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Delta University: Give VC Position To Ijaw, Mulade Tells Oborevwori

…Cites Lack of Representation and inclusivity.

A Delta-born Ijaw leader, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has implored the Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to consider and appoint an Ijaw man as the next Vice-Chancellor of the Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.

According to him, the call is driven by concerns over the lack of Ijaw representation in the university leadership, despite the community’s contributions to the institution’s establishment.

He pointed out that no Ijaw individual has held a Vice-Chancellorship or principal officer position in the state’s new universities, and argued that qualified Ijaw candidates with academic integrity, administrative competence, and professionalism are available for the role.

The Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom and Activist expressed the confidence that appointing an Ijaw Vice-Chancellor would address perceived neglect and promote inclusivity in university leadership, giving Ijaw people a sense of belonging in Delta State’s educational scheme.

“Ijaw members were part of the Management Council that facilitated the establishment of these universities and contributed to the development of Southern Delta University.
Qualified Candidate: Ijaw community has several qualified candidate’s, professor with experience, some have served Delta State government and has academic integrity, administrative competence, and professionalism.
We have several qualified professors with impeccable administrative and academic acumen”, he said.

He added that; “It is imperative to call on our dynamic governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to give Ijaw sense of belonging who have been deprived from hosting any of the state universities in spite of her economic contribution. The appointment of a Vice-Chancellor from Ijaw extraction would address the perceived neglect of the Ijaw community and promote representation and inclusivity in university leadership”. the people’s voice, added

Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 Celebrates Prince Matthias Ogbagah on Birthday

The Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 has joined members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, media professionals, associates, and well-wishers to celebrate Comrade Prince (Dr.) Matthias Ogbagah on the occasion of his birthday.

In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Chairman of the Group in the Diaspora and the Chairman Pro Tem in Nigeria, Olorogun Josiah Ntekume, the group paid glowing tributes to Ogbagah, describing him as a consummate professional whose humility, exemplary character, and people-oriented leadership have continued to endear him to colleagues within and outside the media space.

The statement noted that his calm disposition, inclusive leadership style, and strong commitment to mentorship and accountability have significantly strengthened unity and enhanced the relevance of the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel.

The group further commended Comrade Ogbagah for his unwavering advocacy for ethical journalism, press freedom, capacity building, and responsible reportage. It also acknowledged his outstanding contributions through Rainbow Newspaper, both in print and online, applauding his role in promoting balanced, credible, and community-focused journalism.

The Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 concluded by wishing Comrade Prince (Dr.) Matthias Ogbagah many more years of good health, wisdom, and greater accomplishments in service to the media profession and society at large.

Oborevwori Greets Akpowowo At 53

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm congratulations to the Deputy Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, on the occasion of his 53rd birth anniversary.

In a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor joined members of the State Legislature, the people of Ethiope East Local Government Area, associates, and the Akpowowo family in celebrating the lawmaker’s life of service and commitment to public development.

Governor Oborevwori commended Akpowowo for his deep-rooted connection with the grassroots, describing him as a leader distinguished by political sagacity, humility, and strong comradeship with the people of Eku community and Ethiope East at large.

He noted that the Deputy Speaker’s political journey reflects steady growth and dedication, recalling his impactful service as Commissioner for Urban Renewal, and now Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

The Governor praised Akpowowo’s role in providing effective legislative leadership alongside the Speaker, adding that his contributions have positively influenced governance and democratic development in the state.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate our Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, as he marks his 53rd birth anniversary,” the Governor said.

Continuing, he said; “I commend your unwavering commitment to legislative excellence and your consistent use of public office to advance the wellbeing of our people. Your record of service speaks volumes, and your impact on Delta politics is both visible and enduring.

“I wish you continued good health, greater fulfilment, and many more years of fruitful service to Delta State and humanity”.

Oborevwori Celebrates With Festus Keyamo At 56

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has felicitated the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, on the occasion of his 56th birth anniversary, marked on January 21.

The goodwill message was conveyed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Asaba by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon.

Governor Oborevwori described Chief Keyamo as a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, astute public servant, and committed patriot whose career in law and public service has continued to positively impact national development.

He lauded the Aviation Minister for his notable contributions to the growth and repositioning of Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace sector, particularly in strengthening safety standards, enhancing institutional efficiency, and promoting investor confidence.

The Governor further commended Keyamo for his consistency, courage, and professionalism in public office, noting that his leadership has brought renewed focus and visibility to the aviation sector at a critical time in the nation’s development.

