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NAFDAC Harps on Banned Multi-dose Malaria Suspension

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Hill Nigeria
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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control, NAFDAC, has reminded Nigerians that multi-dose Artemether/Lumefantrine dry powder for oral suspension is no longer approved for registration or use in the country.

The agency made this known in a statement on Friday, 27th February, 2026, reminding the public of an earlier regulatory directive released in 2025.

According to NAFDAC, the decision affects all locally manufactured and imported brands of the multi-dose anti-malaria suspension.

NAFDAC explained that the medicine was discontinued because the drug becomes unstable after it is mixed with water, causing it to lose its effectiveness.

“This regulatory directive was taken due to the instability of the reconstituted formulations, which results in loss of efficacy of the suspension,” the agency said.

The agency noted that studies have shown that when the drug loses its strength, it may no longer treat malaria properly. This, it warned, could lead to worsening illness, treatment failure, serious complications, and, in severe cases, death.

NAFDAC further stated that it no longer accepts new, renewal, or variation applications for multi-dose Artemether/Lumefantrine dry powder for oral suspension.

Manufacturers, it said, are now required to produce the medicine either as dispersible tablets or single-dose powder or granules packed in sachets.

“This directive applies to all manufacturers and importers of multi-dose Artemether/Lumefantrineb dry powder for oral suspension,” the agency added.

NAFDAC advised healthcare workers and members of the public to report any sale of the discontinued products, as well as any suspected substandard or fake medicines.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, A Blessing To Nigerians, Says Oborevwori

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said Nigerians are blessed to have a humble and compassionate First Lady who genuinely cares for the poor and vulnerable in our communities”.

The governor made the assertion on Thursday at the grand homecoming reception held in honour of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the palace of the Olu of Warri.

Addressing a jubilant crowd that thronged the palace grounds as early as 7 a.m., Oborevwori praised Senator Tinubu’s impactful tenure in the Senate, noting that she consistently stood tall in the Red Chambers and invested her time and energy in policy advocacy that positively affected Nigerians.

He joined the Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, in celebrating the First Lady, whom he described as a worthy daughter of the Itsekiri nation with an outstanding record of public service.

Governor Oborevwori said: “We can all attest to how she stood firm during her time in the Senate. Nigerians are blessed to have a humble and compassionate First Lady who genuinely cares for the poor and vulnerable in our communities”.

The governor highlighted that the visit marked Senator Tinubu’s third official visit to Delta State within two years. He recalled her August 2024 visit to flag off the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme for the South-South in Asaba and her March 2025 visit to launch the Free to Shine programme, during which 10,000 professional kits were distributed to midwives across the region as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery.

He particularly commended the First Lady’s respect for traditional institutions, recalling how, during a previous visit, she made it a point to honour royal fathers outside the formal programme schedule.

“That singular act of love and respect made a lot of things easier for me as governor. Even when we were in the opposition, she showed us love. God will continue to bless you,” Oborevwori said.

The governor also lauded Senator Tinubu’s international recognition, referencing her participation at the 4th National Prayer Congress in the United States, where she was publicly acknowledged as a highly respected woman.

“It is fitting to call you a global icon. We are proud of the way you represented Nigeria on the global stage,” he added.

Reaffirming Delta State’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his reforms, Oborevwori who joined his wife, Deaconess Tobore to receive Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the Osubi Airport, assured the First Lady that the state would continue to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda for a better Nigeria.

“Please tell our leader, Mr. President, that Delta State stands firmly with him and his reforms for a better nation. You can always count on our support,” he said.

The governor also used the occasion to outline ongoing infrastructural strides in Warri and its environs, including the completion of the over 20-kilometre Trans-Warri Road with 15 bridges, as well as the completion of the Enerhen flyover built by Julius Berger, with an assurance of further extensions planned towards the Nigerian Ports Authority corridor.

In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed deep emotion at the reception and cultural displays, describing her visit to Warri as a homecoming filled with gratitude and pride.

