Maiden Convocation: Oborevwori Inaugurates landmark infrastructure at Southern Delta University

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday inaugurated series of landmark projects at Southern Delta University, Ozoro, as part of events marking the institution’s maiden convocation ceremony.

Among the projects commissioned were a block of science laboratories, the Faculty of Computing Complex, the Pa James Odhokpa Izomor Engineering Workshops comprising 10 fully equipped workshops donated by Engineer Godwin Izomor, male and female hostels, and the Faculty of Medical Sciences building constructed by the Delta State Government.

Inaugurating the projects, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to God for the milestone and lauded the university for its steady growth within a short period.

“I am very pleased to be here today. First and foremost, I thank Almighty God for making this occasion possible, and I commend Southern Delta University for this remarkable milestone,” he said.

The Governor disclosed that he began the day’s activities before 9 a.m. with the commissioning of key facilities, including laboratories and workshops for the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Computing Complex.

He described as particularly inspiring the engineering workshops built through private initiative in memory of Pa James Izomor, noting that the gesture reflected a worthy investment in education and human capital development.

“While many people invest their wealth in luxury and showmanship, this family chose to invest in education. This is deeply commendable, and I pray that God will continue to bless them,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, the Governing Council and management for their prudent and transparent management of the University’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which he said had translated into tangible infrastructural development.

“I am particularly impressed with the prudent use of Internally Generated Revenue by the University management. I encourage Vice-Chancellors of other universities to emulate what is being done here,” he added, while reaffirming that the institution is permitted to control and deploy its IGR for developmental purposes.

Reflecting on the Faculty of Medical Sciences project, the Governor recalled inspecting the building last year and promising that the new faculty would be provided with a befitting structure and conducive learning environment.

“Today, I am glad to say that this promise has been fulfilled. The quality of work delivered here speaks volumes. This is indeed a very significant project and clearly reflects the steady expansion and growth of the university. This is a promise made and a promise kept,” he said.

He described the Medical Faculty project as critical to the advancement of medical education and scientific research in the state.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Oboreh, disclosed that several of the projects were executed through internally generated revenue and direct labour, a strategy that ensured cost-effectiveness and quality control.

He thanked Governor Oborevwori for his consistent funding and unwavering support, which he said had enabled the young institution to achieve significant infrastructural and academic milestones within a short period.

The inauguration of the projects stood out as a major highlight of the historic maiden convocation ceremony, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to strengthening tertiary education and providing modern facilities to support learning and innovation in Delta State.

Monthly Prayer Fellowship: Mrs Andaye Hosts Delta’s 25 LGA Chairpersons in Bomadi

The wife of Bomadi Local Government Chairman, Hon. (Mrs) Rejoice Andaye on Friday February 27 hosted the wives of Delta State local government chairmen in Delta State for their monthly prayer meeting and fellowship.

The event took place at the Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori Multipurpose Event Centre located within the Bomadi Secretariat, Bomadi local government area of Delta State.

The gathering featured discussions and intercessory prayers aimed at fostering peace, unity, and development across Delta State and its local government areas.

Addressing the chairpersons the Executive Chairman of Bomadi local government council Hon. Dagidi Andaye, commended the First Ladies for their ongoing prayers and unwavering support for their husbands and local communities.

He highlighted their vital role in promoting peace and stability and reiterated his commitment, along with other council chairmen, to support initiatives that enhance the lives of their constituents.

Hon. Andaye expressed gratitude for the prayers and encouragement they had received, stating, “Your prayers and encouragement have helped me and my colleagues across the state.”

Coordinator of the women’s group and wife of the Aniocha South Local Government Chairman,
Mrs. Ella Chukwunwike, expressed appreciation to Hon. Dagidi Andaye and Hon. Rejoice Andaye for hosting the event.

She noted that the meetings are designed to promote unity among local governments and support state leadership through prayerful intervention.

Chukwunwike emphasized the importance of aligning the prayer sessions with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. agenda and the initiatives of First Lady Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, particularly the U-Matter Charity Foundation.

Also speaking the wife of Ika South Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Efechukwu Whiwarior, praised Hon. Dagidi Andaye for his significant infrastructural developments in Bomadi and extended prayers for continued blessings and protection for him and his family.

For her part, wife of Bomadi local government council chairman,Hon. Rejoice Andaye expressed her gratitude to all the chairpersons for their participation in the monthly prayer meeting, underscoring the impact of their prayers in attracting blessings and peace for Delta State and its local governments.