Governor Oborevwori also praised the Minister for his unwavering commitment to the growth, unity, and consolidation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and across the country, describing him as a dependable party leader and bridge-builder whose efforts have helped strengthen the party’s structures.

According to the Governor, Chief Keyamo’s political maturity and dedication to democratic ideals have continued to earn him respect within and outside the party.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the good people of Delta State, I congratulate my dear brother and friend, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, on the occasion of his 56th anniversary.

“He is a worthy son of Delta State who has brought pride to our state through his exemplary service to the nation,” Oborevwori said.

The Governor prayed for God’s continued guidance, good health, and wisdom for the Aviation Minister, expressing confidence that Keyamo would continue to render impactful service to Nigeria in the years ahead.

Aniagwu Admonishes Eligible Deltans to Embrace Voter Registration, Advocates Easier CVR Process

Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has called on eligible residents of the state to take full advantage of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, describing voter registration and possession of the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) as both a constitutional right and a civic responsibility.

Aniagwu made the call on Wednesday while speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a sensitisation and advocacy engagement organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in collaboration with the Delta State Government at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

According to the Commissioner, every Nigerian who has attained the age of 18 is legally qualified to register and vote, and in some cases, to be voted for, depending on the elective office.

He stressed that voter registration is fundamental to democratic participation, noting that citizens who fail to vote effectively forfeit the moral right to complain about poor leadership and governance outcomes.

He explained that the sensitisation exercise was aimed at reaching new registrants, particularly young Nigerians who were underage during the last general election, as well as those who were unable to register previously due to various challenges.

Aniagwu said the exercise was necessary to help citizens understand that voting remains the most direct way of influencing governance and leadership selection at all levels, from councillors and local government chairmen to members of the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, and executive offices.

The Commissioner lamented that many Nigerians still underestimate the importance of voter registration, often questioning the need to endure the stress of locating registration centres.

He noted that such attitudes underscore the need for sustained public enlightenment to ensure citizens appreciate the value of being included in the voter register and actively participating in decision-making processes.

Aniagwu also called for continuous engagement with INEC, referencing Section 10 of the Electoral Act, particularly subsections 1, 2 and 3, which mandate continuous voter registration.

He emphasized that voter registration should not be treated as an exercise carried out only in the build-up to elections.

Expressing concern over logistical constraints, he noted that the allocation of only two registration machines to each local government area was inadequate and urged INEC to increase the number of machines to improve accessibility.

He further advocated the deployment of technology to simplify the process, arguing that if Nigerians can carry out complex financial transactions and open bank accounts using mobile phones, voter registration should also be technologically driven.

According to him, the current process is capital-intensive and stressful, often requiring transportation, feeding, and repeated visits to registration centres without guarantee of same-day registration.

He said a technology-driven and community-based registration system would significantly reduce costs, logistical challenges, and voter apathy.

Aniagwu commended INEC for organising the sensitisation programme and expressed optimism that sustained advocacy and stakeholder support would lead to increased voter registration across Delta State.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to supporting initiatives that empower citizens, strengthen democratic participation, and ensure that more Nigerians are registered and ready to vote when elections are conducted.

2027: Do Not Contest Against Oborevwori, Ijaw leader Tells Politicians

Renowned Niger Delta environmental and human rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has comnended Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the successful groundbreaking ceremony for the N59.7bn Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover in Agbor and implored politicians not to contest against the governor in the 2027 Governorship election, saying he has performed extremely well and need to consolidate on the development for the betterment of Deltans.

Speaking to newsmen at Asaba, the state capital after the groundbreaking ceremony for the N59.7bn Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover, Uromi junction, the Ijaw leader and development advocate said that he was impressed with the performance of the Governor, Oborevwori, saying that; “We just witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for yet another flyover in the state. Only recently he did that of Ughelli and today we just witnessed that of Agbor. This is going to strengthen economic activities in this area. He should be commended for coming to our rescue”.

“The Governor has shown that he came prepared for the job of piloting the affairs of our dear state and he has never disappointed us”, he said.

Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State also lauded the Governor for the presentation of 65 SUV cars to Royal Fathers in the state, describing it as a well come development.

“Gentlemen of the press, I want to also use this medium to thank our Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for the recent presentation of 65 brand new SUVs to traditional rulers across the state. He is doing very well and we are proud of him. He values our traditional rulers who are the custodians of our custom”, he said.