She thanked the Olu of Warri for the honour bestowed on her, noting that special considerations were made to accommodate her within the traditional framework. She described her Itsekiri heritage as foundational to her values and public life.

Reflecting on national unity, the First Lady pointed to the coincidental alignment of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim fasting period as a sign of God’s call for togetherness, citing Psalm 133 and urging Nigerians to embrace unity beyond ethnic and religious divides.

As part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, Senator Tinubu announced a N50 million empowerment support package for 1,000 women engaged in petty trading in the kingdom and pledged additional support for young men in collaboration with the state government.

Earlier, the Olu of Warri, HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III, described the First Lady’s visit as divinely ordained and symbolic of a new season of unity, healing, and alignment for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

He noted that the honour conferred on her reflected God’s unique plan and praised her humility, grace, and unwavering support for her husband, President Tinubu.

The monarch assured her of the kingdom’s prayers and support while presenting sealed requests on behalf of the people.

The colourful reception drew prominent dignitaries, including Immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, and other top government officials and traditional leaders.

The event was marked by cultural displays, solidarity chants, and an overwhelming show of affection for the First Lady, underscoring what Governor Oborevwori described as the “organic and unwavering support” of the people for purposeful leadership anchored on service and compassion.

Oborevwori Committed ₦8bn to Link Hinterland Communities – Izeze

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has said that the ongoing reconstruction of the Uzere–Asaba–Ase Road and associated bridge works underscores Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to inclusive development across the state.

Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection of the project in Isoko South Local Government Area, Izeze described the initiative as a bold intervention valued at about ₦8 billion, aimed at linking hinterland communities and easing the movement of people and agricultural produce.

“This project confirms to you, to the people here, and to Deltans in particular and indeed to everyone that this Governor is truly an unusual leader,” he said.

“For some of you, this may be your first time visiting this part of Delta State. You can imagine a Governor who is willing to commit about ₦8 billion to ensure that communities in the hinterlands are properly linked together.”

The commissioner who was accompanied by the Functioning Permanent Secretary Engr. Solomon Aghagba and top officials in the Ministry, noted that the decision to undertake the project was informed by the challenges faced by rural dwellers, particularly women who struggle daily to transport farm produce across difficult terrain.

“We have been on ground and you have witnessed women carrying their farm produce, some of them struggling to move goods from one end to another. Without considering the needs of these people, we would not be able to undertake projects of this magnitude,” he stated.

According to Izeze, Governor Oborevwori considers the project essential to his administration’s vision of equitable governance.

“When he says he is a Governor for all, he does not mean a Governor for particular tribes. He means a Governor for every person domiciled within the geographical space called Delta State,” he added.

The project, currently at over 60 per cent completion, involves the reconstruction of failed culverts and rehabilitation of failed sections along the 4.35-kilometre road. It also includes the construction of a new 100-span bridge comprising an 80-metre main span and an additional 20-metre span across swampy terrain.

Izeze disclosed that the contractor had encountered some challenges and requested an on-the-spot assessment by the Ministry to enable it proceed in line with the amended contract provisions.

He said that after reviewing the issues alongside the Acting Permanent Secretary, the Ministry directed the contractor to continue strictly in accordance with the approved design, stressing that there would be no further adjustments.

However, the commissioner raised concerns over alleged attempts by a family in the area to impede the project.

“I would like this noted and reported properly, the Urie family of Uzere who, perhaps out of ignorance, have attempted to impede the progress of this project,” he said, appealing to them to desist in the interest of the community and the state at large.

He urged the family to cooperate with the authorities, noting that the management of the construction firm would engage them, while the Local Government Chairman and Chief Security Officer had been duly informed.

“Delta State is governed by law. We will not degenerate into a state of lawlessness. The Private Property and Public Property Protection Law of Delta State is very clear: no individual, group, or community has the right to impede the development of any property,” Izeze warned, adding that offenders risk a jail term of three years or more, with or without the option of a fine, depending on the court’s discretion.

