Home Blog Page 4

Committee Commends Oborevwori Over Rising Delta Youth Enlistment In Military, Paramilitary Services

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…Elects New Secretary, Unveils Plan To Sustain State Quota

The Delta State Awareness Creation Committee on Youth Enlistment into the Military and Paramilitary Services (SACC) has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what it described as his strong commitment to ensuring that Delta State fully utilises its quota in admissions and recruitment into the nation’s military and paramilitary institutions.

The committee gave the commendation after its first quarterly meeting on Monday.

In a statement jointly signed by the Commissioner for Youth Development and Committee Chairman, Hon. Barrister ThankGod Trakiriowei, and the Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications and Committee Chief Publicist, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, the committee said the governor’s support had significantly increased youth participation in military and paramilitary services.

According to the statement, thousands of youths from the state have secured admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and other military institutions, while many others have been enlisted into the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army through both short service commissions and regular recruitment exercises.

The committee noted that within less than three years of the Oborevwori administration, more qualified youths from Delta State had gained admission into Navy, Air Force, Army and Police colleges across the country.

It added that preparations were underway to further expand opportunities for Delta youths in the 2026 recruitment cycle through intensified awareness campaigns across the three senatorial districts.

The campaigns, the committee said, would involve the mass media, traditional rulers and local government chairmen to encourage eligible youths to take advantage of available recruitment opportunities.

SACC also disclosed that committee members would, in 2026, pay advocacy visits to Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and other senior officers responsible for recruitment and admissions into the military, police and paramilitary services.

The committee said the move was part of efforts to sustain the progress recorded and ensure that Delta State consistently fills its allocated quota during recruitment exercises.

Meanwhile, the committee elected Chief Alfred Orugbo as its substantive secretary following the redeployment of the former secretary. Orugbo, a member of the committee, also serves as Executive Secretary of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.

SACC further stated that its members would continue to monitor recruitment exercises and attend Passing Out Parades to boost the morale of officers and recruits from the state.

The committee also commended the Secretary to the Delta State Government and its Chief Strategist, Dr Kingsley Emu, describing him as a “super technocrat, team player and perfectionist.”

According to the committee, his leadership and strategic guidance have contributed significantly to the successes recorded so far.

It added that increased admissions into the NDA, Police Colleges, military schools and other services align with the job and wealth creation drive captured in Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.

Also in attendance at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, State Directorate of Political and Security Services (DPSS), Mr. T. C. Aguonye; the SACC Secretary, Chief Alfred Origbo; the representative of the Christian community, Rev. Cyril Okonye; and Mr. Emmanuel Egodo, among others.

2027: Who ‘ll Challenge The People’s Sheriff in Delta State

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq.

In politics, performance remains the most persuasive campaign message. Long after campaign slogans fade and political rhetoric subsides, the true measure of leadership lies in the visible transformation of society, roads built, institutions strengthened, livelihoods improved, and hope restored.

In Delta State, the unfolding narrative since May 29, 2023 has increasingly been framed around this principle of performance-driven governance. Nearly three years into the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the state’s development trajectory is being shaped by a deliberate strategy focused on infrastructure expansion, fiscal responsibility, and social investment.

Across the three senatorial districts, the imprint of government projects is gradually redefining the physical and economic landscape. Major road constructions, flyover bridges, institutional infrastructure, and community connectivity projects have begun to alter long-standing development patterns in the state.
This evolving narrative has also begun to shape the political conversation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Governor Oborevwori’s electoral victory in 2023 was itself a defining moment in Delta State politics. Securing 21 out of the state’s 25 local government areas, he overcame formidable political opposition in what many observers initially viewed as an uneven contest. The election pitched a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly against a sitting Deputy Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, an apparent David-and-Goliath scenario in the eyes of political analysts.

Yet, in democratic politics, the ultimate verdict belongs to the electorate. Deltans made their choice decisively, and the mandate has since evolved into a governance agenda anchored on development and fiscal discipline.
Perhaps the most visible dimension of the administration’s work lies in infrastructure renewal.

The ongoing flyover projects at DSC Roundabout, PTI Junction, and Enerhen Junction leading to Marine Gate are set to significantly improve traffic flow and urban mobility within the Warri-Effurun axis. Additional flyovers recently flagged off at Uromi Junction and Otovwodo further signal the administration’s long-term commitment to modern road infrastructure.

