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Delta APC Stakeholders Harp On Unity, E-Registration, Congresses

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State on Friday converged at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, for a high-level meeting that underscored unity, E-Registration, grassroots mobilisation and preparedness ahead of forthcoming party congresses.

Addressing leaders and members, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori stressed that leadership derives its legitimacy from the people and must be guided by humility, empathy and service.

He urged stakeholders to place collective interest above personal considerations, resist division and avoid unnecessary conflicts, noting that unity remains the party’s greatest strength.

The governor said meetings of the nature provide opportunities to review progress, strengthen structures and prepare for critical political milestones, adding that mobilisation, registration and participation would ultimately determine electoral outcomes.

While stressing the need for them to deliver massive votes for President Bola Tinubu and all other elective positions in the 2027 elections, he said the number of votes they are able to deliver will determine their strength and what they are able to attract at the federal level.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, SAN, urged members to maintain focus as the party approaches congresses, praising the progress recorded in the e-registration exercise and the party’s growing diversity.

He cautioned against rumours and delays, called for early engagement and consensus-building at the local level, and advised dialogue to reduce tension.

Immediate past Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, thanked Governor Oborevwori for convening the meeting and described his visit to Government House after many years as a gesture of inclusiveness.

He pledged to work in unity with Governor Oborevwori and other stakeholders to strengthen the APC. Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, commended stakeholders for their unity and sustained engagement, urging intensified grassroots mobilisation to deepen e-registration by taking the exercise to homes and communities.

He emphasised inclusiveness, and consensus in the conduct of congresses, praising Governor Oborevwori’s role in fostering harmony and urging leaders to return to their constituencies with renewed commitment.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Felix Morka, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s leadership and the digitalisation of the party’s membership register, recommending a consensus approach for the forthcoming congresses.

In his welcome remarks, State APC Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, said the party had recorded over 90 per cent realignment since April 2025, describing the gathering as evidence of growing unity and momentum.

On e-registration and congress preparations, Delta North APC Chairman, Ogbueshi Adizue Eluaka, noted peace in the district but highlighted challenges with registration. Delta Central Chairman, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, reported progress with Okpe Local Government leading statewide and appealed for restraint pending guidelines, while Delta South Chairman, Prince Austin Oribioye, urged the resolution of technical glitches to meet targets.

The State E-Registration Coordinator, Prince Fred Mordi, said Delta State was selected to host the South-South training, reporting rising registration figures despite minor challenges and expressed confidence in meeting targets before the deadline.

A minute of silence was observed in honour of late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi who represented Delta North Senatorial District at the Senate

DTSG Donates N10 Million To Support Cancer Treatment Initiative

The Delta State Government has donated the sum of N10 million to support the humanitarian campaign of Miss Chineyenwa Judith Amadi, aimed at raising funds for cancer patients across the country through her initiative, “A Ride for Life.”

Presenting the cheque on behalf of the state government, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, described cancer as one of the most devastating diseases confronting contemporary society.

He said the state government was honoured to associate with the initiative, noting that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori gave a clear directive for the donation in support of the noble cause.

“This is our contribution, our statement of solidarity, and our commitment to humanity,” Dr. Emu said, adding that the gesture reflected the government’s resolve to give strong support to initiatives that seek to alleviate human suffering.

According to him, the burden of cancer affects families, communities, and the entire healthcare system, stressing that every effort aimed at easing this burden deserves encouragement and support.

“I am pleased to inform you that steps are being taken to ensure that cancer facility is established, so that our people can access quality cancer care within the state, without the added hardship of travelling long distances,” he said.

Commending Miss Amadi for riding motorcycle across 16 countries as part of her advocacy, the SSG disclosed that the state government was investing in saving lives.

“This is not just about goodwill; it is about providing the right information, guidance, and support to help initiatives like this to achieve their objectives and make real impact,” he added.

Also speaking at the presentation ceremony held at the SSG’s Conference Hall in Asaba, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, emphasised that while treatment is critical, prevention remains the most powerful tool in the fight against cancer.

He explained that in cases such as cervical cancer, early intervention through appropriate medical procedures can significantly reduce, and in many cases prevent, the disease.

He noted that breast cancer, when detected early, is highly manageable.
“Regular hospital visits, routine medical check-ups, and timely breast examinations can lead to early detection and ultimately save lives,” he stated.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to healthcare development, noting that beyond infrastructure, the government was investing heavily in modern medical equipment.

He revealed that across the three senatorial districts, Delta State has functional and state-of-the-art MRI facilities that rank among the best available.

“These are critical, expensive, and life-saving investments, and they demonstrate our resolve to building a strong, responsive healthcare system,” he said.

In her remarks, a visibly elated Miss Amadi expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for the gesture, stating that the goal of her initiative is to raise funds for cancer patients who cannot afford treatment and to give them hope and encouragement to continue fighting the disease.

“This journey is deeply personal for me. I have lost loved ones to cancer, and I also have loved ones who have survived it. I am currently very close to someone who is battling cancer, and that experience is what truly inspired this project,” she said.

She recounted how earlier in 2025 she began personally supporting the chemotherapy of a cancer patient who could barely afford treatment, only to later realise that many patients are forced to abandon treatment midway due to lack of funds.