“There is a new Sheriff in town, and under this Sheriff, anyone who behaves unlawfully will face the consequences of their actions,” he said.

A representative of the contracting firm, LEBTECH Construction Limited, Mr. Roni Karam, expressed optimism that the project would be completed by April 2027.

“As you can see, work is progressing steadily. By the end of April, by the grace of God, the project should be completed,” he said.

A project brief issued by the Ministry of Works’ Department of Highways in Asaba in February 2026 indicates that the original contract sums are ₦4,944,550,766.14 and ₦3,165,562,579.99. The contracts were awarded on January 8, 2025, to LEBTECH Construction Limited.

The scope of work includes scarification and removal of unsuitable materials, sharp sand filling, and the placement of boulders over a 1,300-metre stretch due to swampy terrain, as well as crushed stone layering.

Other components comprise grassing for abutment protection, installation of relief culverts, crushed stone base works, and rehabilitation of failed sections with a 50mm binder course.

So far, all piling works, pile caps, and piers have been completed. Out of 35 longitudinal beams required, 32 have been completed, while one abutment wall has been delivered and casting of the second is pending.

Upon completion, the reconstruction is expected to significantly improve connectivity and address long-standing transportation challenges along the Uzere–Asaba–Ase corridor, boosting economic activities and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Isoko South and adjoining communities.

Delta Police Intercept 1,520 Illicit Drug Packets, Arrest Robbery Suspect in Separate Operations

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on crime, intercepting a large consignment of illicit drugs and arresting a suspected armed robber and cultist in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, disclosed that the operations were part of renewed efforts to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates and combat violent crimes within Delta State.

The breakthrough occurred on February 13, 2026, at about 10:30 p.m., when operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad mounted a routine stop-and-search operation along the Asaba–Agbor Expressway near Northwest Filling Station.

During the exercise, officers intercepted a white J5 bus with registration number 7BGT 60LG. A detailed search of the vehicle uncovered 1,520 packets of Tramadol and Swinol tablets carefully concealed beneath company machines.

The driver, Ebuka Dominion, 30, from Aguta Local Government Area of Anambra State, and the motor boy, Emmanuel Terdule, 30, from Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State, were immediately arrested.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the drugs were intended for distribution within the state. Acting swiftly on information obtained during interrogation, operatives tracked down and arrested Peter Etim Akpan, 47, from Nibiaya Uruan LGA of Akwa Ibom State, alleged to be the owner of the seized consignment.

Police authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the drug syndicate.

In a separate operation on February 22, 2026, at about 3:20 p.m., operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team acted on credible intelligence linking a suspect to a string of robbery incidents in Warri metropolis.

After coordinated surveillance, the team apprehended Collins Darlington, 23, of Ughewughe community in Ughelli South LGA, at the Otor Uweku area of Ughelli town.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly led officers to a bush in the Jedo area of Warri, where a locally made gun concealed in the ground was recovered.

Police said the suspect confessed to being a member of the Aye Confraternity and admitted involvement in several door-to-door robbery operations across Warri. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the gang identified during the investigation.

Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to public safety, CP Aina Adesola emphasized that the Police remain focused on intelligence-driven policing to protect lives and property across Delta State. He urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to support the ongoing fight against crime.

The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on behalf of the Delta State Police Command in Asaba.

Delta Govt Charges Eligible Youths on NDA Admission Application

By
Hill Nigeria
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…As 2026 Admission Portal Opens

The Delta State Government has called on eligible youths across the state to take advantage of the ongoing application process for admission into the 78 Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Director General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. (Barr.) Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, said the State Government is encouraging qualified Deltans to apply to the prestigious military institution as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s representation in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Oghenesivbe noted that the NDA’s academic and military training programmes align with the quality education, wealth creation, and job creation drive encapsulated in the MORE Agenda of the State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.

He disclosed that the online application for the 78 Regular Course is currently open and will close on Thursday, 30th April, 2026. Admission, he said, is open to both male and female candidates of Delta State origin, as well as other qualified members of the public.