Beyond urban development, attention has also shifted toward historically underserved riverine and creek communities. New road networks are gradually opening up these areas, strengthening economic activities for fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators who depend on reliable connectivity.

Educational infrastructure has also witnessed renewed investment. Tertiary institutions and colleges across the three senatorial districts are benefiting from ongoing upgrades designed to improve learning environments and institutional capacity. Sports development forms another pillar of the administration’s agenda. The ongoing reconstruction of the Warri Township Stadium aims to transform the facility into a modern sports complex capable of hosting major national competitions and international sporting events.

Equally significant are the government’s social welfare interventions. Pensioners, who once grappled with prolonged arrears, now enjoy improved financial stability following the settlement of pension liabilities running into several billions of naira. Civil servants receive their salaries consistently, while bursary payments continue to support Delta State students pursuing higher education.

The government has also sustained financial assistance for Delta State indigenes enrolled at the Nigerian Law School, reinforcing its commitment to human capital development and professional advancement.Taken together, these initiatives form the core of the administration’s policy framework known as the MORE Agenda, a governance philosophy that prioritizes inclusive development, economic opportunity, and improved quality of life for citizens.

Beyond policy frameworks and project portfolios, leadership style often shapes public perception. Governor Oborevwori’s political identity has long been rooted in grassroots engagement. Known for his accessibility and pragmatic approach to governance, he has cultivated a reputation as a leader closely connected to the everyday realities of ordinary citizens. These factors have inevitably influenced the evolving political landscape in Delta State.

In recent months, the state has witnessed a significant political realignment following the governor Oborevwori led movement of PDP structures into the All Progressives Congress (APC). The development has altered the dynamics of political competition and raised new questions about the configuration of opposition politics in the state ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Opposition parties, by their nature, remain vital components of democratic systems. They provide scrutiny, policy alternatives, and electoral competition. However, their ability to gain political traction ultimately depends on their organizational strength, credibility, and resonance with voters.

In Delta State today, the political terrain appears increasingly shaped by the performance narrative of the incumbent administration. Infrastructure expansion, social investment programmes, and a broadened political coalition have collectively strengthened the governor’s political standing. As the countdown to the 2027 general elections gradually begins, the contest ahead will likely revolve around a familiar democratic question: continuity versus alternative vision.

For now, many supporters of the Oborevwori administration speak confidently of consolidating what they describe as the next phase of Delta State’s transformation, a period they metaphorically refer to as the continued “Sheriffication” of development across the state. Yet in the end, democracy always returns to a simple truth. Political fortunes are determined not by projections or declarations, but by the judgment of voters.

And as 2027 gubernatorial election approaches, one question continues to linger in the background: Who will challenge the people’s Sheriff in 2027?
***
The writer, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., is the Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications,
Governor’s Office, Asaba.

Political Leaders Hail Chief (Engr.) Hyacinth Enuha On His Birth Anniversary

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Prominent political leaders and stakeholders in Delta State have joined family, friends, and the people of Idumuje-Ugboko to celebrate Chief (Engr.) Hyacinth Enuha, the revered Onowu Gburugburu and Awolo Dike of Idumuje-Ugboko, as he marks his birthday. The leaders described the elder statesman as a symbol of wisdom, integrity, and community leadership whose contributions have continued to inspire both the younger and older generations.
In their congratulatory message, the leaders praised Chief Enuha for his unwavering commitment to the development, unity, and progress of his community and the Anioma nation at large. They noted that his life has been defined by selfless service, humility, and dedication to humanity, qualities that have earned him immense respect across political, traditional, and social circles.
While celebrating the milestone, the leaders offered prayers for continued good health, strength, and many more years of impactful living for the respected community icon. They also commended his enduring legacy of leadership and mentorship, describing him as a true colossus whose influence will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

Oborevwori Speaks On Establishment Of Three New Varsities In Delta

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…As 3,203 Students Graduate In Maiden Convocations

Governor of Delta State and Visitor to Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has justified the decision of the state government to establish three additional state-owned universities, noting that the move has significantly expanded access to higher education for thousands of students.

The governor spoke on Saturday during the maiden convocation ceremony of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, where 416 pioneer graduates were awarded first degrees across the Faculties of Agriculture, Arts, Behavioural Sciences, Computing, Environmental Sciences, Management Sciences and Sciences.

