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DTSG Unveils Massive School Revamp, Approves 12 New Duplexes For Perm Secs

By
Hill Nigeria
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…N7bn Ezhionum–Ogume Road, lawmakers’ quarters, hospital roads also approved

The Delta State Government has approved a massive rehabilitation and reconstruction work in primary and secondary schools across the state, with the job expected to commence in the coming weeks.

The decision was among the major resolutions reached at Monday’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education had been directed to immediately assess schools across the state’s 25 local government areas and identify the ones requiring rehabilitation or complete reconstruction.

He said the intervention was aimed at providing pupils, students and teachers with safer and more conducive environments for teaching and learning.

“The governor has directed that the two ministries should immediately come up with the scope of these different schools that need to be rehabilitated or reconstructed so that government can immediately proceed to put them in order,” Aniagwu said.

The commissioner said the decision formed part of the administration’s broader commitment to improving public infrastructure and delivering visible projects across the state.

Also, Exco moved to boost workers’ welfare, with the approval of the construction of 12 additional duplexes for Permanent Secretaries. Aniagwu recalled that the administration recently inaugurated new residential quarters for Permanent Secretaries and provided them with official vehicles.

The commissioner also disclosed that the state government was working on a proposal, to be backed by legislation, for the payment of a 13th-month salary to civil servants.

He described the proposed payment as a reward for workers’ dedication and contribution to the development of the state.

The Council also approved additional residential quarters for members of the Delta State House of Assembly, following the increase in the number of constituencies from 29 to 38. The development will bring nine additional lawmakers into the Assembly.

Aniagwu said Governor Oborevwori had directed the Ministry of Housing to commence the process of providing accommodation for the incoming legislators ahead of their assumption of office.

Aniagwu also announced approval for the construction of 92 residential quarters for medical personnel at the Osubi Specialist Hospital, adding that the accommodation comprises 24 units for resident doctors and 68 units for house officers.

He said the project was part of the administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of healthcare workers and provide better working conditions at the facility.

Aniagwu said Council also approved the reconstruction of the 9.35-kilometre Ezhionum–Ogume Road at an estimated cost of more than N7 billion, saying the project would open up rural communities, improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities in the area.

Other road projects approved include; the reconstruction of Uba Egbelemeji–Ugbenikoko Road in Warri North; rehabilitation and reconstruction of Mosogar Community Road Junction–Okwueka Road; and reconstruction of the Old Oviorie–Agbarho–Eku Road.

To tackle flooding around the Specialist Hospital in Asaba, the Council according to Aniagwu, approved the completion of the storm drainage project around the facility.

Similarly, the government approved the reconstruction of internal roads at Warri Central Hospital to improve access and movement for patients, healthcare workers and visitors.

Speaking further, he said Exco equally approved the termination of some contracts over poor performance, adding that the affected contracts were terminated following recommendations by the State Tenders Board after the contractors failed to deliver the projects at the expected pace.

Among the contracts terminated were; the Okerenkoko Township Road; construction of Adjei Street and School Road with interlocking stones at a new layout in Warri South; and the permanent office complex for the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC).

He said the termination would allow the government to commence fresh procurement processes and re-award the projects to contractors with the capacity to deliver them.

Aniagwu said the decisions underscored the administration’s determination to ensure timely delivery of public projects and prevent taxpayers’ money from being tied down in abandoned or poorly executed projects.

He listed the massive school rehabilitation programme, additional accommodation for Permanent Secretaries, lawmakers’ quarters and major road projects among the key decisions taken at the Executive Council meeting.

Senator Ede Dafinone: The Case for Continuity, Competence and a Stronger Delta Central

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq.

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the people of Delta Central Senatorial District will once again be presented with an important choice about the future of their representation in the Nigerian Senate. At the centre of that choice is Senator Ede Dafinone, whose first term has been defined by purposeful representation, measured leadership and a sustained commitment to the development of his constituents.

Dafinone’s bid for a second term, therefore, deserves to be viewed not merely as a political ambition, but as a call for continuity at a time when experience, stability and effective representation matter greatly.