The monthly fellowship is designed to rotate among the 25 local government areas, fostering unity, mutual support, and spiritual upliftment among the first ladies.

**Says late Senator Nwaoboshi was a bridge-builder, patriot

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Friday urged political leaders to remain united and rise above bitterness and rivalry, maintaining that Nigeria’s advancement depends on cooperation, mutual respect, and collective responsibility.

Speaking at the Funeral Mass of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ibusa, Governor Oborevwori, said the life and passing of Senator Nwaoboshi should remind leaders at all levels that public office is a sacred trust, entrusted by God and the people for the common good of the nation.

Eminent Nigerians from across political, ethnic and religious divides gathered at Ibusa to honour the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.

He said: “Power is transient. Positions are temporary. But the legacy of service endures. Let us learn from this solemn moment. Let us govern with humility. Let us engage one another with respect. Let us remember that history will judge us not by titles held, but by lives touched”.

He called for peace and purposeful collaboration, noting that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity.

“When we are united, there is strength. When we cooperate, there is progress. But when we allow division to define us, we weaken the moral foundation upon which we stand. Nigeria must always come first,” he emphasized.

Governor Oborevwori reassured Deltans that his administration remains committed to inclusive development, responsible governance, and policies that uplift the people.

“To the children and family of our departed brother, let his name remain your badge of honour. Let his legacy inspire excellence, integrity, and patriotism. His service to Delta State and Nigeria will not be forgotten,” he added.

Oborevwori said life and death remain in the hands of Almighty God, adding that true greatness is measured not by the length of years, but by the depth of impact. “What matters most is not how long we live, but how well we serve humanity and our nation,” he said.

Continuing, he said: “We are gathered in this sacred sanctuary not only to mourn a distinguished son of Delta State, but to reflect deeply on the kind of nation we are building.

“The life of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi challenges us to place service above self, unity above division, and country above personal ambition.”

Citing John 11:25 — “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he live”, the Governor emphasized the Christian hope of eternal life, noting that Nigerians must draw strength from faith even in moments of national reflection.

“We do not grieve as those without hope. We commend our brother to the Almighty, trusting in His promise of resurrection and everlasting peace. But as we pray for him, we must also renew our commitment to the ideals he stood for, courage, representation, and dedication to his people”, he said.

Describing Senator Nwaoboshi as a bridge-builder and patriot, Oborevwori said his contributions transcended political affiliations and strengthened democratic governance in Nigeria.

“He was not just a political figure; he was a servant of the people and a firm believer in Nigeria’s unity and progress. Indeed, the memory of the righteous is a blessing,” the Governor stated.

In his homily, the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Mobuogwu, preached on hope, accountability, and divine justice. Drawing from the experience of the Israelites in exile, he reminded the faithful that God remains present even in seasons of uncertainty.

Quoting the Book of Wisdom, he affirmed: “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”

“Time is not in our hands; it is in God’s hands. Let us live and serve in such a way that we may hear, ‘Welcome, good and faithful servant,” he said.

The Funeral Mass drew a distinguished gathering of national figures, underscoring the enduring influence of the late Senator. Among those present were the Governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme; former Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Senate President Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; former Deputy Governor Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; and numerous federal and state lawmakers.

**Dedicates Honour To Deltans

​The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was on Friday February 27 honoured with the Leadership Action Award by the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) in recognition of his administration’s commitment to peace, justice, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.

​The award ceremony, held in Asaba, highlighted the Governor’s significant contributions toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Receiving the award, Governor Oborevwori who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the recognition as a validation of his administration’s governance model, which prioritizes due process and accountability as catalysts for genuine development.

​The Governor said: “Justice is the oxygen of democracy; peace is the infrastructure of trust. This recognition reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions, the rule of law, and the equity that sustains peace.

“To be recognized by an institution so firmly committed to advancing democratic values and safeguarding integrity is not just a personal honor; it is a validation of the path we have chosen in governance, a path anchored in due process, accountability, and the unwavering belief that peace and justice are the bedrock of true development.
​
“This recognition of our contributions to Sustainable Development Goal 16 reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions.

“This award aligns with our MORE Agenda: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. Without peace, opportunities diminish; without security, development falters and I dedicate this recognition to our hardworking team and the resilient people of Delta State, whose collective commitment turns vision into reality.

​”This award is not a destination but a call to greater duty”.

