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Delta Assembly Passes ₦1.7 Trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State House of Assembly, has passed the State Appropriation Bill of 1.7 trillion naira for the 2026 fiscal year.

The amount is 65.6 billion naira higher than the 1.654 trillion naira budget size presented to the House about two weeks ago by the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

A breakdown of the approved budget shows 500 billion naira as recurrent expenditure and one trillion, two hundred and twenty nine point nine billion naira as capital expenditure.

The third reading and subsequent passage of the Appropriation Bill was sequel to the presentation of the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations by its Chairman, Hon Marylin Okowa-Daramola (Ika North-East) at plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

The motion for the third reading and passage of the bill was moved by the Leader of the House, Hon Emeka Nwaobi (Aniocha North), seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo (Ethiope East) and adopted.

Addressing the House after the passage, the Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor described the development as a landmark achievement in line with the policy direction of the state government.

He said: “Distinguished colleagues, with the third reading and final passage of the Delta State 2026 Appropriation Bill, we have successfully completed one of the most critical constitutional duties of this Honourable House for the fiscal year as enshrined in Section 121 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered).

“The passage of year 2026 Appropriation Bill, totaling One Trillion, Seven Hundred and Twenty Nine Billion, Eight Hundred and Eighty One Million, Two Hundred and Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Seventy Nine Naira (1,729,881,208,779), is a landmark achievement and a clear testament to the shared vision and spirit of partnership between the Legislature and the Executive. It demonstrates our collective resolve to build a future for Delta State that is “just, fair and equitable,” and one where no one is left behind.

Continuing Guwor noted “Through the process of deliberation and scrutiny, this House has ensured that the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda”is indeed people-centered and sustainable. We have provided the legislative framework that will empower His Excellency, the Governor, to deliver on his policies and programmes in 2026.

“At this juncture, I wish to deeply appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O Oborevwori, our dear Governor, for his vision of unparallel development of the State. Again, my sincere appreciation goes to every member of the House; your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the service of Deltans have made this process fruitful. We have worked with speed and thoroughness, and the result is a robust and forward-looking financial plan for the year 2026”, the Speaker concluded.

Egbo, Tasks Community Publishers on Responsible Journalism

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Hill Nigeria
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Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Hon. Jaro Egbo, has charged community publishers to uphold professionalism and responsibility in their reporting, warning that misinformation has the power to destroy lives, communities, and public trust.
Egbo made the appeal while playing host to some community newspaper publishers led by the Senior Special Advisor to the Governor on Community Newspaper, Prince Oromonokpaye at his office in Ughelli.
According to him, misinformation remains one of the most dangerous threats to society.
He lamented the growing trend of sensational and unchecked reports circulating across social media and online platforms, noting that many tragic incidents in Nigeria have gone unreported or misreported due to the failure of journalists and content creators to verify facts before publishing.
“Information properly used or misused can change lives,” Egbo said. “People have lost their lives without proper reports. Citing the EndSars era, he said It was roughly unreported. If those stories were handled responsibly, the outcome would have been different.”
He expressed frustration over how easily unverified claims, including inflated figures and false allegations, spread online without scrutiny.
He urged media practitioners to embrace integrity, accuracy, and professionalism, stressing that their role in society is critical.
“You have a duty to fact-check before publishing,” he cautioned. “Some people believe anything negative. But if your platform publishes it, people will assume it is credible. That is why you must uphold your responsibility.”
Egbo also advised journalists to engage more with public offices and verify stories directly from credible sources like the council’s information department.
The Chairman highlighted the council’s ongoing infrastructural projects, including the modern security architecture being built in the local government, which he described as “a statement of what governance should be.”
“When we commission that project, it will speak for us,” he said. “It is not about how many press releases you issue. Let your work speak.”
On his part, Oromonokpaye commended the Chairman for delivering on the MORE Agenda of the state governor.

Ewhrudjakpo Demise: Oborevwori Condoles Diri, Family, Bayelsans 

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Douye Diri, the Government and people of Bayelsa State over the passing of the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the death of Senator Ewhrudjakpo, affectionately known as “a man of many proverbs” as both tragic and deeply saddening.

The Governor noted that Senator Ewhrudjakpo was a man of uncommon wisdom, intellect and humility, and whose contributions to governance and public service left a lasting impact on the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

Oborevwori said: “I join the Governor, his family, Government and people of Bayelsa State, friends and allies in mourning Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

“He was a team player, a dependable partner in leadership and a fountain of wisdom. His passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life.”

The Governor also extended prayers for God’s comfort to the bereaved Governor, Senator Douye Diri, family, and the people of Bayelsa State, and urged them to take solace in the legacies of service and dedication left behind by the late Deputy Governor.