Since his election in 2023, Senator Dafinone has brought to the Senate a combination of professional discipline, economic knowledge and private-sector experience that has enriched his approach to public service. With academic training in economics and professional distinction as a chartered accountant and tax practitioner, he possesses a technical understanding of the issues increasingly shaping Nigeria’s economic and institutional future. His experience in business and corporate governance has equally positioned him to approach legislation and oversight with an appreciation of accountability, efficiency and sustainable development.

These qualities have found practical expression in his legislative responsibilities. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, Dafinone occupies positions with direct implications for Nigeria’s industrialisation, employment generation, institutional accountability and economic development.

For Delta Central, these responsibilities are particularly significant. The district’s economic fortunes are deeply connected to Nigeria’s energy sector and to the broader effort to expand indigenous participation in the national economy. Dafinone’s committee roles therefore provide an important platform from which the interests of his constituents can be advanced within the wider national policy framework.

One of the defining features of Senator Dafinone’s representation has been his emphasis on human capital development in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda. His interventions in education, technical training, digital skills and youth empowerment reflect an understanding that the most enduring constituency projects are those that equip people with the capacity to build sustainable livelihoods.

From educational infrastructure to skills-development initiatives, his approach has increasingly connected physical projects with the broader objective of preparing young Nigerians for the economy of the future. This emphasis is especially relevant in a constituency with a large youthful population and a growing need for opportunities that extend beyond traditional employment pathways.

His legislative agenda has similarly demonstrated an effort to respond to emerging national challenges. Initiatives relating to digital sovereignty and fair data compensation, agricultural universities, professional planning and improved service delivery speak to a senator who understands that Nigeria’s development challenges extend beyond roads and buildings.

They also touch on the quality of institutions, the digital economy, food security, professional standards and the effectiveness of government itself. A second term would provide an opportunity to deepen these initiatives, strengthen the legislative groundwork already laid and pursue their completion with greater experience and institutional knowledge.

For Delta Central, continuity in representation also means continuity in advocacy. The district needs a senator who can combine an effective presence in Abuja with sustained engagement at home. Its priorities remain clear: infrastructure, electricity, education, employment, agriculture, technical skills, healthcare and greater access to federal opportunities.

Senator Dafinone’s growing record provides a foundation upon which these priorities can be consolidated and expanded. More importantly, his experience in the Senate now gives him a clearer understanding of how to navigate the legislative process, engage federal institutions and convert constituency needs into national policy conversations.

There is also a wider economic argument for returning him to the Senate. Delta Central sits within one of Nigeria’s most economically strategic regions, and its development is inseparable from the country’s ability to maximise the opportunities in the oil and gas industry while preparing for a more diversified economy. Through his role in local-content oversight, Dafinone is strategically positioned to advocate for greater Nigerian participation in energy-sector opportunities, indigenous manufacturing, technical capacity, technology transfer and employment for young Nigerians.

For a region with such a strong connection to the nation’s energy economy, effective participation in the local-content agenda is not simply a matter of national policy. It is directly connected to the prospects of businesses, professionals, entrepreneurs and young people across Delta Central.

His professional background gives this responsibility additional significance. At a time when Nigerians are demanding greater accountability, better value for public resources and more effective institutions, representation informed by economics, accounting, taxation and corporate governance is an asset.

Dafinone’s experience enables him to engage public policy not only from the standpoint of politics, but also from the perspectives of financial discipline, economic productivity and institutional performance. That combination of political representation and professional competence is particularly valuable in a national legislature increasingly confronted with complex economic and technological questions.

A second term would also allow the Senator to move from initiation to consolidation. Many public-policy interventions require persistence across several legislative cycles before they produce their full benefits. Bills require committee consideration, harmonisation, passage and executive assent. Constituency projects require implementation, monitoring and, where necessary, follow-through. National reforms demand sustained oversight before their intended outcomes can be fully realised.

Continuity, therefore, offers an important advantage: institutional memory. It allows a legislator to build upon work already commenced rather than repeatedly starting afresh. For Dafinone, four additional years would provide the opportunity to deepen existing initiatives, strengthen relationships across relevant institutions and translate experience accumulated during the first term into greater effectiveness.

