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Ned Nwoko Champions Rural ICT Development With New Centre at Idumuje-Ugboko School

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Hill Nigeria
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By Juliet Ugah

The ongoing ICT Centre at Comprehensive Secondary School, Idumuje-Ugboko, is already taking shape beautifully.

This is the indefatigable effort of Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko, who understands the importance of giving rural communities access to ICT and the vast opportunities it holds.

About seventy percent of Nigerians live in rural communities, and that’s why projects like this are so important.

Our community schools deserve the same access and opportunities as schools in the cities.

The importance of ICT knowledge, especially at a young or teenage age, cannot be overemphasized. While empowerment programs for farmers, market women, and young entrepreneurs are commendable, creating opportunities for our youngsters is equally vital. Thankfully, we have a Senator who is intentional about covering all fronts of empowerment.

Michael Okonji Promises Constituents of Effective Representation

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Hill Nigeria
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…As he commissions Umuezei Town Hall

The Leader of Oshimili South Legislative arm, Rt. Hon. Michael Okonji has assured the people of Ezenei of effective representation in line with the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.

Okonji gave the assurance at the inauguration of the newly renovated Umuezei Town Hall in Asaba and empowerment of 50 petty traders at Ezenei, Asaba.

He said that the edifice, built immediately after the civil war, has for decades stood as a symbol of resilience, unity, and governance for the people of Ezenei.

Hon. Okonji revealed that the Umuezei Town Hall had at one time served the state government as a Court, but beyond that, it has always been a communal center where the voice of the people found expression.

According to him, the hall fell into disrepair and after 70 years he decided to renovate it other laudable projects in his ward.

In his address the Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government council, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili described Hon. Okonji as a visionary leader who was poised to give his people the best of representation

Ezenyili charged the people of Oshimili South to ensure that the developmental trajectory the local government is experiencing was sustained by electing credible persons.

The Okpala-Uku of Ezenei Community, Ogbueshi Emmanuel Ebenuwa and others spoke on the significance of the renovated Town Hall and also offered prayers for Hon. Okonji.

The event featured the official commissioning of the Ezenei Community Town Hall as well as presentation of cash to petty traders by Hon. Okonji to assist them in their various businesses.

Oyibode Pledges Peace and Development In Udu

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Hill Nigeria
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… Showcases First Year Achievement

The Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, has pledged continuous  dedication to peace, infrastructure, and people-centered governance.

Oyibode made this known while receiving  the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State governor on Community Newspaper, Prince Joseph Oromonokpaye and his team at the council.

Oyibode expressed delight at the opportunity for his guests to “see by themselves” the progress recorded in the council within his first year in office.

The council Chairman and former Commissioner for Oil and Gas in the state, said his administration inherited a community riddled with crises, ranging from inter-communal disputes to insecurity and infrastructural decay. According to him, his first action was to “hand over Udu to God” by instituting daily prayers at the council secretariat, which he credited for the peace the area now enjoys.

On infrastructure, Oyibode disclosed that his administration has completed a befitting executive chairman’s office, procured official vehicles for key council officers, rehabilitated toilets and office equipment, and is constructing a government residential quarters to ensure future Chairmen reside within Udu.

He also unveiled plans for a government settlement on surveyed council land, which will include staff quarters, an NYSC lodge, and other facilities.

In the area of security, Oyibode announced the ongoing construction of a modern divisional police headquarters with residential quarters for officers, noting that Udu had been the only local government headquarters in state without such a facility.

On environmental sustainability, Oyibode said the council has undertaken desilting of over three kilometers of drainage channels, opened canals to mitigate flooding, and enforced sanitation laws to ensure cleaner markets and streets.

He stressed that illegal structures have been removed while shop owners and residents are now compelled to maintain their surroundings.

The Chairman also emphasized his commitment to tackling social vices, particularly drug abuse, through campaigns and collaboration with regulatory agencies and pharmacists’ associations.

He further hinted at moves to regulate the rising cost of building materials, especially sand, to protect residents from exploitation.

Oyibode, who recalled how he was unanimously adopted by all political parties during the last local government election, described himself as a “servant leader” committed to humility and inclusiveness.

He pledged to carry elders, civil servants, and community leaders along in all decision-making processes.

He revealed that his efforts have already attracted recognition, including an award from the National Youth Council of Nigeria as the “Most Productive Local Government in Nigeria.”

