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66TH INDEPENDENCE: Oborevwori Urges Nigerians To Stay On Course

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and united, saying sustained commitment to the current reform efforts is essential to achieving lasting development and prosperity.

Oborevwori, in his Independence Day message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said; “there is hope on the horizon and brighter days ahead.”

He urged Deltans to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and his administration’s MORE Agenda, saying continuity and stability in governance were critical to delivering sustainable development.

The governor said his administration was complementing federal efforts through massive infrastructure projects, investment in renewable energy, job creation and measures designed to attract foreign direct investment to Delta.

Saying “there is light at the end of the tunnel,” Oborevwori told citizens to remain patient, resilient and committed to the Nigerian project.

Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and pledged to continue implementing policies and programmes that would improve living standards of the people and expand opportunities across the state.

He congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain hopeful and united as the country works towards a more prosperous future.

No Room For Crime, Criminality In Delta – Oborevwori

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Hill Nigeria
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that there is no room for crime and criminality in the state, warning criminals and those who may seek to arm individuals for political violence that they will face the full weight of the law.

Oborevwori stated this on Wednesday when he received the newly deployed Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel Erale, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba.

The governor said security remained a central pillar of his administration’s MORE Agenda, stressing that peace and safety were essential for development, investment, economic growth and the wellbeing of citizens.

He said his administration had adopted a firm approach to crime fighting, irrespective of the status or political affiliation of offenders, adding that nobody would be shielded from prosecution for committing crime.

According to him, “If you are my brother, if you are my friend, if you commit, you go for it. Nobody is above the law.”

Oborevwori urged the new police commissioner to sustain an intelligence-led and coordinated approach to policing, with stronger surveillance of communities, highways and waterways, particularly in the riverine areas.

He called for deeper collaboration between the police, other security agencies, traditional rulers, youth leaders, vigilante groups and other stakeholders, saying community-based policing would help strengthen trust and improve intelligence gathering.

The governor also warned against the proliferation of firearms, particularly the use of rifles by civilians, saying security agencies must intensify efforts to recover illegal arms and arrest persons found in possession of unauthorised weapons.

He said the state government would continue to support the police and other security agencies through the Delta State Security Trust Fund, including the provision of operational vehicles and other logistics.

He assured the police commissioner that the state government would continue to provide the necessary support to sustain the prevailing peace in Delta, even during the electioneering period.

Earlier, CP Erale assured the governor and people of Delta State of his commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.

He said he would be guided by professionalism and discipline, promising to replicate those values throughout the command.

The commissioner said he would rejig the existing security architecture in the state and build on the achievements of his predecessors to make Delta safer.

Nigeria at 66: Mulade Calls for Unity, Good Governance, Infrastructure Renewal

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Hill Nigeria
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As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has called on Nigerians and leaders across the country to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence and renew their commitment to unity, peace, good governance and national development.
Mulade, the Ibe-Sorimowei of the Ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) and National Treasurer of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), made the call in his Independence Day message to Nigerians.
He congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary, commending the resilience of citizens and the efforts that have kept the country together despite its ethnic, religious, political and socio-economic diversities.
According to him, Nigeria’s 66 years of nationhood provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s achievements and challenges, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, economy, sports, energy, industry, transportation and the development of socio-political institutions.
He urged Nigerians to also look ahead and consider the future of the country’s young population, stressing the need for greater investment in their education, skills and overall development.
Mulade expressed concern over the deterioration of infrastructure and the migration of young Nigerians in search of better opportunities, attributing the situation to a combination of socio-economic and political challenges, including poor leadership, economic hardship, insecurity and corruption.
He called on leaders and citizens to work collectively towards reducing corruption and political bitterness, while strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance.
He also advocated sustained investment in infrastructure, quality and affordable healthcare, as well as measures to guarantee the security of lives and property.
2027 Agenda for Warri Federal Constituency
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Mulade also outlined what he described as his development agenda for the Warri Federal Constituency, where he is seeking election to the House of Representatives on the platform of the National Democratic Party (NDP).
He said his proposed agenda would focus on major economic and infrastructural projects aimed at addressing developmental challenges in the constituency.
Mulade identified peace, unity and collaboration among the major ethnic groups in the constituency, including the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo, as important factors for sustainable development.
He described Warri Federal Constituency as an area with a long history and abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gas, but noted that ethnic and communal conflicts had affected the ability of the area to fully harness its opportunities.
He said his aspiration was to contribute to restoring peace and unity in the constituency and promote development that would benefit its people.
Mulade further stated that elections should go beyond political parties, stressing the importance of individuals with commitment, loyalty, discipline and the capacity to work for the development of their communities.
He urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s past while collectively working towards a more prosperous future.
“Long live the Warri Federal Constituency. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

Ogbueshi Esealuka Celebrates Asagba’s Second Anniversary, Commenda Developmental Strides In Asaba

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Hill Nigeria
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Ogbueshi Chinedu Richard Esealuka, a prominent Asaba chief and former Ochendo of his quarter, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, FNIALS, LLD, The 14th Asagba of Asaba, on the second anniversary of his coronation on 2 October 2026. He described the reign as purposeful, unifying and development-conscious, and said the anniversary was a fitting moment for reflection on the direction of the traditional institution.