For Nigeria, the benefit extends beyond the boundaries of Delta Central. The country needs legislators who can contribute meaningfully to debates on economic growth, digital transformation, local content, education, professional standards, public-sector efficiency and youth employment. A Dafinone second term would provide an opportunity to deepen his contribution to these national conversations while bringing the specific development interests of Delta Central firmly into the national policy agenda.

For the people of Delta Central, therefore, the question before 2027 should be larger than personalities and political contests. It should be about the value of experience, the credibility of performance and the promise of what can be achieved with four additional years of purposeful representation.

Politics is ultimately about choices, and responsible choices often involve strengthening what is working while demanding even greater results.

Senator Dafinone’s journey in the Senate is still at an important stage. His first term has established a foundation; a second can become a period of consolidation, expansion and more delivery of dividends of democracy. With greater legislative experience, stronger institutional relationships and a clearer understanding of the needs of his constituents, he is better placed today than he was in 2023 to turn advocacy into deeper and more measurable outcomes.

That is the heart of the case for continuity. It is not a case for continuity for its own sake. It is a case for retaining the experience already acquired, building upon initiatives already commenced and creating the opportunity for a stronger second phase of representation. It is continuity tied to performance, experience linked to responsibility and political mandate matched by higher expectations.

Delta Central deserves representation that is accessible, technically grounded and development-focused. Nigeria, in turn, benefits when its National Assembly is populated by legislators capable of connecting local priorities with national policy and economic transformation.

In 2027, Delta Central will not merely be choosing a senator; it will be choosing the direction in which its voice in Abuja should travel.

Senator Ede Dafinone offers a compelling proposition: a blend of professional competence, legislative experience, constituency engagement and a demonstrated interest in human-capital and economic development. His second-term bid provides an opportunity to consolidate that trajectory, broaden its impact and demand even more from it.

The choice, ultimately, is about building on a foundation rather than abandoning it. It is about continuity that produces stronger results, representation that creates wider opportunities and leadership that understands that public office is a responsibility, not a privilege.

For Delta Central and for Nigeria, another term for Senator Ede Dafinone can be an investment in continuity, competence and a stronger future.

***
Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., is an APC communication strategist, and a member of the institute of legal and Policy Studies (ILPS).

Federal Cooperative College, Oji-River Empowers Igbuzo Cooperators Today in Programme Facilitated by Pastor Idowu Okeze

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Ike Philip Abiagom

Today marks the grand finale of one of the most impactful and far-reaching empowerment programmes ever witnessed in Igbuzo and its surrounding communities, facilitated by renowned philanthropist and community leader, Pastor Idowu Okeze, through the Federal Cooperative College, Oji-River.

The initiative, which has empowered hundreds of beneficiaries with skills, support packages and opportunities for economic advancement, is another testament to Pastor Okeze’s unwavering commitment to the welfare and development of his people.

For many residents, Pastor Okeze has become a symbol of hope, compassion and selfless service. His numerous interventions over the years have touched virtually every segment of society, including widows, youths, women, the elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

Community members who have worked closely with the respected philanthropist attest that Igbuzo remains constantly on his mind. According to them, Pastor Okeze is always concerned about how to reduce poverty, create opportunities and improve the standard of living of the people.

His empowerment programmes have continued to bring relief to struggling families while providing many young people with the tools and resources needed to become self-reliant.

Through various initiatives, he has helped countless individuals establish businesses, acquire vocational skills and improve their economic circumstances.

Many widows in Igbuzo have benefited from his generosity, while numerous youths have received support that has enabled them to pursue productive ventures. His interventions have not only provided immediate assistance but have also created lasting opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

As beneficiaries receive empowerment packages worth millions of naira at today’s grand finale, observers have described the programme as a major milestone in the fight against poverty in the community.

Newsbreeze Magazine commended Pastor Okeze for his exceptional dedication to community development and urged all beneficiaries to make prudent use of the opportunity provided to them.

This empowerment programme is more than a gift; it is an investment in the future of the beneficiaries and the entire community.Those who have benefited should utilize the resources wisely, grow their businesses and become employers of labour, the publication stated.