“They are not lacking courage; they are lacking support. That realisation pushed me to invest my personal resources into a project I named ‘A Ride for Life.’ The goal is simple but powerful: to raise funds for people in this situation and to remind them that they are not alone,” she said.

The event was attended by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Festus Ahon; and other government officials.

Oborevwori, Stakeholders Bewails Low Turnout of Continuous Voter Registration, Call For Massive Grassroots Mobilisation In Delta

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed concern over the low turnout recorded during the first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in the state, urging stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the second phase commencing in January 2026.

The Governor made this known on Wednesday at 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.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori described the registration figures from the first phase as far below expectations, noting that the 76,000 registrants recorded did not reflect the population strength and democratic consciousness of the state.

He stressed that voter registration remains the gateway to democratic participation and the foundation of a credible and inclusive electoral process.

Governor Oborevwori called on traditional rulers, political party leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, market associations, and the media to take ownership of the CVR campaign by driving awareness directly to communities.

He particularly appealed to youths and first-time voters to seize the opportunity to register, describing them as the future of democracy.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for INEC to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities and expressed optimism that the second phase of the exercise would record a significant improvement over the first.

Earlier in his welcome address, Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, said the engagement was necessitated by declining civic participation and voter apathy.

He emphasised that while INEC’s primary responsibility is to conduct elections, citizen participation through voter registration is fundamental to good governance.

According to him, citizens who fail to exercise their civic responsibility of voting forfeit the moral right to complain about governance outcomes.

In his presentation, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udoh Umoren, outlined the timeline of the first phase of the CVR, which commenced with online pre-registration in August 2025, followed by physical registration across local government offices and the display of the voters register for claims and objections, in line with the Electoral Act 2022.

He explained that the CVR accommodates first-time voters, those who missed earlier registrations, applicants seeking correction of personal details, replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and those wishing to transfer their registration.

The REC announced that the second phase of the CVR began on January 5, 2026, stressing that voter registration is a civic duty and a cornerstone of democracy, not merely an administrative exercise.

He also cautioned against registration offences such as multiple registrations and providing false information, noting the legal penalties attached, while assuring of INEC’s commitment to neutrality, transparency, and peaceful conduct of the exercise.

The sensitisation programme which featured a roadwalk show led by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, was attended by key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; Hon. Francis Waive, member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency; members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council; traditional rulers, market women, civil society organisations, community leaders, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), ALGON, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), among others.

Second Batch of Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Arrive in Amman , Jordan Safely

The second batch of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims arrived in Amman, the Kingdom of Jordan in the early hours of Saturday, 10th January 2026.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Deputy Director and Head Media and Public Relations NCPC, Celestine Toruka

The second batch of Nigerian Christian Pilgrims is led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission NCPC RT Rev.Prof. Monsignor Cletus Gotan.
The pilgrims which comprised Borno, Bauchi and Consulars were over 500.
On arrival in Amman, the pilgrims were warmly received by the Chairman of Tabar Tours Nazareth Israel, Wisam Tabar, the General Manager of Tabar Tours Shadia Srour as well as the officials of SkyRise and Uniteam the ground handlers.
The pilgrims are expected to spend a few nights in Jordan before proceeding to Israel to complete their Pilgrimage circle of 10 days duration.
It would be recalled that the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission officially commenced the 2025 Main pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan on 29th December, 2025. All the pilgrims of the first batch safely returned to Nigeria on the 8th of January, 2026.
It is also instructive to note that the Commission has made history with the current 2025 Main pilgrimage exercise by deploying for the first time a Boeing 777 – 300 pilgrims aircraft with over 500 seating capacity, the largest aircraft ever operated in Nigeria for the airlift of Christian Pilgrims to the holy land.

Delta State Government Moves Swiftly as Ashibogwu Assesses Fire Incident at Delta Government School, Warri

By Felix Evwihor

In line with the Delta State Government’s commitment to the safety of students and the protection of public educational infrastructure, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, on Monday, January 19,2026 paid an on-the-spot assessment visit to Delta Secondary School, Warri, following a fire outbreak that affected parts of the school.

The Commissioner was received by the Principal of the school, Mrs. Misan Ekpuku, who briefed him and officials of the Ministry on the incident and its remote and immediate causes.

She informed the Commissioner that while no life was lost in the unfortunate incident, the fire destroyed some classrooms and damaged critical school properties, thereby disrupting normal academic activities.

Reacting to the briefing, Dr. Ashibogwu expressed the concern of the Delta State Government over the incident and commended the school management for its timely response, which helped prevent loss of lives.

He reassured the school community that the state government would respond promptly to the situation, noting that government would not allow the incident to negatively impact teaching and learning in the school.

The Commissioner emphasized that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration remains committed to providing safe, secure, and conducive learning environments in all public secondary schools across the state.

He added that the Ministry would immediately compile a detailed report of the damage for onward transmission to the appropriate authorities to enable swift intervention and restoration of the affected facilities.

Dr. Ashibogwu, alongside members of his entourage, was conducted round the burnt classroom block by the Principal, Mrs. Ekpuku, accompanied by the Principal of Hussey College, Warri, Mrs. Justina Wategire, to carry out a first-hand assessment of the level of destruction

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.

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