Oborevwori said the establishment of the three universities in 2021 was a deliberate response to the growing number of qualified students who were unable to secure admission into existing institutions due to limited spaces.

He recalled that before the new universities were created, more than 20,000 qualified students seeking admission into universities in Delta State in 2020 could not be admitted because of inadequate capacity in the available in the Delta State University, Abraka.

According to the governor, the impact of the policy is now evident with the successful graduation of the first batch of students from the newly established universities.

He revealed that the maiden graduation cycle of the three universities has produced a total of 3,203 graduates, including 1,206 from the University of Delta, Agbor; 1,231 from Southern Delta University Delta State University, Ozoro; and 416 from Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

Oborevwori said the achievement clearly demonstrates the wisdom of expanding the state’s higher education system in order to provide opportunities for more young people to pursue university education.

The governor described the maiden convocation of Dennis Osadebay University as a historic milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen tertiary education and develop a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and sustainable development.

He noted that when the law establishing the three universities was passed in 2021, he was serving as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and never imagined that he would later return as Visitor to celebrate the graduation of the pioneer students.

Oborevwori also acknowledged the role played by his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who signed the bill establishing the universities into law, while commending the pioneer Vice-Chancellor and staff of Dennis Osadebay University for building a solid academic foundation for the institution from humble beginnings.

The governor highlighted several infrastructure projects executed at the university under his administration’s MORE Agenda to include; the Faculty of Agriculture complex, the Faculty of Environmental Sciences complex, engineering workshops, a 500-seat lecture hall, internal road networks, the Vice-Chancellor’s lodge and the university gatehouse.

He added that the furnishing of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences building had been completed, while work was ongoing at the Faculty of Management Sciences, alongside the construction of a perimeter fence and plans for additional student hostels.

He assured that the state government would construct more student hostels, a sports complex and Faculty of Law building, among other facilities.

Oborevwori reiterated that education remains central to his administration’s development strategy, adding that deliberate investments in funding, improved staff welfare and engagement with labour unions have helped ensure stability in tertiary institutions across the state.

He also disclosed that through the Tertiary Institutions Entrepreneurship Programme, the state government is equipping students with practical skills, mentorship and start-up support to enable them become job creators rather than job seekers.

The governor further encouraged students to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to ease the financial burden of higher education.

Congratulating the graduating students, Oborevwori urged them to remain diligent, innovative and upright as they move into the next phase of their lives, advising them to reject shortcuts and uphold excellence as worthy ambassadors of their university and Delta State.

Highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of the overall best graduating student and valedictorian, Miss Mike-Ogisi Regina Chukwufunannya of the Accounting Department, who graduated with a remarkable CGPA of 4.93.

Governor Oborevwori rewarded the best graduating student with a cash prize of N5 million, while 24 other First Class graduates received N1 million cash each in recognition of their outstanding academic performance.

Earlier in his address, Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ben Oghojafor, described the maiden convocation as a historic turning point for the young institution.

He recalled that when he assumed office as pioneer

Vice Chancellor in April 2021, the campus lacked basic infrastructure, forcing him to operate from temporary spaces. Despite the challenges, he said the university had recorded remarkable growth within a short period.

According to him, the institution admitted about 150 students at inception in 2021, but by the 2022/2023 academic session admissions rose to 1,589, while the 2024/2025 session recorded 4,403 admissions across eight faculties.

Professor Oghojafor disclosed that the university has so far admitted a total of 14,851 students, adding that within five years, the university’s academic staff have produced more than 547 journal publications, 234 conference proceedings and seven books, while establishing academic partnerships with institutions in the United Kingdom and the University of the West Indies in Jamaica.

The Vice-Chancellor added that the university is collaborating with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) to enable students obtain professional certifications alongside their academic degrees, while discussions are ongoing with global technology company Cisco to enhance digital skills training.

Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof Robert Ikomi, described the convocation as a defining milestone in the life of the institution.

He commended the management, staff and students for their commitment to excellence and urged the graduating students to uphold integrity and remain worthy ambassadors of the institution.

In her valedictory speech, Mike-Ogisi commended the Delta State Government and the management of the university for providing a conducive learning environment and assured that the graduands would continue to make the institution proud in their future endeavours.

Of the 416 graduates produced at the maiden convocation ceremony, 25 made First Class honours, 167 graduated with Second Class Upper Division, 185 with Second Class Lower Division, while 39 earned Third Class degrees.