The Newsbreeze further noted that through this initiative, many beneficiaries have been given a fresh start and a pathway toward economic independence.

As the programme concludes, prayers and goodwill continue to pour in for Pastor Okeze, with many residents expressing gratitude for his sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the progress of Igbuzo.

The people of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities have prayed that God Almighty will continue to bless, guide, protect and reward Pastor Idowu Okeze abundantly for his humanitarian services and enduring love for his people.

Kidnappers Demand ₦20m Ransom Per Person for 15 NYSC Members Abducted While Travelling to Abuja

By
Hill Nigeria
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Kidnappers have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for each of the 15
National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted while travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja.

The corps members were reportedly kidnapped along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, shortly after completing their mandatory three-week orientation programme in Bayelsa.
According to reports, the abductors have contacted some of the victims’ families and demanded ₦20 million for the release of each captive.
The development has heightened anxiety among relatives of the affected corps members, particularly those whose loved ones are still being held by the abductors.
They also called for stronger security measures along major highways to prevent further abductions of corps members and other travellers. Kogi State Police Command had earlier confirmed the incident and said a joint security operation led to the rescue of 11 abducted persons, including the drivers of the two vehicles. Security agencies are continuing efforts to locate and rescue those still in captivity.
Meanwhile, families of the remaining victims have appealed to the Federal Government, NYSC management and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their safe and immediate release.

Oshimili South APC Rallies For 5/5 Victory: Leaders Charged to Mobilize, Monitor and Deliver in 2027

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Oshimili South Media Team
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Oshimili South, Ogbueshi Dada Okolo, has charged party leaders across the LGA to intensify efforts towards delivering all APC candidates in the forthcoming elections.


Speaking during a meeting with LGA leaders in Asaba, he thanked them for their commitment despite busy schedules and urged them to do more to ensure victory.
Following tours to several wards, Ogbueshi expressed satisfaction with the leadership in the visited wards and called on leaders in other wards yet to be visited to be more proactive. He also pleaded with councillors to engage their ward members actively to secure their backing ahead of the polls.


Ahead of the campaign, Ogbueshi Okolo emphasized the need for the party to secure the royal blessings of monarchs and traditional leaders. He disclosed that the party plans to reach out to the “Anya Asagba” in all communities across the local government.


To ensure accountability, he announced that a committee will be set up to monitor performance and ensure each ward delivers for the party. This, he said, is part of the strategy to consolidate APC’s presence in Oshimili South.


Other leaders at the meeting also gave strategic advice, Chief Edwin Uzor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, warned against anti-party activities and said anyone found culpable would be suspended.


Hon. Gabriel Chuks Okpuno called for more political strategies to be channeled to satellite communities to guarantee full victory, while Alhaji Awalu Takur, Chairman of Delta State Muslim Pilgrim Board, announced a 5-man committee to reach out to non-indigenes in Ward 11.

The immediate past Vice Chairman Hon. Ify Ogbogu also urged women to shun gossip and take the lead in mobilization, noting that women are key to winning elections.
In his remarks, High Chief Prof. Leroy Edozie enjoined leaders to uphold the party in love and unity and be ready to deliver APC at all levels.


The meeting ended with ward leaders giving updates on activities in their respective wards and Hon. Emmanuel Odiaka in his freewill gave out the sum of Ten Million Naira alongside Ogbueshi Dada Okonji popularly known as BlackMan who also donated One Million Naira all in a bid to support the official flag off of the forthcoming local government election campaign.

Oborevwori, Arigbodi Families Give Glory To God As Children’s Wedding Ends In Thanksgiving

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has attributed the successful completion of the marriage ceremonies of his son, Innocent, and Tobore Arigbodi to the faithfulness and grace of God.

Speaking on Sunday after a thanksgiving service at Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road, Asaba, the Governor thanked family members, guests, political associates, traditional rulers and well-wishers for their support, prayers and presence throughout the celebrations.

Oborevwori said God was with the families during the traditional marriage, church wedding, reception ceremony and thanksgiving, providing favourable weather, protection and journey mercies for guests who travelled from different parts of Nigeria and beyond.