“Udu is now peaceful, investors can come, and our people can sleep with their eyes closed,” Oyibode assured. “I am only challenged to do more in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda of peace, reform, and meaningful development for all Deltans.”

Osilonya Showcases 30 Projects, Sets Agricultural Agenda for Ndokwa East

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Hill Nigeria
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The Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Council, Hon. Chief Vincent Osilonya, has announced that his administration has executed 30 projects since assuming office.

Osilonya made the disclosure while receiving the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Newspaper, Prince Joseph Oromonokpaye, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the council.

He explained that his administration prioritized infrastructure and agriculture by adopting a financial policy where 80 percent of available council funds, after salaries, were dedicated to capital projects, while 20 percent was set aside for overhead expenses. According to him, this prudent approach has enabled the council to deliver meaningful results.

“Our one-year anniversary featured 29 completed projects, and with the addition of a new borehole, the total now stands at 30,” Osilonya noted.

On human capital development, the Chairman cautioned against indiscriminate cash empowerment and distribution of starter packs, stressing that many beneficiaries misuse or sell such support. Instead, he emphasized channeling resources toward genuine farmers and sustainable ventures.

Outlining his agricultural plans, Osilonya revealed that the council is pursuing land acquisition and procuring processing equipment for cassava, yam, and plantain to enhance food production and boost export opportunities. He explained that modern garri-processing machines covering peeling, washing, grinding, pressing, and frying—would be installed in phases, helping farmers access bigger markets with well-packaged products.

He further stated that although budgetary constraints had slowed down full implementation of the law mandating councils to commit two percent of allocations to agriculture, a special agricultural account was being established to ensure compliance. The goal, he said, is to empower real farmers with improved seedlings and equipment rather than temporary handouts.

Osilonya, who maintains close ties with rural communities, assured that any beneficiary found selling empowerment tools would be compelled to refund the council.

He stressed that the combined focus on infrastructure and agriculture was a deliberate strategy to build a lasting foundation that transcends political promises while strengthening the economy of Ndokwa East.

The visit was rounded off with a tour of some completed projects in the council area.

Tompolo Congratulates Ogbe-Ijoh Monarch, HRM Monbene III, on 10th Coronation Anniversary

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Hill Nigeria
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The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo has congratulated HRM, Monbene III the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri Kingdom on the occasion of his 10th coronation anniversary.

In a statement signed by High Chief Dr Government Owcizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, he commended the achievements of HRM Monbene III the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh in areas of peace building, socio-economic well-being of his subjects and the general development of the Kingdom.

The full text of the statement reads;

“On behalf of my family, friends, and associates, I, High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited congratulate HRM, Monbene 111, the Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri Kingdom, (Warri South and Warri South West) on your 10th Coronation Anniversary.

‘It is a thing of joy to celebrate you on your 10 years of ascendancy to the throne of your forefathers” it reads.

I also celebrate your achievements in areas of peace building, socio-economic well-being of your subjects, and general development of the Kingdom.

I pray for good health and long life and many more years on the throne of your forefathers and ancestors. Amen!

Brewing Crisis in Warri: Delta Online Publishers Forum Calls For Dialogue and Sustained Peace

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Hill Nigeria
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The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has expressed deep concern over the brewing tension among ethnic nationalities in Warri, particularly in Warri South Local Government Area, stressing that peace remains the foundation for unity, development, and coexistence.

In a statement issued by the Forum’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Oghenekparobo Ehvwubare, FIMC, ANIPR, DOPF reminded stakeholders that this year’s International Day of Peace,  commemorated every September 21, with this year’s theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” According to the United Nations, peace is not a distant aspiration but a present responsibility requiring urgent action from individuals, communities, traditional institutions and governments alike.

The Forum hinted with concern that Delta State is already grappling with the scourge of insecurity unrests, warned that any escalation of ethnic tension in Warri—the commercial nerve centre of the State would have dire socio-economic consequences on the entire region.

DOPF therefore called on the Delta State Government, security agencies, and traditional institutions in Warri and its environs to rise to the occasion by fostering dialogue, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that peace is sustained through proactive engagement.

The Forum also appealed to youths, community leaders, and stakeholders to act with restraint, reminding them that conflict leaves scars that take decades to heal, while peace strengthens unity and attracts growth and prosperity.