No-Go Area For Opposition Parties in Delta State, Says Gov. Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

… Inaugurates Multiple Roads in Oko, Asaba

…Awards Phase Two Of Oko Road Project For N16.9 Billion

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday declared that Delta has effectively become a no-go area for opposition political parties due to the visible achievements of his administration across the state.

The governor made the assertion during the inauguration of the 4.8-kilometre Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road in Oko Kingdom and other network of roads in Asaba, both in Oshimili South Local Government Area.

Speaking at the ceremony, elated Oborevwori said the extensive infrastructure development under his administration had strengthened public confidence in government and positioned the state for continued political dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said: “When I contested the 2023 election, I won in 21 out of the 25 local government areas even when I was not yet a governor. With the level of development and projects we have delivered in almost three years, Delta State has become a no-go area for other political parties.”

The governor said his APC led administration remained committed to delivering impactful projects that directly improve the lives of the people, adding that the road projects commissioned were strategic in boosting economic activities and improving connectivity between communities.

Oborevwori explained that the Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road would significantly improve transportation for farmers in the area, enabling them to move their produce to markets more efficiently while reducing poverty and enhancing rural livelihoods.

He recalled that in the past, the terrain around Oko was extremely difficult, especially during the rainy season, making it almost impossible for farmers to transport their produce to markets.

According to him, many farmers were forced to travel through neighbouring Anambra State to sell their produce, often disposing them at giveaway prices because of the difficulties involved in transporting them back.

“Today, I am happy that we have completed this road. Farmers can now transport their fresh produce easily to markets, increasing their income and improving their standard of living,” the governor said.

He added that due to the strategic importance of the road, the state government had already approved Phase Two of the project at a cost of ₦16.9 billion, with the contractor, Setraco Nigeria Limited, expected to complete the work within 24 months.

Oborevwori, however, expressed optimism that the contractor would complete the project earlier than scheduled.

The governor also highlighted the significance of the Amaechi Agusi and adjoining roads project in Asaba, noting that the area had previously suffered severe erosion and flooding that made the roads almost impassable.

He said the completed road network and drainage system would now improve transportation, support businesses and address flooding challenges in the area.

Oborevwori noted that Delta State was currently witnessing what he described as “harvest of projects,” with numerous completed and ongoing developments across the state.

He listed several recently commissioned projects to include; the Government Technical College in Omadino and new faculty buildings at the University of Delta, Agbor, Southern Delta University, Ozoro, adding that more projects were lined up for commissioning in the coming weeks.

The governor said his administration’s focus remained on delivering results rather than making empty promises.

“As I always say, we are working. When you come to Delta State, you will see the evidence of what we are doing. Governance is about performance, and the people can see our report card clearly,” he said.

Oborevwori also assured that more empowerment programmes for youths and women would soon be rolled out under the administration’s MORE Agenda, stressing that peace and stability remained key to sustaining development in the state.

He further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic reforms introduced in 2023, noting that the policies had improved the financial capacity of states to undertake more development projects.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, said the newly constructed Oko road was built above the flood level recorded during the devastating 2012 flood to prevent future disruptions.

He noted that residents of the community had already expressed overwhelming appreciation for the project and pledged their continued support ahead of 2027 general elections.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah, disclosed that over 70 kilometres of roads had been completed and ongoing within the capital territory, including about 50 kilometres executed directly by his agency alongside more than 20 kilometres of drainage works.

Ukah also announced that the long-awaited Asagba Road project in Asaba had been approved by the governor and construction would commence soon.

In his remarks, Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili, commended Oborevwori for his sustained commitment to infrastructure development, describing the newly commissioned roads as transformational projects that would boost economic growth and improve livelihoods.

He noted that communities within the area had previously struggled with poor access roads that hindered business activities and the transportation of farm produce.

Speaking on behalf of the host communities, Palace Secretary to the Asagba of Asaba, Chief Patrick Ndili and the Akor of Oko Kingdom, HRH Osita I, expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the project, describing it as a long-awaited intervention that would open up the community for greater development.

They assured the governor of the continued support of the people of Oshimili South ahead of 2027 for his administration and for the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Delta State Governor Appoints Prof. Samuel Aghalino as 2nd Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the appointment of renowned historian, Professor Samuel Ovuete Aghalino, as the second substantive Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

The State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, who presented the appointment letter to Professor Aghalino at his office in Asaba, described the appointment as a significant step in the continued growth of the relatively young university.