“From the traditional marriage to the church wedding and now this thanksgiving service, God has been with us every step on the way,” he said.

He described the massive turnout as remarkable, noting that some people attended without formal invitations simply to share in the family’s joy. He thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the celebrations and prayed for the newlyweds.

“We pray that the new couple will enjoy a peaceful, prosperous, fruitful and God-centred marriage,” he said, adding, “To God alone be all the glory, now and forever.”

Father of the bride, Chief Brodericks Arigbodi, described the wedding as the beginning of a new chapter for the couple and express ed gratitude to God for the successful ceremonies.

Arigbodi said the family was grateful for God’s provision, which enabled relatives, friends and well-wishers to travel from across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate the union, noting that the traditional marriage was held in Isiokolo on August 26.

He prayed that God would keep the couple together, strengthen their love and help them fulfil their dreams and urged the couple to make God the foundation of their marriage.

He advised them to be guided by Christian principles, saying this would help them remain committed to each other and build a happy and enduring home.

Earlier in his sermon, Pastor Samuel Johns urged Christians to take responsibility for their health, stressing that while God heals, believers must avoid habits that could harm their bodies.

Johns said some afflictions could result from satanic attacks or generational battles and urged believers to trust God for healing and restoration.

He identified Holy Communion, anointing oil and prophetic mantles as provisions for healing, stressing that their effectiveness depends on faith rather than the objects themselves.

He prayed for divine restoration for those experiencing setbacks and also offered prayers for peace, progress and prosperity in Nigeria.

Governors, Top Government Functionaries, Traditional Rulers, Others Storm Asaba As Oborevwori’s Son, Innocent, Weds Tobore

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Asaba, the Delta State capital, was agog on Saturday as governors, deputy governors, political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, captains of industry and other dignitaries from across the country converged for the wedding ceremony of Innocent Oborevwori, son of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to his heartthrob, Tobore Arigbodi, daughter of Chief Brodericks Arigbodi.

Among the governors who graced the occasion were AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto.State and Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State.

First Ladies from several states, including Kwara, Kogi, Gombe, Taraba, Nasarawa, Cross River, Ekiti, Sokoto, Kaduna, Borno, Bauchi, Abia, Osun, Edo and Imo, were also in attendance.

The ceremony also attracted the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme; Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Patricia Obila; and the Deputy Governor of Kano State, alongside other senior government officials and political leaders.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, was among the dignitaries who attended the wedding.

Other prominent personalities at the occasion included the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo; former Delta State governors, Chief James Ibori and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Senator Ede Dafinone; members of the National Assembly; the Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor; former speakers of the Assembly; and the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.

Traditional rulers at the ceremony included the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (retd.); the Olu of Warri, HRM Atuwatse III; and the Dein of Agbor, HRM Keagborekuzi II and a host of others.

Also present was the Chairman of Access Bank Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; the Managing Director of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr Adaora Umeoji; UBA MD Oliver Alawuba; Managing Director of PremiumTrust Bank, Emmanuel Efe Emefienem; other captains of industry.

The solemnisation of the marriage was held at the Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel), Ibusa Road, Asaba, where the State Pastor, Pastor Shiyanbade Adekunle, charged the newlyweds to build their marriage on wisdom, sacrificial love, mutual respect and commitment.

Adekunle, in his sermon, described wisdom as the “working capital of marriage”, stressing that couples must rely on God and His Word to successfully navigate the different seasons of married life.

At the reception held at the Event Centre, Asaba, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who chaired the occasion, congratulated the couple and their families on the union.

Sani described the wedding as more than a celebration of love, saying it represented the coming together of two families, histories and destinies.

“It is with profound joy and a deep sense of privilege that I stand before you today as chairman of this beautiful reception, celebrating a union that has brought together two families, two histories and two destinies in the sacred covenant of matrimony,” he said.

The governor said the occasion marked the fulfilment of parental hopes and the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the couple, who had chosen to walk through life together.

“May your home be a place of peace when the world is at war, a place of laughter when days are hard, and a place of prayer when challenges come,” he said.

He concluded by congratulating the couple and wishing them a long, fruitful and beautiful marital journey.