“With the unprecedented development we have witnessed in the state, we should encourage him to go for a second term to consolidated on the ongoing people’s oriented projects and it is my appeal to our politicians not to distract him by contest against the governor who has performed extremely well since he became a governor” We are expecting more projects flag-off across the state with a special focus on riverine areas this year. he added.

Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover: Oborevwori Assures Deltans Of Even Devt, Safer Roads

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, flagged off the construction of the N59.7 billion Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area.

At the epochal event of groundbreaking for the project, he described the project as a critical intervention aimed at improving road safety, preserving lives, and boosting economic activities across the state and beyond.

Governor Oborevwori said the flyover was conceived out of the urgent need to address persistent traffic congestion and frequent accidents at the busy Agbor/Uromi Junction, which, he noted, had, over the years, claimed lives and destroyed property.

According to him, the dangerous intersection among vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians on the federal highway, coupled with poor traffic management, made a lasting solution inevitable.

He disclosed that the contract for the design and construction of the flyover had been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, with a completion timeline of 14 months.

The project, he explained, includes a 1.3-kilometre flyover bridge along the Uromi–Agbor Highway, dual carriageways with two lanes in each direction, ramps, roundabouts, concrete drainage systems, kerbs, and solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and sustainability.

Governor Oborevwori, who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, and other top government functionaries for the groundbreaking ceremony, stressed the strategic importance of the corridor, describing it as a major economic and transportation link connecting the the Eastern and Western parts of the Niger Delta, while also serving as a gateway to the North.

“Anyone travelling from Lagos to the East or from the East to the West must pass through this route. Its importance to the national economy cannot be overstated,” he said.

He noted that upon completion, the flyover would significantly enhance mobility, reduce travel time, expand economic opportunities, and safeguard the lives of thousands of Nigerians who ply the route daily.

The governor also highlighted the employment opportunities the project would generate for engineers, artisans, labourers, transporters, food vendors, and others across the construction value chain.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive and balanced development, Oborevwori said the state government had injected N100 billion as a special intervention fund, allocating N4 billion each to the 25 local government areas for infrastructure development, in addition to other sectoral investments.

He added that Ika South Local Government Area was also benefiting from other major projects, including the N15.4 billion contract awarded for 13.3 kilometres of concrete drainage systems and five kilometres of road construction to address flooding and erosion, as well as the planned N12 billion 15-kilometre Okpe–Abavo–Ekuku-Agbor Road.

“As a government, we award contracts strictly on merit and competence. Excellence will always attract further patronage,” the governor assured, expressing confidence that the flyover would be completed within schedule.

Earlier, immediate past Governor of the state Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, described the Agbor/ Uromi Junction Flyover as a monumental and impactful project, commending Governor Oborevwori for sustaining continuity and translating plans into tangible development.

He said the scale and spread of infrastructure projects across the state under the current administration reflected purposeful and people-oriented governance.

Okowa also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the ongoing economic reforms, though initially challenging, were deliberately steering Nigeria toward a more sustainable future.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, described Governor Oborevwori as an audacious and workaholic leader, reminding the Ika Nation of the many infrastructure projects executed by the administration in the area and sued for continued support for the governor in the years ahead.

Mr Frederich Weiser who spoke on behalf of the management and Board of Directors of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for the confidence reposed in it through the award of the project.

The firm pledged to deliver the flyover to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency, and to complete it on schedule with minimal disruption, drawing on its experience with similar projects across the state, including the Ughelli Flyover.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, assured of the commission’s readiness to collaborate with the Delta State Government to complete the Abraka–Obiaruku–Abavo–Agbor Road, describing it as a vital feeder route to the new flyover.

Chairman of Ika South Local Government, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, described the flyover as a “project of destiny,” and thanked Governor Oborevwori for what he called action-driven leadership, including the restoration of electricity to communities that had been without power for over 14 years.

Other speakers, including the member representing Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Nwokolo; APC National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka; the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, HRM Benjamin Ikechukwu, Keagborekuzi I, and President-General of Agbor Community Union, Prof. Onyemaechi Ugboh, commended Governor Oborevwori for his massive infrastructure drive and assured him of their unwavering support.

Delta State Governor To Flag Off Construction Of N59.7 Billion Agbor Flyover Project Jan 19

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, will on Monday, January 19, 2026, perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the N59.7 Billion Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area.

The project is part of his administration’s sustained push to expand critical urban infrastructure across the state.

The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon in a statement, said the ceremony would commence at 11:00 a.m. Sir Ahon urged all invited guests to be seated by 10:00 a.m.