Interested applicants are required to apply through the official NDA application portal at www.ndaapplications.net.

Dr. Oghenesivbe explained that prospective candidates must possess a minimum of five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in GCE, SSCE, or NECO. In addition, applicants must register for and sit the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and select the Nigerian Defence Academy as their first choice of institution.

He further stated that only candidates who meet the minimum admission requirements and obtain a UTME score of 210 and above for Engineering courses, or 180 and above for Arts, Social Sciences, and Science courses, will be eligible to print the Screening Test Admission Card and participate in the screening exercise.

The Director General emphasized that successful candidates admitted into the 78 Regular Course will undergo five years of combined military and academic training as Officer Cadets. Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will earn an Honours Degree (B.Sc., B.Eng., or B.A.) in a core discipline and receive a Presidential Commission into the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The Delta State Government therefore urged qualified Deltan youths to seize the opportunity to build rewarding careers in the military while serving the nation with pride, honour, and distinction.

Oborevwori Greets Victor Ochei At 57

By
Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwor has extended warm felicitations to the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, as he marks his 57th birth anniversary on February 25.

Governor Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Ochei as an accomplished politician, astute businessman and committed philanthropist whose contributions to the growth and development of Delta State remain indelible.

Governor Oborevwori noted that Ochei, a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, performed excellently during his tenure.

He added that Ochei’s track record in public service reflects a deep commitment to democratic values, grassroots empowerment and sustainable development.

The Governor also highlighted Ochei’s role as former Executive Director, Cabotage Services at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), where he brought his wealth of experience to bear in strengthening institutional frameworks and advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector.

According to the Governor, Ochei has continued to demonstrate visionary leadership in his current role as President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, contributing to the revitalisation and promotion of tennis game across the country.

He described him as a dependable and influential stakeholder in Delta State politics whose counsel and support remain invaluable.

Governor Oborevwori said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate my dear brother and friend, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, on the occasion of his 57th birth anniversary.

“As you celebrate today, we thank God for your life of service and accomplishments. We pray that His grace will continue to be evident in all your endeavours, granting you good health, wisdom and greater opportunities to serve humanity.”

He wished Ochei many more years of impactful leadership and fulfillment, noting that his legacy of service continues to inspire the next generation of leaders in Delta State and beyond.

CEPEJ-Africa Launches Multi-stakeholder Peacebuilding Dialogue to de-escalate Recurring Tensions in Warri

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Mulade call for peaceful coexistence among Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobos in Warri federal constituency.

A popular Human Rights and advocacy organization in the Niger Delta region, The Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) on Tuesday launched a high-level multi-stakeholder roundtable dialogue among the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities in Delta State with a view to de-escalating the recurring tensions among these ethnic groups and strengthen bonds of peaceful coexistence among the people.

In attendance at the peacebuilding dialogue held at King George Hall, Warri South Local Government Area was a wide spectrum of stakeholders, comprising community leaders, security agencies, market traders, civil society organizations and representatives of the various ethnic nationalities resident across Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State.


Communities represented included Okere Urhobo Kingdom Communities, Itsekiri Communities, Agbarha-Warri Kingdom Communities and Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom communities, among others.

Representatives of the Igbo, Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Kogi-Igala and Isoko communities residence in Delta State were equally present.
The session which focused on “restoring the glory of Warri, rebuilding trust, promoting unity and preventing conflict through sustained engagement” also had in attendance security and civil society leaders, including, SP Musa Yau-Kangiwa, DPO ‘A’ Division, Warri; ASP Hezekiah Okpabi (representing ‘B’ Division, Warri); Prof. Andrew Agboro, Chairman, Delta State Civil Society Organisations; Sylvester Okoh, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Warri Peace Community Support Initiative; and ASP Obehi Idiake, Station Officer, ‘A’ Division, Warri.

Addressing the gathering, the CEPEJ National Coordinator and Ibe-Sorimowei of Ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, PhD noted that “the peace initiative aligns with CEPEJ’s sustained advocacy for durable peace and stability in Warri and neighbouring areas”.