The wedding brought together political leaders across party lines, traditional rulers, business leaders and religious figures, turning Asaba into a gathering point for Nigeria’s political, business, traditional and religious elite.

Federal Cooperative College Oji-River to Empowers 100 Igbuzo Youths Through Idowu Okeze’s Intervention

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Ike Philip Abiagom

No fewer than 100 cooperators from Igbuzo and neighbouring communities are set to benefit from a Federal Government-backed empowerment programme facilitated by renowned philanthropist and community leader, Pastor Idowu Okeze,(Ukpe Igbuzo) in collaboration with the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River.

The empowerment programme, scheduled to hold on Monday, August 31, 2026, at St. Augustine’s College, Igbuzo, is aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, self-reliance, job creation and sustainable economic development among beneficiaries.

As part of the initiative, participants will receive various vocational tools and equipment, including generator sets, washing machines, gas cylinders, industrial sewing machines, hair dryers, ovens, cooking pots, standing fans and other essential starter packs designed to support small-scale businesses and skilled trades.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Empowerment Coordinator, Dr. Adigwe, said the items were carefully selected to enable beneficiaries establish or expand their businesses, improve their sources of income and contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of their communities.

According to him, the programme is designed to provide practical support for trained cooperators and skilled individuals, with the broader objective of fostering financial independence, reducing unemployment and creating a new generation of entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

Investigations revealed that the 100 successful beneficiaries emerged from over 700 applicants who participated in a rigorous screening and assessment exercise.

The selection process was structured to ensure transparency and fairness, with only qualified candidates in various vocational fields making the final list.

The beneficiaries were drawn from diverse trades, including tailoring, hairdressing, dry-cleaning, leatherwork, catering and baking, barbering, electrical installation and maintenance, and make-up artistry.

The screening committee was constituted by Pastor Okeze and chaired by the President-General of the Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU) Worldwide, Chief Victor Uchunor, with the support of other respected community leaders and stakeholders.

The forthcoming empowerment programme has generated widespread excitement across Igbuzo and neighbouring communities, with many residents describing it as a major intervention capable of reducing unemployment, stimulating small-scale enterprises and improving the living standards of beneficiaries and their families.

Community leaders have particularly commended Pastor Okeze for facilitating the initiative, noting that it reflects his longstanding commitment to youth empowerment, poverty alleviation and community development.

Observers believe the programme will have a positive ripple effect on the local economy by creating opportunities for wealth generation, encouraging productive engagement among youths and skilled workers, and strengthening grassroots economic activities.

They further noted that the initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between community leaders and government institutions in tackling unemployment and promoting inclusive economic growth at the grassroots level.

Delta at 35: AAC Governorship Candidate Eshor Questions Development, Demands Accountability

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Sam Ugochukwu

As Delta State marks its 35th anniversary, the African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the 2027 election, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has congratulated the people of the state while raising concerns over what he described as the slow pace of development despite the state’s enormous financial resources.

In a statement commemorating the anniversary, Eshor said the occasion should be more than a celebration, urging Deltans to use the milestone as an opportunity to assess the state’s development record, infrastructure growth, and the welfare of its citizens.

According to him, many communities across Delta State continue to face challenges such as poor road networks, inadequate healthcare services, limited access to potable water, unstable electricity supply, unemployment, and shortcomings in the education sector.

Delta State is 35 years old today, yet many residents are still asking the same painful question: Where is the development? Eshor stated.
The AAC flagbearer noted that numerous rural communities remain without basic social amenities, while many public schools still operate under difficult conditions marked by dilapidated infrastructure and inadequate learning facilities.

Our rural communities are still without roads, clean water and stable electricity. Many teachers work under unconducive conditions, and numerous schools are in urgent need of improvement. These are issues that should have been addressed long ago, especially considering the huge allocations received by the state from the Federal Government, estimated at about ₦4.119 trillion since 2023, excluding internally generated revenue and the 13 per cent derivation fund,” he said.

Eshor argued that conversations about development should transcend partisan politics and focus on accountability, transparency, and responsible management of public resources.
“A state blessed with enormous natural and financial resources should not still be struggling with these challenges after 35 years. The issue is not the absence of funds; the bigger question is how those resources have been managed over the years,” he added.