He charged the new Vice Chancellor to deploy his vast academic and administrative experience toward advancing research, academic excellence and institutional development.

Professor Tonukari noted that the appointment reflects the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to strengthening higher education in the state and ensuring that state-owned universities are led by scholars with proven competence and global academic exposure.

Professor Aghalino, an indigene of Owhelogbo in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, is currently a Professor of History in the Department of History and International Studies at the University of Ilorin.

He has built an impressive academic career spanning nearly three decades.

A distinguished scholar and respected intellectual, Aghalino previously served as President of the Historical Society of Nigeria, the foremost professional body for historians in the country. During his tenure, he played a key role in promoting historical scholarship, strengthening research collaboration and encouraging greater engagement between historians and public policy institutions.

He began his academic career at the University of Ilorin in the mid-1990s as an Assistant Lecturer and steadily rose through the ranks to become a full Professor of History.

Over the years, he has held several strategic academic and administrative positions within the university, including Head of the Department of History and International Studies and Director of the University of Ilorin Archives and Documentation Centre.

Widely regarded as an authority in Economic and Social History, Professor Aghalino’s research focuses extensively on the political economy of the Niger Delta, particularly the historical impact of oil exploration and its socio-economic implications for the region.

His scholarly contributions have enriched discussions on resource control, environmental justice and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

A prolific scholar, he has authored and co-authored numerous books and articles published in reputable local and international journals.

One of his notable works, Oil Exploitation in the Western Niger Delta: A Cost-Benefit Analysis, 1956–1995, is widely referenced in academic studies examining the historical and economic implications of oil production in the region.

Professor Aghalino has also participated in several international conferences and academic engagements across the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore and Kenya, where he presented research papers and collaborated with scholars on global academic platforms.

His contributions to scholarship have earned him several recognitions, including honours from the Historical Society of Nigeria for his outstanding service to the discipline.

He has also served on numerous academic and public policy bodies, including governing councils of tertiary institutions and advisory committees on education and research.

In addition, he has participated in programme accreditation exercises for the National Universities Commission and served as a resource person for national education bodies.

Stakeholders have described his appointment as a well-deserved recognition of decades of dedication to scholarship, research and academic leadership.

Observers believe his emergence as Vice Chancellor will further strengthen the academic profile of Dennis Osadebay University and position the institution as a centre of excellence in teaching, research and innovation.

For many in Delta State, particularly within the Isoko nation, Professor Aghalino’s appointment represents a moment of pride as the region continues to produce distinguished professionals contributing meaningfully to national development.

With his wealth of academic experience, administrative competence and international exposure,

Professor Aghalino is widely expected to provide visionary leadership that will drive the growth, competitiveness and global relevance of Dennis Osadebay University in the years ahead.

Obi Nduka: A True Reflection of the Ancient Traditions and Culture of Issele-Uku Kingdom — Sir Kifordu

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Patrick Ochei

It was a moment of cultural pride and royal reverence as ESV Sir Peter Isioma Kifordu, a young professional surveyor from the neighbouring community of Issele-Azagba, paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Agbogidi Obi Nduka, the highly revered monarch of the Issele-Uku Kingdom.

The visit, which took place at the royal palace in Issele-Uku, was described by Sir Kifordu as both a personal and cultural engagement, aimed at fostering a cordial relationship with the throne in admiration of the monarch’s remarkable leadership and dedication to the advancement of the kingdom.

Speaking during the visit, Sir Kifordu noted that Obi Nduka represents a true embodiment of the rich traditions and cultural heritage of the Issele-Uku people. He commended the young and dynamic monarch for bringing honour, dignity, and renewed developmental visibility to the kingdom through purposeful leadership, cultural advocacy, and progressive engagement with both the local community and the wider Anioma nation.

According to him, the king’s approach to leadership has inspired many young professionals across Anioma land, particularly those from neighbouring communities, to reconnect with their cultural roots while contributing to the progress of their homeland.

“The reign of His Royal Majesty reflects the very essence of the ancient traditions and noble heritage of Issele-Uku. As a young Anioma professional, I felt a strong desire to visit the palace, pay my respects, and identify with the vision and cultural pride that the Obi has continued to promote,” Sir Kifordu stated.