“Warri has long been the economic and social heartbeat of Delta State. Allowing ethnic tensions to escalate in such a vital hub is unacceptable. The path to lasting peace lies in dialogue, inclusivity, and mutual understanding. As we observe this year’s International Day of Peace, we are reminded to ‘act now for a peaceful world’—choosing conversation over conflict, tolerance over division, and unity over discord,” the statement concluded.0

Ukah Commiserates With Ex-Naval Chief, Dele Ezeoba, Over Father’s Death

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Hill Nigeria
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The Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Patrick Ukah, has extended his condolences to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba (Rtd.), on the death of his father, Chief Raphael Odiaka Ezeoba.

In a statement signed and issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Agency, Chibuzor Kingsley in Asaba, Ukah described the late Chief Raphael Ezeoba as a respected community leader who lived a fulfilled life of service, discipline, and integrity.

He said the values of the late patriarch are clearly reflected in the distinguished career and accomplishments of Admiral Ezeoba, noting that his passing is a great loss not only to the family but also to the state.

Ukah prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and urged the Ezeoba family to take solace in the impactful life their father lived.

Warri Crisis: Gov Oborevwori Deployed uncommon Wisdom- Bureau DG

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Hill Nigeria
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…Says Zik Gbemre misunderstood H.E. Delta’s remarks on peaceful coexistence

The Director General of the Delta State Bureau for Communications and Orientation, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has said that governor Sheriff Oborevwori, deployed uncommon wisdom and superior intelligence to skillfully manage the ward delineation crisis between the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo ethnic nationalities by not making unguided statements, not taking sides with any of the parties to the dispute.

Dr Oghenesivbe, who gave further clarification in a statement on Saturday, while responding to unwarranted allegations by a social media commentator, Chief Zik Gbemre, said that the governor’s silence during the Warri crisis was not to protect his reelection in 2027, rather it was a deliberate attempt to sustain peaceful coexistence among ethnic nationalities in the state.

It will be recalled that governor Oborevwori while speaking at a Church Service on Friday, said he decided not to speak publicly on the matter, but made positive efforts to sustain peaceful coexistence amongst the parties involved in the dispute. The governor also appealed to all Deltans to sustain peace, and continue to support his administration.

The Bureau Chief described Governor Oborevwori as a leader with high cognitive abilities, and has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, which is why Delta is enjoying peace, and making steady progress in all sectors of the state economy.

He noted that Chief Zik Gbemre’s allegations were grossly unfounded on the grounds that the governor being the Chief Security Officer of the state, must carefully weigh his actions and inactions, and adopt a result oriented strategy to resolve issues or to deal with complex matters, such as the Warri ward dileneation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), already adjudicated upon by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Dr Oghenesivbe, cautioned the social media commentator to avoid inflammatory statements that could fracture relevant sections of the cybercrimes Act, and other Laws in force, pointing out that politically motivated statements that could spark breach of public peace, ignite communal wars or conflicts must be avoided completely, going forward.

He stated that Freedom of Speech (FoS) as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is with certain exceptions; and that FoS does not include cyber bullying, provocative and inflammatory statements, falsehoods, insults and abuses on any citizen and non-citizen of Nigeria.

Dr Oghenesivbe, advised Chief Gbemre, to always see himself as an elder statesman, not as a cyber bully, political contractor or agent of disunity, assuring that the state government and the Governor welcomes constructive criticism necessary to expand the scope of good governance, and delivery of dividends of democracy to the people.

“The State Bureau for Orientation and Communications urges citizens of Delta State to disregard Chief Zik Gbemre’s unwarranted cyber attacks on our amiable governor, Rt Hon (Dr) Sheriff Oborevwori.

“Deltans are happy with the good governance strides of our governor. As the father of the state, a democrat and governor for all Deltans, it is required of him not to make unguided or divisive statements that could instigate ethnic conflicts. Our governor is a grassroot politician with uncommon humility and God-given wisdom.

“Although, Governor Oborevwori did not make public statements regarding the Warri ward dileneation crisis which had already got finality at the Supreme Court, he proactively made frantic and result oriented efforts, and he successfully tammed the foreseeable crisis. That’s what he meant during his remarks on Friday at a Church Service.

“Governor Oborevwori style of leadership is exclusive and personalized, always result oriented for the benefit of all Deltans. His pedigree is flawless, and his public acceptance is unprecedented.

“Chief Zik Gbemre’s unwarranted cyber bullying on Saturday via a social media post is unfortunate. He’s a respected elder statesman, and must never again give room for Deltans to cast aspersions at his person, doubt his sincerity of purpose or question his integrity.