It is imperative to state that in our contemporary society, there are two major triggers of war: conflict investors and conflict beneficiaries. Hence, eliminating conflicts becomes difficult challenge. However, we can do everything possible to de-escalate and make it unattractive.

Mulade stressed the need to consolidate on the existing harmony in Warri Federal Constituency and its environs just as he expressed appreciation to market women and representatives of non-indigenes including the Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Isoko, Kogi and Igala communities for their participation.

He said, “Warri Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo are one. We have lived in peace even before now. Warri is our own, and the essence of peace is to consolidate and strengthen it”.
Mulade lauded the participants for their commitment and called for continued collaboration to ensure a peaceful and inclusive Warri.

The event featured a keynote address by Dr.Austin Onuoha, Adjunct Faculty, National Peace Academy, Abuja, who urged all ethnic groups to “embrace unity and collective responsibility as the foundation for lasting peace in Warri”.

A major highlight of the event was a unity drama display which postulated the importance of coexistence and unity among the various ethnic groups in Warri and the inauguration of a 20-member Warri Indigenes and Residents Peacebuilding Committee (WIRPC) drawn from the various ethnic nationalities including non Indigenes of Warri.
The committee, according to Mulade, is “mandated to deepen stakeholder engagement, de-escalate tensions, sustain dialogue and reinforce peaceful practices across communities”.
The committee will operate for one year within which remarkable progress would have been achieved.

Delta Leaders Honour Nwaoboshi as Amori Reflects on Shared Political Journey

By
Hill Nigeria
-

It was a solemn evening at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, as the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, led government officials and political leaders in paying glowing tributes to former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and founding member of the defunct Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, late Peter Nwaoboshi.
The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, was joined by dignitaries including the Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Arthur Akpowowo, and other political stakeholders.
In a heartfelt tribute, the Chief Adviser to the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ighoyota Amori, described the late Nwaoboshi as a frank and truthful individual whose loyalty and courage defined decades of political partnership.
“I have known Peter for over 30 years. He was frank to a fault, courageous and deeply committed. When Peter believed in a cause, he stood by it to the very end,” Amori said.
He recalled their shared political journey, noting that both men were among the early architects of the PDP in Delta State in 1998. According to him, Nwaoboshi served as Secretary while he served as Publicity Secretary in the formative years that shaped the state’s modern political structure.
“We laid the foundation for today’s Delta. Through that executive, Chief James Ibori emerged governor. Many of us later served in key roles; including Senator Okowa, James Manager, Nkem Okwofu and others. Since then, Peter remained a formidable friend and political ally,” Amori added.
He further described the late senator as generous and dependable, noting that his office often served as a coordinating hub for political engagements. “Peter was truthful, courageous and generous. I wish him eternal rest and peace,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Burial Media and Publicity Committee announced the lineup of activities for the final rites. The events commenced with a valedictory session at the Senate Chambers of the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, where lawmakers honoured the late senator’s legacy.
On Thursday, February 26, 2026, a court valedictory session will hold in recognition of his contributions to the legal profession. This will be followed by a Service of Songs and Vigil Mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Ibusa, by 6:00 p.m.
The Funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026, at the same venue by 12 noon, with interment to follow. A reception will hold at the Anioboshi Primary School Field near the Federal Girls’ College, Ibusa, by 2:00 p.m.
Traditional burial rites, including cultural dances and customary ceremonies, will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at his Isieke family home in Ibusa, in line with community traditions.
The committee has called on political associates, friends, colleagues, and members of the public to participate in the burial activities and honour the legacy of the departed statesman.
Senator Amori had earlier visited the Ibusa residence of the late senator to condole with the bereaved family, praying for strength and comfort for those he left behind.
May his soul rest in peace.

Oborevwori’s Performance Already Settling 2027 Debate in Delta , Says Aniagwu

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Government has said that the scale, spread and impact of projects executed under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori have firmly positioned him ahead of future electoral contests.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, stated that the administration’s visible achievements across the state are speaking louder than campaign rhetoric.