He further expressed his admiration for the monarch’s commitment to strengthening unity among Anioma communities and promoting initiatives that project the cultural identity and developmental aspirations of the kingdom.

The visit also provided an opportunity for meaningful discussions around community development, youth engagement, and the importance of preserving the customs and values that define the people of Issele-Uku.

Agbogidi Obi Nduka, in his response, appreciated Sir Peter Isioma Kifordu for visiting, while assuring him of his acceptance to always receive him for credible deliberations on way forward for the people of Issei, and by extension the larger Enuani people.

Obi Nduka prayed for the august visitor, and equally admonished him to continue to engender good conducts and moral values that inspire other youths and elevate the fortunes of the community he represents.

It was however noted that such engagements between traditional institutions and emerging professionals from Issei and Anioma axis are essential in sustaining cultural continuity and fostering collaborative efforts toward the progress of Anioma communities.

The visit by Sir Kifordu therefore stands as a symbolic gesture of respect, cultural appreciation, and a renewed commitment by young professionals to align with the vision of traditional leadership in promoting heritage, unity, and sustainable development within the Anioma nation.

Sir Peter Isioma Kifordu was accompanied on the visit by Mr. Okolie Christopher Esenye, Mr. Lucky Kifordu, Chief Collins Chiejine Maha (Uzu Ojogwu), Ogbucha Collins Nwaejido, Mr. Martins Kobimdi Samuel and Mr. Okorwi Anthony, all from Issele-Azagba; while Chief Peter Oduh (Ozoma of Issele-Uku), Chief Egbo Nwadigwe (Chi-Obi of Issele-Uku) and Chief Uche Ngbanwa (Ashi-Obi of Issele-Uku) were with the king in receiving his visitors.

Alleged Child Theft: Hon. Tony Ikubor Lauds DSP Chidi’s Swift Intervention

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Councillor representing Ward 10 (DSIEC Ward 14), Hon. Tony Ikubor, popularly known as Chi Marine Temple, has commended the Nigeria Police Force for their professional handling of a child theft allegation made against him.

Hon. Ikubor gave the commendation while speaking with our reporter in Asaba, where he specifically praised the Officer-in-Charge of Surveillance at the Area Command, Asaba, DSP John Chidi, for his swift and pragmatic intervention in the matter.

According to the councillor, the police carried out a thorough and diligent investigation into the allegation which accused him of sponsoring a couple to steal a child. The claim was reportedly made by three individuals identified as Paul Sunday, Miracle Agaba and Jamilu Abdullahi.

Hon. Ikubor expressed relief and appreciation that the police investigation revealed he had no involvement in the alleged crime, noting that the prompt action of the officers helped clear his name and restore public confidence.

He stated that the allegation, if left unresolved, could have severely damaged his reputation, political career and standing within his community.

The councillor noted that false accusations of such magnitude could create serious mistrust among constituents and tarnish the image of public office holders.

“I am grateful to the police for their professionalism and commitment to justice. The swift investigation has proven my innocence and protected my integrity,” he said.

Hon. Ikubor also commended the Area Commander in Asaba, ACP Alex Udeze, for providing effective leadership and ensuring that officers under his command handled the matter with diligence and fairness.

He emphasized that the role played by the police demonstrated the importance of responsible security agencies in protecting innocent citizens from the consequences of false allegations.

The councillor further urged members of the public to avoid making unfounded accusations that could harm the reputation of others, stressing that due process and proper investigation should always guide the pursuit of justice.

A Road to Hope: How Oborevwori’s Infrastructure Push Is Rewriting the Story of Oko Kingdom

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Esq

For decades, the people of Oko Kingdom knew what it meant to live with distance, not the kind measured in kilometres, but the kind measured in hardship.

Distance between farms and markets, distance between effort and reward, distance between promise and development. Every rainy season, the earth itself seemed to rise against them. The roads connecting the communities of Amakom, Obiokpu, and Anala to the rest of the state would dissolve into thick mud and deep gullies. Vehicles got stuck. Motorcycles skidded dangerously.

The farmers in the community carrying the fruits of months of labour often had to watch helplessly as their produce was spoiled before it could reach the market. For many, the only option was a painful detour through neighboring Anambra State, a journey that was longer, costlier, and often humiliating. After enduring the exhausting trip, farmers were frequently forced to sell their produce at giveaway prices just to avoid taking them back home.