​Earlier, President of the Rights Monitoring Group (RMG) and United States Permanent Representative of Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) to the United Nations, Comrade Olufemi Aduwo, stated that the award is a foremost global recognition for excellence in public service.

“Governor Oborevwori has recorded remarkable progress in the strengthening of public institutions, enhanced citizen security, deepened community-centered conflict resolution mechanisms, and widened access to justice across Delta State,” he said.

​speaking on the sideline of the ceremony, Prof. Oluyemisi Akinyemiju, said; “each time we visit Delta State, we take time to assess the progress made in areas we previously identified.

“We compared the progress of this state with others we visited. I see this recognition as both an honor and a call to the state government to continue their positive efforts.”

The ceremony was attended by top government functionaries.

**Otuaro, Agediga, Mulade Eselemo, Ukori, Nengi, Others hail ljaw Media group

The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum, lPF on Thursday 26 February, 2026 formally inaugurated its second National Executive Council in Warri, Delta State.

The historic event attracted notable sons and daughters of ljaw nation, media professionals, opinion leaders, business tycoons, civil society organizations, and well wishers from across the Niger Delta and beyond to celebrate with the apex ljaw media association.

The occasion was chaired by Amb. Dr. Shedrach Agediga, the Chairman Delta State board of Bursary and Scholarship alongside Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, the Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme for Niger Delta ex-agitators, as Special Guest of Honour.

Other dignitaries include; Amb. Dr. Jude Ebitimi Ukori as Father of the Day, Dr. Sheriff Mulade, Alabo Nengi James OON, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni, Chairman Warri South-West LGA, Hon. Kofi Amassuomo, Gen. Godstime Ogidigba, Amb. Dr. Princewill Yerin Binebai, Spokesman lYC, Comrade Nicholas lgarama, Chairman IYC Western Zone, Barr. Omes Ogedegbe, Chief. Keme Monday, Bishop elect, Peter Sunday, Ekanpou Enewaridideke Ph.D, Richard Ebibofa, Ayaebi Onduku as Guest of Honours at the occasion.

Presenting his address, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High Chief Dennis Otuaro Ph.D, who was represented by Capt. Presley Perebor, congratulated the newly Sworn-ln executives on their successful inauguration.

He further lauded the forum for its role in promoting responsible journalism and regional development. He urged media practitioners to sustain constructive engagement in the Niger Delta and to uphold professional standard, stressing that is the only way the forum can better tell the ljaw story to the global world.

In his message, Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Shedrack Agediga, who was ably represented by Francis Pesi congratulated the new leadership, describing the transition as a sign of stability within the body. He advised the forum to collaborate with external national broadcast and print medias in the area of partnership, thereby connecting the body to national limelight.

He concluded by charging the forum to unite all ljaw media practitioners/publishers under the umbrella, adding that there is strength in unity. He concluded by saying lPF would be the first contact point in the future for objective, balance current news information gathering as well as dissemination of news items in the Niger Delta region.

The Guest Speaker of the occasion, Dr. Collins Eselemo expressed satisfaction on the activities of the ljaw Publishers Forum. He admonished them to be independent in telling the ljaw story and not attached themselves to any politician that will jorpardise their vision in the short run.

He charged the forum to continue their good works for ljaw nation, stressing that posterity would be kind to them in the nearest future.

Eselemo further urged ljaw goodwill leaders and critical stakeholders to support the forum activities in the way of attending their programs, financial and moral support in order to encourage them.

He concluded by donating a flat for lPF Secretariat as well as establishment of lPF Radio/Television station in the Niger Delta.

Delivering his goodwill message, the current Vice President 2, ljaw National Congress (INC) and a frontline presidential aspirant in the forthcoming lNC elections, Se-Alabo Nengi James OON, also congratulated the forum new leadership on their successful inauguration, while charging them to always show gratitude to those who stood by them in time of need, adding that he will continue to support and appreciate the good works of the apex ljaw media body.

On his part, Chief Amb. Comr. Sheriff Mulade Ph’D, harps on unity among Ijaw media stakeholders. He urged the forum to portray themselves as role model and groom the younger generations on the modus operandi of journalism.

In his acceptance speech, the newly Sworn-ln IPF President, Comrade Ozobo Austin, thanked ljaw nation for embracing the forum activities in the last two years of formation.

He described the inauguration as a milestone that reflects continuity and renewed commitment to the objectives of the association. He pledged to strengthen the voice of Ijaw publishers and expand professional opportunities for members.