“Gbemre is strongly advised to embrace peace, avoid cyber bullying, insults and abuses in his actions and inactions. There are laws in place to address certain exceptions to freedom of speech enshrined in our country’s federal constitution.

“Come 2027, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Tinubu will sweep the polls in Delta State, as a result of their exceptional and enviable performances, detribalized and visionary leadership style,’ Oghenesivbe assured.

Boundary Row Threatens Peace In Ogbeozoma Community

By
Hill Nigeria
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… As Community Leaders Call for Governor’s Intervention

The Ikejiani 1 of Okpanam and spokesperson of Ogbeozoma community in Okpanam, Chief Felix Okafor has called on the Delta State government to figure out the actual boundary between Issele Azagba in Aniocha North and Ogbeozoma in Oshimili North Local Government.

Okafor made the call while speaking with journalists during a press briefing which held at the Ogbeozoma town hall in Okpanam.

On his part the secretary said they were not satisfied with the resolution of the boundary committee, hence the need for government to constitute another committee to use the GPS to remedy the situation and map out the boundary for the sake of peace.

He said the long-running boundary dispute between Okpanam and and Issele Azagba has escalated after a recent demarcation exercise, adding that it places the new boundary well outside the area both sides have been contesting.

According to him, the newest survey and pegging carried out as part of a government boundary demarcation put the line in a spot that her community does not accept. “The area in question, and where they are now pegging, or demarcating the land, falls outside the area, the location, where these two communities are contesting for”.

Okafor added that what they were doing was wrong and out of the place in contest. “While we are fighting for development we are now face with the challenges of land grabbers”, he said.

He said the encroachment into their boundary adding that a look at the survey chart indicates a difference from what they were talking about. “For them to have moved from that location down to Sumin company is what something we can’t take”.

On his part, the Secretary of Ogbeozoma community, Mr Godwin Nwalie appealed to the state government to look into the issue so as not to prompt a situation of unrest, as it was their ancestral land.

He urged government to come to their rescue and remedy the situation and If need be, constitute another committee to handle and shoulder this responsibility.”

Speaking on of the youths in the community, Mr Stephen Ifesindi questioned the impartiality of the current committee and surveyors, suggesting personal relationships may be influencing the outcome.

“We are not comfortable with the Surveyor General. What he’s doing, we are not comfortable with him” he said.

He called for GPS-based verification of the true boundary, “Let him use the GPS to indicate where the boundary is. Let him not frustrate us. We want the government to come into this issue and remedy the situation.”

Community members also pointed to friendships and allegiances they say have shaped the process. One speaker noted that several local leaders and influential figures have close ties with those now favouring the disputed demarcation.

RHI, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Delta Govt Empowers 1,000 Women Traders With Grants In Asaba

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the Delta State Government, has empowered 1,000 women traders in Delta State with financial grants to support and expand their businesses.

The programme, held in Asaba, is part of the nationwide women’s empowerment initiative launched by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. It aims to strengthen small-scale businesses and provide sustainable economic support for women at the grassroots.

In her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the scheme is not a loan but a grant designed to recapitalize existing businesses. She stressed the importance of women’s empowerment in driving family and community growth.

“It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation,” the First Lady stated.

She also commended the Tony Elumelu Foundation for donating ₦1 billion to the initiative, which will directly benefit 18,500 women across Nigeria. Each state, including the FCT, will have 500 beneficiaries receiving ₦50,000 each.

Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, praised the inclusivity of this year’s edition and noted the support of her husband’s administration, which sponsored the recapitalization of an additional 500 women traders, bringing the total beneficiaries in Delta to 1,000.

Deaconess Oborevwori further explained that the beneficiaries were drawn from diverse religious, professional, and community backgrounds.

“Among the 1,000 beneficiaries are Christian and Muslim women groups, wives of military and paramilitary personnel, journalists, and women from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa communities,” she said.

“This inclusivity reflects the true spirit of the Renewed Hope Initiative.”

She urged the women to use the grants wisely, support their families, and contribute to the growth of their communities. She also encouraged continued prayers and support for her husband, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as they create opportunities for women.

The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of ₦50,000 each to selected traders, witnessed by dignitaries, community leaders, and women’s organizations.

The elated beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as timely support that would help them expand their businesses and provide for their families.

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