It was a cycle that trapped entire families in poverty. But on Friday, 6th March 2026, that story began to change, the day the road finally came. The quiet agrarian communities of Oko Kingdom in Oshimili South Local Government Area came alive with celebration as the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, arrived to commission the 4.8-kilometre Oko–Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road.

It was more than a ceremony. It was a moment many residents had waited years to witness. Community elders stood proudly by the roadside. Women in colourful wrappers sang and danced. Young people lined the route, capturing the moment on their phones. For them, the newly paved road stretching through their communities was not just infrastructure, it was proof that their voices had finally been heard.

When a road changes everything for farmers in Oko, the impact of the new road is immediate and deeply personal.

What used to be a frustrating journey through muddy paths is now a smooth drive connecting their farms to nearby markets and urban centres. Cassava, yams, vegetables, and palm produce once difficult to transport can now move quickly and safely.

The difference is enormous. Instead of watching profits disappear into transportation costs and spoilage, farmers can now reach markets faster, negotiate better prices, and expand their businesses. Traders from neighbouring towns who once avoided the area due to poor access are already beginning to return. A road that once symbolized neglect has become a corridor of opportunity.

Local leaders say the project will do more than move goods, it will transform livelihoods. Children will find it easier to get to school, patients will reach healthcare facilities faster, while businesses will begin to emerge along the new corridor. In rural communities, such changes can alter the economic future of an entire generation.

The Oko road project is part of a broader infrastructure agenda being driven across the state by Governor Oborevwori’s administration. Road networks, bridges, and public institutions are being expanded with the aim of connecting communities that have long been left on the margins of development.

Oborevwori administration has also commissioned major educational infrastructure, including projects at Government Technical College Omadino, new faculty buildings at University of Delta Agbor, and development works at Southern Delta University Ozoro.

Across Delta, the emphasis has been on projects that directly improve everyday life, roads that open markets, schools that prepare young people for the future, and infrastructure that supports economic growth. Even before the applause from Friday’s commissioning fades, plans are already moving forward for the next stage. Recognizing the road’s strategic importance, governor Oborevwori has approved Phase Two of the project, valued at ₦16.9 billion. The construction will be handled by Setraco Nigeria Limited, with completion expected within 24 months.

The phase two project will further strengthen the road network, deepen economic activity in the area, and improve connections between surrounding communities. For residents of Oko Kingdom, it is a sign that development is not stopping, it is accelerating. As the commissioning ceremony came to an end, the newly completed road stretched quietly through the heart of the communities it now serves. Cars moved smoothly along its surface. Children played by the roadside. Traders discussed new opportunities the road might bring.

For the people of Oko Kingdom, the road represents something deeper than concrete and asphalt. It represents dignity, it represents access, it represents hope. And perhaps most importantly, it represents the beginning of a new story, one where opportunity is no longer miles away, but right at their doorstep.

With the 2027 elections a few months away, Governor Oborevwori appears poised to consolidate political support across Delta State, while strengthening momentum for the All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, across the three senatorial districts.

***
The writer, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Esq, is the Director General of Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Governor’s Office Asaba.

NYSC DG Speaks On Next Registration and Orientation Camp Activities

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Oluseye Nafiu has provided an update on the next batch of registration and upcoming orientation camp activities for prospective corps members.

Speaking during a briefing with officials and stakeholders, the NYSC chief said preparations are underway to ensure a smooth registration process and successful orientation programme for the next batch of graduates scheduled to participate in the national service scheme.

The Director-General urged prospective corps members to regularly check the NYSC portal for updates regarding registration dates, mobilization procedures, and documentation requirements.

He also advised applicants to ensure that all necessary information submitted during the online registration is accurate to avoid complications during camp admission.

According to the NYSC leadership, orientation camps across the country are being prepared to accommodate incoming corps members, with arrangements in place to ensure proper welfare, security, and training during the three-week programme.

The orientation camp marks the first stage of the mandatory one-year national service, where participants undergo drills, lectures, and community development training before being posted to their respective places of primary assignment.

The NYSC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the scheme while ensuring that the next batch of corps members experiences a well-organized and productive orientation programme.

1...345...205Page 4 of 205

MOST READ

LATEST STORIES

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© 2022 - The Hill Nigeria