He stressed that the anniversary should encourage both government officials and citizens to evaluate the impact of public spending on communities and ensure that development projects translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

Deltans deserve more than political rhetoric, ceremonies and promises. They deserve visible evidence of their collective wealth through quality infrastructure, better schools, functional hospitals and sustainable economic opportunities,Eshor said.

The AAC candidate also questioned why successive administrations had not fully harnessed Delta State’s maritime and coastal advantages through strategic investments in the blue economy, which he believes holds significant potential for job creation and economic expansion.

For 35 years, Delta State has remained richly endowed with aquatic and maritime resources, yet we have not maximized the opportunities available in the blue economy. This is an area that can create jobs, attract investment and transform our economy, he noted.

While acknowledging that some progress has been recorded since the state’s creation in 1991, Eshor maintained that much more remains to be done to meet the aspirations of the people.

Deltans want to feel the impact of government policies in their daily lives. The true measure of development is not the number of projects announced but the extent to which those projects improve living conditions for ordinary citizens, he stated.

Reaffirming his confidence in the state’s potential, Eshor said Delta possesses the human and natural resources needed to become one of Nigeria’s most prosperous states if properly managed.
He therefore called for greater transparency, accountability and people-centred governance, insisting that the 35th anniversary should serve as a reminder of both the state’s achievements and the responsibilities that lie ahead.

As we celebrate Delta at 35, let this also be a moment of serious reflection. The people deserve answers on how public resources have been utilized and how future investments will translate into meaningful development. The ultimate goal should be to build a Delta where every community feels the impact of governance,” he said.

The anniversary celebrations have reignited conversations among residents about infrastructure, economic opportunities and the need for development that reaches communities across Delta State’s three senatorial districts.

For many Deltans, the 35th anniversary represents not only a celebration of the state’s journey since its creation but also a renewed call for accountability, inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Delta at 35: Enodeh Celebrates State’s Remarkable Journey of Growth, Commends Oborevwori’s Leadership

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Delta State, Hon. Barr. Oyinkuro Brave Enodeh, has joined the Delta State Government and well-meaning Deltans in celebrating the 35th anniversary of the creation of the state, describing the occasion as a remarkable milestone in the state’s journey of growth, development and enduring progress.

‎In a goodwill message marking the anniversary, the Commissioner congratulated the people of Delta State for 35 years of resilience, unity, achievements and collective efforts towards building a stronger and more prosperous state.

‎Hon. Enodeh commended the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, for his impactful and people-oriented leadership, noting that the Governor’s commitment to the MORE Agenda continues to produce positive results across various sectors of the state.‎

‎According to him, the achievements recorded under the present administration are a reflection of the Governor’s vision, dedication and commitment to improving the lives of Deltans and creating opportunities, particularly for young people.

‎The Commissioner said the youth remained a critical component of the state’s development agenda, assuring that the Ministry of Youth Development would continue to support initiatives and programmes that empower young Deltans, promote entrepreneurship, leadership, skills acquisition and meaningful participation in governance and development.

‎He expressed optimism that Delta State would continue to witness greater transformation and prosperity under the leadership of Governor Oborevwori, urging Deltans to remain united and committed to the peace and development of the state.

‎“On this auspicious occasion of the 35th anniversary of Delta State, I join the Government and well-meaning Deltans at home and abroad in celebrating our collective journey of growth, resilience and enduring progress.

‎“We commend His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his impactful leadership and unwavering commitment to the MORE Agenda, which continues to yield remarkable results across the state.

‎“Together, with unity of purpose, we can build on our achievements and create an even brighter future for our people, especially our youths. I am confident that Delta State will continue to prosper under the able leadership of our Governor,” he stated.

‎Hon. Enodeh further called on Deltans to continue to support the administration of Governor Oborevwori and contribute their quota towards sustaining the peace, unity and development for which Delta State is known.

‎He wished the Government and people of Delta State a joyful 35th anniversary celebration, praying for continued peace, progress, prosperity and greater achievements in the years ahead.

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