In a congratulatory message, Esealuka said two years may seem brief in the life of a throne, yet what matters is what has been achieved, the course that has been set, and the confidence inspired among the people. He added that Asaba requires an institution faithful to its history and customs, yet responsive to present realities, and that the Asagba has shown that understanding.

He commended efforts to strengthen the institutional and physical foundations of the kingdom. Among projects linked to the anniversary are the development of the permanent palace grounds, a 1,000-capacity event centre, the Asaba Community Smart School at Obiajé/Akwuose, a cemetery, the renovation and beautification of Ogbeke Square, and the beautification of Kainebisi Roundabout.

These works, he said, go beyond ceremony. The palace is the institutional home of the Asagba and a rallying point for the people; the event centre, school, cemetery and improved public spaces have practical value. In his view, the reign has sought to turn traditional leadership into visible community benefit.

Esealuka praised the monarch for encouraging Asaba sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora to contribute to their ancestral community. No ruler, he noted, can develop a kingdom alone. What is essential is the capacity to gather the people, build confidence, and give each person a place in the progress of Asaba.

He also welcomed the broadening of participation in traditional governance, especially the greater recognition and elevation of women. The role of women in Asaba’s development, he said, cannot be overemphasised, and any effort that grants them fuller standing is an investment in the kingdom’s future.

He commended the Asagba’s engagement with institutions whose work affects the welfare of Asaba, and the consistent use of the throne to advocate infrastructure, services and development. Leadership, he observed, must extend beyond the palace: the Asagba must speak for the people, engage government and agencies, draw attention to community needs, and call the sons and daughters of Asaba home. He cited, among other examples, the 2025 engagement with the Niger Delta Development Commission on flood-related and other critical challenges.

Esealuka further described the planned Asaba Massacre Memorial activities as a solemn duty to history. A people who forget their past, he said, lose part of their identity. The Massacre is not a distant entry in a book; it is part of the story of the people, and its memory is owed both to those who died and to generations yet unborn.

The anniversary, he concluded, should be more than a celebration of the monarch. It should be an occasion to mark what has been done, to identify what remains, and to work together for a stronger, more prosperous and more united Asaba. He urged title holders, community leaders, professionals, business people and the young to support the institution and give their quota, holding that common identity as Asaba people must rise above individual differences. The stool belongs to all, and its success should be the success of Asaba.

Wishing His Royal Majesty many more years of peaceful and fruitful reign, Esealuka prayed for wisdom, health and strength for the Asagba, that the years ahead may bring greater accomplishment, and that history may remember this reign as one that advanced the progress, unity and dignity of Ani Ahaba.

Penawou Felicitates with Deltans, Nigerians on Independence Anniversary

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Kelly Penawou, has felicitated with Deltans and Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Penawou, in a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, described Nigeria’s 66 years of independence as a significant milestone and an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey while looking forward to a brighter future.
He congratulated Deltans for their resilience, peaceful disposition and contributions to the growth and development of Delta State and Nigeria.
The Commissioner called on Nigerians to continue to promote unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, noting that the progress of the country requires the collective efforts of citizens, leaders and institutions at all levels.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Local Government Affairs to strengthening grassroots administration and supporting initiatives that improve the wellbeing of people in local communities across Delta State.
According to him, effective governance at the grassroots remains essential to achieving sustainable development and ensuring that the benefits of government reach the people.
Penawou urged Deltans, particularly youths, to remain hopeful and contribute positively to the development of their communities and the nation.
He expressed confidence that with patriotism, cooperation and a shared commitment to national development, Nigeria would continue to make progress.
“On this 66th Independence Anniversary, I warmly congratulate all Deltans and Nigerians. May our nation continue to enjoy peace, unity and progress, and may we all remain committed to building a better Nigeria for present and future generations,” Penawou

Nigeria @66: Local Govt Commission Boss, Otirhue Urges Nigerians to Uphold Patriotism