Aniagwu made the remarks during an interview on “Politics Tonight” on TVC, where he outlined what he described as sweeping accomplishments in infrastructure, security, fiscal management and rural development under the Oborevwori administration.

According to him, the governor has continued to push ahead with major infrastructure projects, including road construction, bridge development, expansion of educational and health facilities, and sustained investment in human capital development.

“The election is not stopping him; campaigns are not stopping him in any way. He is progressing very speedily and steadily with the promises he made,” Aniagwu said, noting that projects are being executed across the three senatorial districts.

He identified improved security as one of the administration’s most significant achievements in nearly three years, stressing that the prevailing peace in the state has boosted investor confidence.

“One major achievement is the security of lives and property across Delta. That is why investors are coming in. We have demonstrated that Delta can be peaceful and safe,” he stated.

Providing updates on key projects, Aniagwu said top construction firms, including Julius Berger, are handling several landmark developments.

Beyond the three major bridges in Warri and its environs, the DSC Roundabout Bridge, Enerhen Junction Bridge, PTI Junction Bridge and the slipway at Effurun Roundabout, he disclosed that additional projects have been awarded to the company.

These include works at Uromi Junction in Agbor (Ika South Local Government Area), another at Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli (Ughelli North), and road expansions towards the Nigerian Ports Authority axis.

He added that the DSC Roundabout and Enerhen Junction bridges are already in use, while the PTI Junction Bridge is nearing completion.

The commissioner also highlighted the completion of the 137-kilometre stretch from Koka Junction in Asaba to Ughelli, which has reduced travel time to Warri to about one hour and fifty minutes.

Other ongoing projects, he said, include the over 30-kilometre Ohoror–Bomadi Road, the Aboh–Akarai Road and Bridge in Ndokwa East valued at nearly N30 billion, and the completion of 15 bridges and access roads in riverine communities in Ode Itsekiri.

He noted that reputable firms such as CCECC and Levant Construction are equally executing projects across the state.

Aniagwu explained that the creation of the Ministry of Works (Rural Roads) and the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructure was designed to accelerate development in rural and riverine communities, alongside interventions by DESOPADEC.

On equitable distribution of projects, he revealed that the governor introduced a policy of allocating specific funds to each of the 25 local government areas. In the 2024 budget, N1 billion was earmarked per local government, amounting to N25 billion statewide. This was increased to N2.1 billion per local government in 2025.

For the 2026 fiscal year, he said the allocation was raised to N3 billion per local government, with an additional N4 billion intervention fund per council, bringing the total to N7 billion per local government.

“There is no single state with that kind of specific provision for their local governments,” Aniagwu asserted, adding that these allocations are separate from other sectoral budgetary provisions.

To guarantee quality and durability, he said the governor personally inspects projects while strict compliance with engineering specifications is enforced.

He added that the administration introduced a whistleblower policy, enabling residents to report substandard work directly to the governor through a dedicated WhatsApp line.

“The number is managed by the governor himself. Citizens send information, and action is taken immediately. Contractors are queried where necessary,” he said.

Aniagwu also recalled that the government banned indiscriminate mixing of concrete on tarred roads and pavements to prevent structural damage and ensure longevity.

Beyond road infrastructure, he highlighted efforts in erosion control, flood mitigation and environmental management through the construction of storm drainage systems in urban centres such as Asaba and Warri. Beautification initiatives, tree planting and installation of solar-powered streetlights across major and inner roads have also improved security and aesthetics, he added.

On federal collaboration, Aniagwu commended the Federal Government for ongoing works on the access roads to the Second Niger Bridge and the Benin–Asaba corridor, including concrete pavement construction between the Head Bridge and Summit Junction. He said progress is also evident from the Benin axis towards Sapele.

Addressing the blue economy initiative, he disclosed that the state government has opened access to the River Niger corridor near Government House, Asaba, with a dual carriageway leading to the riverbank as part of broader economic expansion efforts.