“On behalf of my family, the people and Government of Delta State, I pray that the Almighty God grants Governor Douye Diri, his family and all who mourn him the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo, who served as Deputy Governor under Governor Douye Diri, was widely respected across the Niger Delta region for his eloquence, deep grasp of governance and his trademark use of proverbs in public communication.

Tompolo Hails Wike at Birthday, Describes Him as Courageous, Result-Driven Leader

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Hill Nigeria
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High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has showered praises on the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, describing him as a public servant whose leadership is defined by courage, conviction and an unwavering commitment to duty.

In a birthday goodwill message issued on behalf of the management and staff of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), Tompolo said Wike’s career in public service has consistently reflected purposeful leadership anchored on impact rather than mere rhetoric.

He noted that from Wike’s early days in public administration, through his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, and now as Minister of the FCT, his approach to governance has remained focused on results, resilience and service to the public good.

According to him, Wike’s influence in the Federal Capital Territory is already evident, with renewed attention to infrastructure development, orderliness and accountability—an indication of a hands-on leadership style that appreciates Abuja’s symbolic and strategic importance to national unity and governance.

Tompolo also commended the minister for his clear understanding of the nexus between security, development and national stability, stressing that Wike’s emphasis on law, order and institutional discipline aligns with Tantita’s mandate of safeguarding critical national assets and promoting a secure environment for sustainable growth.

He further described Wike’s popular appellation as “Mr. Project” as well deserved, citing his track record of performance and courage to take tough decisions in the interest of the people.

“In times that require firmness, you have consistently chosen responsibility over convenience, standing by your convictions even when the road was challenging,” Tompolo stated.

While wishing the minister a happy birthday, Tompolo prayed for renewed strength, sound health, wisdom and continued success, expressing confidence that Wike’s ongoing service to the nation would leave an enduring legacy of development and unity.

“May the years ahead bring greater fulfilment and further opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the progress of Nigeria,” he added.

Staff Welfare, Training our Top Priority, says Chairman, Local Government Service Commission

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Hill Nigeria
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The Chairman of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Hon.(Pst) Joseph Otirhue has assured staff of the Unified Local Government Service, of the Commission’s continuous commitment to their welfare and training.

The Chairman gave this assurance during the opening ceremony of the Pre-retirement seminars organised by the Commission in collaboration with Meviz Integrated Ventures, Meritlink Consulting and Fabock Ventures at Oputa hall in Ozoro and Wetland Hotel Ughelli, Delta State.

While flagging off the seminars, Hon. Otirhue stressed that, the Commission is deeply committed to the welfare of both staff in the service and retired ones hence the decision to prioritise capacity building programmes to sensitize and empower officers on how to manage their careers, finances and well-being effectively.

Speaking , Otirhue said the seminar was part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to prepare the workforce for a smooth and successful transition from active service to retirement.

He explained further that, retirement was an inevitable part of every public servant’s career journey which should be a phase of rest, fulfilment and reward for years of service instead of panic and confusion adding that, the key to achieving this lies in early and adequate preparations and planning.

The Commission Chairman while commending the participants for their commitment to work said, “Retirement” is a phase of life, where retirees are given an opportunity to venture into other areas of life they never had the chance to experience while in active service therefore, adequate preparation with planning is needed adding that, he who fails to plan, plans to fail.

Furthermore, Otirhue said the seminar is for every officer who wishes to live a stable and productive life after active service and as such, knowledge gained from the training will help officers to make wise decisions about savings, investments, health management and personal development.

While expressing joy and satisfaction for the calibre of facilitators mobilized for the training workshop, he told the participants who massively turned up for the seminar to pay apt attention to the lecturers in order to prepare themselves for the period of retirement adding that many retirees face challenges due to lack of planning and preparation.

However, he advised that early planning and preparations will pave way for better opportunities to enable them enjoy peace of mind when retirement eventually comes.

Otirhue affirmed that, the Commission’s objective was to produce public servants who gracefully retire and not become liabilities to themselves, families and the society at large.

He also added that the Commission had invested alot of funds and resources into the training workshop as it is the Commission’s mandate to train and retrain her staff, he therefore enjoined all participants to be focused on getting trained for the days ahead of them.

The seminar tagged “Retirement Planning and Management For Officers in Delta South Senatorial district” of the Delta State Unified Local Government Service, was well attended with seasoned Resource persons who took participants on topics such as “Health and Wellness Management, Payment Options in the Contributory Pensions Scheme and Understanding Death Benefits Management in the Contributory Pensions Scheme amongst others.

Delta State Flourishes Under APC, Rendering Opposition Parties Irrelevant – Oghenesivbe

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has declared that opposition parties are unnecessary in Delta State, citing the remarkable achievements of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.

