to collaborate with security agencies, noting that the partnership had contributed to the growing confidence of residents, investors and businesses in Delta.

Oborevwori also recalled his recent visit to the Trans-Forcados pipeline area, where he said residents were happy with the improved security situation.

He said the state government was working with the military and other stakeholders to ensure that the required facilities were provided for the new formation.

The governor directed the Commissioners for Housing and Lands to commence the necessary assessment and scoping of the temporary site, including existing structures that would require attention.

He said the state government was ready to play its part to ensure that the Air Defence unit commenced operations within the expected timeframe.

Oborevwori stressed that security remained a major pillar of his administration’s development agenda, maintaining that no meaningful economic or infrastructural development could be sustained without peace and stability.

He said the establishment of the 83 Division and its component units would, therefore, further strengthen Delta’s security architecture while enhancing the protection of lives, property and critical national assets.

The governor urged the military and other security agencies to sustain their cooperation with the state government and other stakeholders in the collective interest of Deltans and the nation.

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