Aniagwu maintained that prudent resource management has kept Delta financially stable. “We are solvent not because we receive more than other states, but because we manage our resources judiciously and deliver results,” he said.

He expressed confidence that Governor Oborevwori’s performance would ultimately determine voter decisions, insisting that the administration remains on a strong footing with development visible across the length and breadth of the state.

DELTA 2031: Kpokpogri Urges Strategic Succession Beyond Zoning Politics

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Patrick Ochei

As political conversations gradually shift toward 2031 in Delta State, Comrade Prince Kpokpogri has cautioned stakeholders against what he describes as a potential “succession mistake” driven solely by zoning sentiments rather than competence and leadership capacity.

In a strongly worded position statement, Kpokpogri, Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum and Publisher of Integrity Watchdog Magazine, urged political leaders and citizens to prioritize continuity, experience, and inclusiveness in determining the state’s next leadership trajectory.

At the center of his intervention is the ongoing administration of Sheriff Oborevwori, whose MORE Agenda blueprint, he noted, has laid a foundation for infrastructural expansion, economic inclusion, and social stability across the state, thereby suggesting a consolidation of the MORE Agenda beyond 2031.

According to Kpokpogri, as the governor’s tenure progresses, attention must gradually move from governance implementation to safeguarding continuity beyond 2031.

“The central concern should not merely be zoning,” he emphasized, “but competence, experience, inclusiveness, and proven leadership capacity.”

By the state’s prevailing political understanding, power is expected to rotate to Delta South in 2031. This places potential aspirants from the Isoko and Ijaw ethnic nationalities at the forefront of discussions. However, in as much as power must shift to Delta South in 2031, caution must be applied to get the right choice for the State.

However, Kpokpogri warned against reducing the succession debate to financial muscle, early political positioning, or media visibility.

He stressed that aspirants must demonstrate the ability to manage Delta’s ethnic diversity and secure broad-based acceptability across Delta Central, Delta North, and Delta South.

“The ultimate test must remain the capacity to unite the senatorial districts and govern in the collective interest of all Deltans,” he stated.

Beyond the governorship, Kpokpogri highlighted the importance of strong representation at the National Assembly in shaping Delta’s federal influence ahead of 2027 and 2031, noting that those who must represent the three senatorial zones must be seen as strategic choices in the political scheme of things.

In Delta Central, he referenced the national visibility and legislative assertiveness of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, noting that effective Senate representation could strengthen federal collaboration and political leverage for the state.

In Delta North, he acknowledged the continued political relevance of former governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, describing his experience and federal networks as assets capable of influencing Delta’s long-term political direction. He therefore canvassed the need to have Ifeanyi Okowa go to the National Assembly to represent Delta North in the Senate as a strategic national political game-changer.

Kpokpogri emphasized that his recognition of political actors across party lines was not rooted in personal alliances, but in what he described as objective evaluation of competence and performance.

For Delta South stakeholders, he urged careful assessment of legislative performance, visibility, and advocacy strength when determining future Senate representation, maintaining that anybody that must represent Delta South at the Senate in 2027 must have broad-based acceptability of the people.

Ultimately, he argued, the state’s leadership transition must focus on Industrialization and job creation, Fiscal discipline and institutional strengthening, Equitable distribution of projects, and Sustainable economic expansion.

He maintained that Delta State’s political class must avoid decisions rooted in narrow interests or emotional sentiment.

While expressing optimism about the state’s developmental direction under Governor Oborevwori, Kpokpogri warned that poor succession choices could disrupt current gains.

“Delta’s future must be built on stability, inclusion, and strategic governance,” he concluded, urging party leaders, political stakeholders, and citizens to approach 2031 with maturity and foresight.

As early permutations begin to surface ahead of 2027 and beyond, Kpokpogri’s intervention adds to what is expected to be an evolving debate over competence, zoning, and the future political architecture of Delta State.

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