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Chairman of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Pastor Joseph Otirhue, has congratulated Deltans and Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain committed to peace, unity and national development.
Otirhue, in a goodwill message marking the anniversary, described the occasion as an important moment for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence and renew their commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous country.
He commended Nigerians for their resilience, sacrifices and contributions to the growth of the nation, noting that despite the challenges confronting the country, the spirit of patriotism and hope remains strong among the people.
The Chairman also felicitated with the people of Delta State, praising their contributions to the development of the state and the sustenance of peaceful coexistence across the various communities.
He called on Deltans and Nigerians to embrace unity, tolerance and mutual respect, stressing that the progress of the nation requires the collective efforts of citizens at all levels.
According to him, local government remains a critical level of governance in delivering development to the grassroots, and the commitment of public servants to effective service delivery is essential to achieving meaningful progress.
Otirhue reaffirmed the commitment of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission to supporting professionalism, efficiency and effective service delivery in the state’s local government system.
He urged citizens, particularly the younger generation, to remain hopeful and contribute positively to the growth and development of Nigeria.
The Chairman wished Deltans and Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Independence Day celebration, expressing optimism for a more united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
“As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, let us continue to uphold the values of unity, peace, patriotism and service to humanity. I warmly congratulate all Deltans and Nigerians on this historic occasion and pray for continued peace and prosperity in our nation,” Otirhue said.

Independence Day: Angele Felicitates Deltans, Nigerians, Reaffirms Commitment to Development

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, has congratulated Deltans and Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, calling for renewed patriotism, unity and collective commitment to national development.
In a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, Angele commended Nigerians for their resilience, sacrifices and contributions to the growth and development of the nation over the years.
He said the 66th anniversary provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the journey of Nigeria since independence while renewing their commitment to peace, unity, progress and good governance.
The Commissioner congratulated the people of Delta State for their steadfastness and contributions to the development of the state and the country at large.
He noted that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remained committed to improving the lives of Deltans through people-oriented policies and projects under the MORE Agenda, including initiatives aimed at enhancing housing and infrastructure.
Angele urged Deltans and Nigerians to continue to support initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence, economic growth and sustainable development.
He called on citizens, particularly the younger generation, to remain hopeful and actively contribute their talents, ideas and energy towards building a better Nigeria.
According to him, the strength of Nigeria lies in the unity, resilience and determination of its people.
The Commissioner wished Deltans and Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Independence Day celebration, expressing optimism that the country would continue to make progress towards a more prosperous future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us renew our faith in Nigeria and continue to work together for peace, unity and sustainable development. I congratulate all Deltans and Nigerians on this historic occasion,” Angele said.

Onyeme Mourns Late APC Leader, Suspends Political Activities In Ndokwa West

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Hill Nigeria
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The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chief Tony Onah, a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the state.
Chief Onah reportedly died on Monday, September 28, 2026, after a brief illness.
In a condolence message issued by his Executive Assistant on Political Matters, Chief Ngbabego Godday, the Deputy Governor described the deceased’s death as a painful and irreparable loss to his immediate family, political associates, friends and the entire political family in Ndokwa West.
Onyeme described Chief Onah as a dedicated party man whose calm disposition, humility, loyalty and commitment to the growth of the party earned him the respect and affection of his colleagues and associates.
He said the late APC leader’s contributions to the political family would remain memorable, noting that his death had created a profound sense of loss among those who knew and worked with him.
According to the Deputy Governor, although Chief Onah had been laid to rest in accordance with his wishes, members of his political family within and outside Ndokwa West would, at the appropriate time, come together to honour his memory and pay their final respects to the departed party loyalist.
Onyeme extended his condolences to the immediate family and other mourners, praying to God to grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
As a mark of respect for the deceased and in recognition of his contributions to the political family, the Deputy Governor directed the suspension of all political activities in Ndokwa West Local Government Area for one week.
The directive, he said, was intended to provide an opportunity for party members and political associates to mourn the late Chief Onah and reflect on his service and commitment to the political family.
Onyeme prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family and loved ones the grace to bear the loss.

Oshimili South APC Media Team Pays Courtesy Visit to Bridget Anyafulu

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Oshimili South APC Media Team

The Media Team of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Comrade Austine Odiachi, paid a courtesy visit to the Delta State House of Assembly member representing Oshimili South Constituency, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu. The visit was to officially introduce the team to the Honourable Member, who is also the APC House of Assembly candidate for Oshimili South Constituency.

While introducing the team, Comrade Austine Odiachi explained that the team was constituted by the Oshimili South APC Chairman, Ogbueshi Dada Okolo, who charged the group to champion, promote and coordinate all the Oshimili South APC Media activities, promoting and campaigning for all APC candidates in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, who is known for her love for charity work, received the team with great pleasure as she took her time to itemize some concepts that have become very necessary, especially in reorienting our people to understand the workings of governance and how government policies are implemented.