In an exclusive interview with Voice of Delta Radio public affairs program, “Orientation Panorama” on Wednesday, Oghenesivbe stated that the people of Delta State are happy and satisfied with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), enjoying substantial economic growth, peaceful coexistence, security, and infrastructure development, thereby making opposition parties impotent and ineffective in the state.

He attributed the gross inefficiency and political impotency of opposition parties to governor Oborevwori’s pragmatic and visionary leadership, anchored on openness, inclusivity, accountability, transparency and prudent management of resources, highlighting mega infrastructure projects and steady economic growth since he assumed office.

Oghenesivbe emphasized that opposition parties have no reason to criticize the governor and the ruling APC, making their survival unlikely, pointing out that a vibrant opposition is needed in a situation where the party in power and the governor are under performing. He noted that the dividends of democracy under Oborevwori in less than three years in office already surpassed his electioneering campaign promises.

The Bureau Chief urged opposition parties gasping for political oxygen to collapse into the APC for relevance, congratulating Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on his decision to defect to the APC, describing the political development as a “good omen” for South-South geopolitics, a complete APC zone.

Oghenesivbe praised the Delta Central Senatorial District Stakeholders Meeting, where leaders reaffirmed their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, resolving to work together to deliver the party’s candidates in 2027, noting that the meeting was a huge success due to the commitment, passion and unity of purpose exhibited by all leaders and stakeholders.

He commended party leaders, including Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, Elder Omene Sobotie, Olorogun Otega Emerhor, Senator Ighoyota Amori, Hon Stella Okotete, Chief John Oguma, Chief Andrew Oru, and Chief Sunday Onoriode, for their efforts in strengthening the party.

“Delta is a one-party state, the APC. Opposition parties cannot be relevant under a performing governor and a purposeful, vibrant, and productive ruling party. Deltans have resolved to distance themselves from those who do not mean well for the state.

“Opposition parties shall remain grossly impotent in Delta till the terminal date of Oborevwori administration in 2031,” Oghenesivbe declared.

Akwukwu-Igbo Community Honours Miss Chelsea Amaka Iweanyi in Grand Reception and Public Lecture

By
Hill Nigeria
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Akwukwu-Igbo, the headquarters of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, witnessed an inspiring display of love, pride, and communal spirit as it honoured one of its rising stars, Miss Chelsea Amaka Iweanyi, for her exemplary leadership and contributions to humanity and community development.

The event, held on Friday, 5th December 2025 at the Akwukwu-Igbo Town Hall and streamed live by LEAP TV, drew an impressive crowd of both young and elderly attendees who gathered to celebrate Miss Iweanyi and listen to the guest speaker, Prof. (Mrs.) Joyce Ogho Ogwezi, a renowned communication specialist and Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Dennis Osadebay University, Anwai, Asaba.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Dr. Newton Jibunoh, the Nnaobodo of Akwukwu-Igbo, conveyed the royal blessings of His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) David Azuka, the Obi of Akwukwu-Igbo.

Chief Jibunoh described the event as a reaffirmation of one of the core values of the community, which is rewarding good deeds and discouraging negative conduct. He praised Miss Iweanyi for bringing pride to the town and urged her to remain focused, as she now symbolises a torch bearer entrusted with greater responsibility.

Prof. Ogwezi delivered a profound and intellectually stimulating lecture on the theme: “Value Reconstruction and Civic Responsibility: A Catalyst for Sustainable Community Development.” She emphasised that value reconstruction is essential in nurturing rational thinking, strengthening communal cohesion, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting healthier social communication.

In a passionate call to action, she cautioned against the indiscriminate sale of ancestral lands to non-indigenes; a practice she warned could erode cultural and generational values. She urged the community to think generationally and safeguard the inheritance of future children.

Prof. Ogwezi further commended the honouree for her courage, encouraging her to remain persistent and undistracted in pursuit of her passions.

The President-General of the Akwukwu-Igbo Community Development Association, Chief Ikechukwu Iwegbu, congratulated Miss Iweanyi on her achievements and charged the youth to emulate her exemplary conduct.

Delivering the welcome address, Mr. Godfrey Osakwe, fnipr, Chairman of the Organising Committee and Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Delta State Chapter, stressed the urgent need for value rebirth and character regeneration among Nigerian youths.

He explained that the theme of the lecture was both timely and compelling, noting that the purpose of the gathering extended beyond celebrating Miss Iweanyi’s outstanding service during her National Youth Service in Kaduna; where she rebuilt a clinic at her place of primary assignment. Her remarkable feat earned her a prestigious national award presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Mr. Osakwe underscored the importance of positive ventures, advising young people to uphold strong virtues; to stay focused, and remain unwavering despite their background or present challenges.

Mr. Daniel Anazia, a 2025 Mandela Washington Fellow, encouraged youths to leverage digital tools for personal development and community service. He urged them to position themselves as catalysts of transformational leadership for sustainable development.