Ahead of the official flag-off, construction activities have already commenced at the project site along the Lagos–Asaba Expressway at Uromi Junction, Agbor.

The contracting firm, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has mobilised to site and began preliminary works, thus underscoring the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to timely execution of the landmark project.

The Uromi Junction Flyover groundbreaking comes a week after the groundbreaking ceremony of the N39.3 billion Otovwodo Junction flyover project in Ughelli.

With the addition of the Uromi Junction Flyover, the total number of flyover projects being executed by the Oborevwori administration now stands at five.

The flyover projects form part of the state government’s broader infrastructure renewal agenda, aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving road safety, and stimulating economic activities across major urban centres in Delta State.

Oborevwori to Perform Groundbreaking for N59.7bn Lagos–Asaba Expressway Flyover on January 19 – Bureau DG

The Ika nation in Delta North Senatorial District will come alive on Monday, January 19, as Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, performs the groundbreaking ceremony for the N59.7 billion Uromi Junction Flyover along the busy Lagos–Asaba Expressway in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area.

The Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. (Barr.) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, noting that the ceremony would mark the commencement of full-scale construction work by the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

According to Oghenesivbe, the project forms part of Governor Oborevwori’s N230 billion mega infrastructure development initiative aimed at easing traffic congestion in major towns and cities across the state.

The Bureau Director General explained that the Uromi Junction axis of the Trunk “A” Lagos–Asaba Expressway has, over the years, posed serious risks to motorists, particularly long-haul vehicles transporting heavy machinery and goods across the country.

He recalled that several articulated vehicles and heavy-duty trucks had previously veered off the road at the junction due to its sloppy and unprotected nature, resulting in multiple accidents and fire outbreaks involving petroleum tankers and other inflammable cargoes. These incidents, he said, led to the loss of lives and destruction of properties worth billions of naira.

He assured residents that the flyover project would significantly improve road safety, provide protected pedestrian walkways, boost commercial and socio-economic activities, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of Agbor and its environs.

Oghenesivbe further noted that the Lagos–Asaba Expressway Flyover is the most expensive single flyover project undertaken so far by the Oborevwori administration. He assured that the governor will spring more surprises in the N1.7 trillion 2026 budget, of which N1.6 trillion has been earmarked for capital projects statewide.

“Governor Oborevwori remains committed to equitable development across the state’s three senatorial districts, in line with his ward-to-ward and statewide campaign promises made during the 2023 general elections,” he said.

The State Government urged invited guests, political leaders, and senior government officials to be seated by 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 19, as the groundbreaking ceremony will commence promptly at 11:00 a.m.

Houston-Based Physician, Austin Orette, Declares Intention to Run for Delta South Senate in 2027

A Houston, Texas-based family medicine physician, Dr. Austin Orette, has formally indicated his intention to contest the 2027 National Assembly election for the Delta South Senatorial District.

Speaking, Orette said his decision to enter the race is driven by a desire to introduce what he described as “a politics of ideas” aimed at addressing long-standing developmental challenges in Nigeria, particularly in Delta South.

He argued that many of the country’s socio-economic problems stem from a failure of leadership to prioritize knowledge, innovation, and citizen empowerment.

“Our politics should be a battle of ideas that will move our people and our nation forward. Great nations utilize ideas to empower the people,” Orette said.

“For every child that is not educated, there is an idea that was not implemented. For every youth that is unemployed, there is an idea that was never implemented.”

The medical practitioner also linked Nigeria’s infrastructural deficits, especially power supply, to what he called a “crisis of ideas in leadership.”

In a separate statement, Orette reassured supporters and political associates who have been mobilizing around his senatorial ambition that he is fully committed to contesting in 2027.

“I am running because I want to use my skills to create opportunities for my people,” he stated.

He emphasized that his campaign would focus on building an “enlightened citizenry” capable of driving development through education, entrepreneurship, and civic participation.

Orette was particularly critical of current political leadership, saying that many officeholders repeatedly apply the same strategies while expecting different outcomes.

“The people will reject the current office holders. They will be made to understand through my pronouncements that the present leaders are doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results,” he said.

He outlined key priority areas of his proposed agenda to include education, healthcare, legal reforms, and active citizenship.

According to him, unemployment in Nigeria is largely a result of underutilization of human capital rather than a lack of talent.

“We have to make people acquire skills for the jobs of tomorrow… We will teach the youth how to be job creators by assisting them to set up businesses,” he added.

Orette disclosed that he plans to hold town hall meetings across Delta South to engage directly with constituents and “reintroduce himself to the people.”

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