Hon. Bridget charged the team to prioritize research processes so as to disseminate accurate and authentic information, especially as it relates to government policies and programmes. She emphasized that the people need to be adequately informed about the facts and workings of government.

She explained that we need a system that works, where every citizen must rise to promote characters that abide by the rules. According to her, we all need to partner with government, embrace its policies, and see reasons to align with its projects. We need to protect the present and future of this country by being law-abiding and promoting the national interest.

Oborevwori Boosts Healthcare With MRI, CT Scanners, Employs 700 Health Workers — Ahon

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta State Government has intensified investment in healthcare with the acquisition of advanced medical equipment, including MRI machines, CT scanners and 4D ultrasound machines, alongside the employment of over 700 health workers to strengthen healthcare delivery across the state.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Sir Festus Ahon, disclosed this during an interview on Independent Radio FM 92.3, Benin, where he outlined the administration’s achievements in the health sector beyond its ongoing investments in roads, bridges and other infrastructure.

Responding to questions about the government’s achievements in healthcare, Ahon said Governor Oborevwori had made substantial investments in modern diagnostic equipment to reduce the financial burden on residents seeking specialised medical treatment outside Delta State and abroad.

“First of all, let me salute Elder for always trying to whip us into line. The truth is that beyond roads and bridges, we are doing a lot,” he said.

“Before now, our people used to spend over N100 billion annually seeking treatment outside Delta State and even abroad. My Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, said this must stop.

“For the first time in the history of Delta State, we now have three MRI machines of 1.5 Tesla helium-free technology, one in each senatorial district. We have one in Asaba Specialist Hospital, one in Central Hospital, Warri, and another in our teaching hospital in Oghara, and they are all functioning.”

Ahon disclosed that the administration had also provided three CT scan machines and other modern radiology and laboratory equipment to strengthen specialist healthcare delivery in major hospitals across the state.

He said the government had further procured 8 dialysis machines, three in Asaba, three in Warri and two in Oghara, our teaching hospital. We have also procured 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners, which were distributed to general hospitals across the 25 local government areas to bring advanced diagnostic services closer to residents.

“We also have 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners distributed across our general hospitals in the state. You know we have 25 local government areas, so we distributed them to the general hospitals in each of the local governments.

“With these facilities available for their use, our people no longer need to travel abroad for specialised diagnosis that can now be carried out here in Delta State,” he stated.

On access to affordable healthcare, Ahon said the Oborevwori administration had sustained free medical treatment for children between zero and five years while expanding the state’s contributory health insurance scheme to accommodate more residents, particularly vulnerable groups.

According to him, more than three million people have been enrolled in the scheme, including 10,000 widows who also receive monthly stipends of N15,000 from the state government.

“We have free healthcare for children from zero to five years. Apart from that, we also have a health insurance scheme. Today, we have over three million health enrollees, including 10,000 widows who are receiving free healthcare.

“These widows are also collecting monthly stipends of N15,000 from the state government to support their welfare,” he said.

The Chief Press Secretary further disclosed that Governor Oborevwori had approved the employment of over 700 healthcare workers to address manpower shortages and improve service delivery in public health institutions.

He said the governor had also introduced a standing directive for the immediate replacement of doctors and nurses who leave the state health service, particularly those relocating abroad in search of better opportunities.

“Because of his commitment to the health sector, the governor recently employed over 700 health workers. Apart from that, he equally gave a standing order that if, for any reason, any doctor or nurse ‘japa’, he or she should be replaced immediately. There is no room for a vacuum,” Ahon declared.

He added that the administration had introduced special tax-free monthly allowances of N200,000 for doctors and N100,000 for health officers as part of measures to motivate healthcare professionals and discourage the migration of medical personnel.

“To encourage our doctors, the governor introduced more special allowances: N200,000 tax-free monthly for doctors and N100,000 tax-free monthly for health officers.

“This is why you are seeing our doctors here. They are no longer ‘japaing’ because we have good incentives for them,” he said.

Speaking further on manpower development, Ahon said the state government had established a new College of Health Technology at Ovrode in Isoko North Local Government Area to train middle-level healthcare professionals.

He also identified the establishment of a College of Medicine at Southern Delta University, Ozoro, as another major intervention aimed at expanding medical education and strengthening the state’s healthcare workforce.

“We have also established a brand-new College of Health Technology at Ovrode, Isoko North, to train middle-level health workers. We also have the College of Medicine built at Southern Delta University, Ozoro.

“These are part of the state government’s efforts in the health sector,” he added.

Ahon maintained that the various interventions were in line with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which prioritises improved healthcare infrastructure, affordable medical services and the development of skilled healthcare personnel across Delta State.

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