In her emotionally charged remarks, Miss Iweanyi shared her journey marked by hardship, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. She spoke about her humble beginnings and how her determination, grounded in trust in God, paved the way for her achievements.

She highlighted the work of her NGO, which focuses on; rehabilitation of drug addicts, advocacy for unpaid workers and supporting children’s education with essential learning materials. She encouraged young people to cultivate resilience and maintain strong faith as they work toward their goals.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of gifts to Miss Iweanyi by the Akwukwu-Igbo community. The event also featured the launch of a Plastic Recycling Receptacle Initiative, aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and best practices within Akwukwu-Igbo and its environs.

The event attracted notable stakeholders, including: Chief Sunny Okonta, the Odogwu of Akwukwu-Igbo, Her Royal Highness, Omu Grace Ekw

utoziam Osibe, the Omu of Akwukwu-Igbo, Rev. Father Francis O. Ofozor, the Parish Priest, St. Raphael’s Catholic Church, Akwukwu-Igbo, and several traditional title holders, community leaders, and distinguished men and women across the community.

Bauchi Govt Debunks Claims of Governor’s Defecting to PRP

By
Hill Nigeria
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Bauchi State Government has dismissed claims suggesting that Governor Bala Mohammed is considering defecting to the Peoples Redemption Party, (PRP).

The clarification followed a statement attributed to the PRP Publicity Secretary in the state, Hon Wada Abdullahi, alleging that the governor was not welcome to join the party. The government described the remark as “false” and “a product of imagination.”

According to Abdullahi, the party’s attention was drawn to circulating reports suggesting that Governor Mohammed might seek refuge in the PRP following the “alleged disintegration” of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nationwide.

However, the PRP declared that even if the rumours were true, the governor would not be welcomed.

Abdullahi stated that Governor Mohammed’s leadership record in Bauchi State falls short of the standards the party upholds.

But responding to PRP in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado, said Governor Mohammed has never contemplated leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), adding that no move—direct or indirect—had been made toward joining the PRP.

He noted that the governor’s political strength has been demonstrated in his electoral victories over the PRP in previous contests.

The government maintained that Bauchi has continued to record progress under Mohammed’s administration, citing gains in empowerment, infrastructure, rural development, urban renewal and tourism.

It also criticised the PRP’s stance, saying the party had failed to appreciate ongoing reforms, including the restructuring of traditional institutions and transfer of certain powers aimed at improving governance.

Gidado urged residents to remain watchful and not be swayed by “habitual criticism” from political actors seeking relevance.

Nwoko Family Beams With Pride As Kingsley Nwoko Is Decorated Major General 

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Senator Ned Nwoko Honours Brother’s Elevation

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko was on hand to witness the investiture ceremony of newly promoted Major Generals at the Nigerian Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, on Wednesday.

The event brought together senior military officers, government officials, and families to celebrate the elevation of officers in recognition of their dedication and outstanding service.

Among those honoured was Maj. Gen. Kingsley Nwoko, brother of Senator Ned Nwoko, who was promoted from Brigadier General to Major General. The promotion was part of a broader investiture of senior officers who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, discipline, and commitment to national security.

Senator Ned Nwoko described the promotion as a proud moment for the entire Nwoko family and for Anioma. He noted that the Nwoko family has always been associated with service, discipline, and commitment to the greater good—values his brother has consistently upheld throughout his career. He added that Kingsley’s elevation to Major General is “a well-deserved recognition of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering service to the Nigerian Army and to our nation,” and said the family and Anioma community are deeply proud of his accomplishments.

Oghenesivbe Congratulates UPU PG Ese Gam on Re-election, Urges Urhobo Unity

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has congratulated Chief (Barr) Ese Gam Owe on his re-election as President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) for a second term.

In a goodwill message, Oghenesivbe praised Owe’s leadership, noting that his tenure has fostered unity within the Urhobo nation, ending leadership factions and promoting peace.

He acknowledged past challenges caused by disunity but credited Owe with restoring harmony, transparency and accountability in the union.

Oghenesivbe highlighted Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s efforts to drive development across Delta State, including the Urhobo nation, emphasizing the need for rapid infrastructure and socioeconomic growth across the kingdoms.

The Bureau Chief urged Owe and his executive to collaborate with stakeholders and Urhobo sons and daughters in strategic positions to promote progress.

“The Urhobo nation will develop faster than any other ethnic nationality in the state if all well-endowed sons and daughters unite and mobilize expertise and resources for the common good,” Oghenesivbe said, listing examples of successful Urhobos in public and private sectors.

He prayed for sustained peace, unity, and progress, wishing Chief Owe and his team good health, divine protection, and wisdom to deliver on their responsibilities.

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