However, Ozobo lamented the poor treatment given to the fallen Hero of ljaw nation, late. Major Jasper Isaac Adaka Boro. He called for a national honour for the late ljaw leader who sacrifice his life for Nigeria’s unity during the Nigeria Vs Biafra civil war. He said Issac Boro laid down his life for the emancipation of ljaw people in particular, and Niger Delta region at large.

Meanwhile, the guest artist, Gen. Best May alias JFred entertained guests with good melodies to the admiration of spectators. The occasion also featured comedy by Mr. Right, MC. Be D Light among other cultural dance display.

However, see below the list of the newly Sworn-ln IPF executives that will run the affairs of the forum in the next two years.

1) Comrade Ozobo Austin_ National President

2) Onduku Charlse Oyinbi_ National Vice President

3) Tare Magbei_ Secretary General

4) Benjamin Tamaradoubra_Asst Secretary

5) Kagbala Ezekiel_ Spokesperson

6) Kanjo Joseph_ Financial Secretary

7) Mingo Friday_ Treasurer

8) Tamaraupreye Ekpegha – Welfare Officer.

**Aims at de-escalate recurring tensions among ethnic groups in Warri, Delta Stat

** Chief Mulade calls for peaceful coexistence among Ijaw, Itsekiri, 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 February 24 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.

Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu is a blessing to Nigerians, Gov. Oborevwori declares

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Thursday 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 remains firmly Committed to Development of Riverine communities-Clark

The Commissioner in charge of the Directorate for Riverine Infrastructure Development, Chief Ebikeme Clark, has affirmed that Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, remains firmly and irrevocably committed to the development of riverine communities.

Chief Clark made the assertion during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Warri North and Warri South-West Local Government Areas, reaffirming that the Oborevwori administration remains determined to deliver meaningful infrastructure to riverine areas under the MORE Agenda.

The projects inspected include the 3.1-kilometre road linking Kolokolo and Tisun communities in Warri North LGA and the Oporoza Model Secondary School in Warri South-West LGA.

The commissioner was accompanied by engineers from the directorate, representatives of Ocean Explorers Nigeria Limited the construction firm handling the road project as well as leaders of the benefiting communities.

Addressing stakeholders during the visit, Chief Clark emphasized that Governor Oborevwori is resolute in ensuring that residents of riverine communities enjoy the same quality of infrastructure available in urban centres, despite the challenges posed by the creek terrain.

“This is the deep creek of Delta State. Some people believed nothing tangible could be achieved here because of the terrain. But for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, terrain is not a limitation. He has proven his capacity in urban areas and is replicating the same standards in riverine communities. He is breaking the jinx,” Clark stated.

He noted that the Kolokolo–Tisun road project was awarded to a competent contractor to ensure durability and high standards, stressing that the state government would not condone substandard execution of any project.

The Commissioner commended the contractor for the significant progress recorded and the quality of work delivered so far, despite prevailing environmental challenges.

He noted that the contractor handling the Oporoza project has demonstrated commendable competence and capacity, but is being considerably constrained by the difficult terrain.

He also lauded the host communities for their peaceful cooperation, describing it as essential for the timely completion of development projects.

In his remarks, the General Manager of Ocean Explorers Nigeria Limited, Amb. Muobor Krubu, disclosed that the 3.1-kilometre road contract was awarded in September 2025 and is scheduled for completion within twelve months.

He assured that the company remains committed to delivering the project within the stipulated timeline and praised the host communities for their support and understanding.

Community leaders, including the Chairman of Kolokolo Community, Mr. Gabriel Tetsola; the Secretary of Tisun Community, Mr. Frederick Kuke; the Chairman of Oporoza Community, Mr. Emmanuel Ebi; and Chief Demebi Izirimi, expressed profound appreciation to the Delta State Government.

They described the projects as the most significant development interventions ever witnessed in their communities and pledged continued loyalty and support to Governor Oborevwori’s administration.

The Oporoza Model Secondary School, when completed, will comprise male and female hostels, staff quarters, a well-equipped library, science laboratories, administrative offices, and other modern facilities designed to enhance teaching and learning.

The inspection tour further highlights the Oborevwori administration’s resolve to bridge infrastructural gaps and promote balanced, inclusive development across all parts of Delta State.

Oborevwori Celebrates NTF, President Victor Ochei At 57

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, 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.

Delta Government Commits ₦8bn to Link Hinterland Communities, Commissioner Izeze, reveals

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.