**Orders Immediate Rehabilitation Of Failed Sections Of Ubeji/Egbokodo, Shaguolor/Refinery Road

Delta State Governor RT. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori Woos Investors to Delta, Says Warri is reclaiming its place as Delta’s commercial and tourism hub.

Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, called on investors particularly Deltans at home and in the diaspora to take advantage of the state’s steadily improving socio-economic climate to invest in the State.

The Governor who made the call on Friday in Ubeji, Warri South Local Government Area, while inaugurating a multi-million-naira hospitality and tourism investment, the Swiss International Rancho Valerie Hotel, said; “the time to invest in Delta State is now.”

“Warri is rising again, Delta State is progressing steadily. The shadows of yesterday have given way to the bright possibilities of today and the greater promises of tomorrow,” the Governor declared.

Saying the hotel is a bold testament to the rising economic profile of Warri, Oborevwori ordered the immediate rehabilitation of failed portion of the Ubeji/Egbokodo/Refinery Road.

According to him, the establishment of the hotel will not only provide premium accommodation, but also stimulate local enterprise, create jobs, enhance community peace, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of the state.

He said: “This hotel is not just another project; it is a clear statement that Delta State is open for business. It affirms that our state is safe, investor-friendly, and capable of hosting world-class hospitality and tourism ventures”.

Governor Oborevwori praised the hotel’s owner, Mr. Mode Akoma, describing the project as an inspiring story of vision, resilience, and determination.

He commended Akoma’s choice to invest in his home community rather than elsewhere, calling it a demonstration of deep commitment to Delta’s development.

“If you had invited me to commission a hotel you built outside Delta State, I would not have attended. But I am proud that you chose to develop your community. This project brings jobs, brings peace, and brings progress,” he added.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, enhanced security, and investor-friendly policies under the MORE Agenda.

While congratulating the owners and management of Swiss International Rancho Valerie, he emphasized that the success of such projects underscores the limitless investment opportunities available in Delta State.

Earlier in his welcome address, General Manager of the hotel, Mr. Todowede Opeyemi, said the facility would provide exceptional hospitality services that meet international standard.

He added that the management is committed to contributing to the state’s development by helping unlock Delta’s rich tourism potential.

“Every guest who visits us deserves more than just a stay; they deserve an unforgettable experience, one that reflects our culture, our hospitality, and our warmth as a people,” Opeyemi said.

NUATE Bayelsa Chapter commends Governor Diri for inaugural flight to BIA

The National Union of Airport Transport Employees, NUATE Bayelsa State Chapter, has commended Governor Douye Diri’s administration for recording another landmark feat in the state’s history with the inaugural flight of one of its two newly acquired aircraft landing at Bayelsa International Airport, BIA.

The ATR-72/600 aircraft, which took off from the domestic wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, had 50 passengers and crew on board, including Governor Douye Diri and other dignitaries, like the former deputy governor of Bayelsa State, senators, commissioners, assembly members, and the Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri, and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Sam Ogbuku.

The aircraft received the traditional water cannon salute on arrival from the fire trucks at the airport.

“At this point, the NUATE body uses this medium to appeal to the state government to look into some important developmental issues to address concerns at the airport.

“If these issues can be addressed amicably, then the viability of a good working environment will be achieved. Note, the issues we are talking about are unserviceable facilities in the aerodrome and the workers’ welfare; these are the two major points.”

Oborevwori Presents N1.664 Trillion 2026 Budget

**Allocates 100 Billion to 25 LGAs for direct intervention, 70% To Capital Projects

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday presented a N1.664 trillion Appropriation Bill for 2026 to the Delta State House of Assembly, with a bold 70 percent dedicated to capital expenditure, signaling an aggressive push for infrastructure expansion and socio-economic development in the 2026 fiscal year.

The presentation, held at the hallowed chamber of the Assembly Complex in Asaba, was made pursuant to Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as altered).

Presenting the budget Christened; “Budget of Accelerating the More Agenda”, Governor Oborevwori said the budget was crafted against the backdrop of an improving national economy, with Nigeria’s GDP projected to grow by 3.9% in 2026.

He noted that rising oil revenues, stabilising fiscal and monetary policies, tax reforms, and renewed federal efforts in tackling insecurity have rekindled hope for economic expansion and improved living standards.

The governor explained that the 2026 budget is designed to drive inclusive and sustainable growth, develop human capital, accelerate infrastructure renewal, enhance social cohesion, reduce debt exposure, and ensure better resource management.

He said that the total budget size, ₦499 billion (30%) is proposed for recurrent expenditure, while ₦1.165 trillion (70%) is earmarked for capital projects, representing a 70% increase over the 2025 appropriation.

On revenue expectations, Oborevwori stated that the state anticipates significant improvement in Federal allocations following the removal of fuel subsidy.

Statutory Allocation including mineral derivation is projected at ₦720 billion, accounting for 43.28% of total revenue, reflecting a 23.75% rise from the previous year. He also disclosed that ongoing reforms in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) collection are expected to yield ₦250 billion in 2026, an 86.5% increase over 2025, driven by professionalized revenue processes and a broader tax net.

The governor noted a “projected ₦120 billion from VAT remittances”, citing improved VAT administration at the national level, adding that capital receipts are deliberately reduced to ₦25 billion as the state aims to maintain a zero-borrowing posture, while ₦489 billion is expected from savings and oil revenue recoveries, reflecting what he described as “the fiscal discipline and prudence” of his administration.

In the expenditure breakdown, personnel costs are estimated at ₦185 billion, overheads at ₦204 billion, and ₦110 billion allocated for social contributions, benefits, and grants.

The governor emphasized that these figures reflect inflationary trends and the state’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

Oborevwori highlighted key sectors earmarked for priority funding in 2026, saying that the Works Ministries (Urban Highways, and Rural and Riverine Roads) will jointly receive ₦450 billion to accelerate strategic road development across the state.

Education is allocated ₦105.086 billion to strengthen access to functional learning, while the health sector receives ₦50.067 billion to improve existing infrastructures across 441 primary healthcare centres, 65 general hospitals, and three tertiary facilities.

The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency is slated to receive ₦20 billion, with the governor reaffirming his commitment to addressing flooding and expanding urban infrastructure in Asaba.

A similar sum is allocated to the Warri, Uvwie and Environs Development Agency, as massive road and flyover projects continue reshaping the oil city.

In the areas of agriculture, energy, and social protection, the proposed budget dedicates ₦10 billion to boost food security and agro-investment; ₦16 billion to strengthen electricity supply through the state’s upcoming multi-grid template; and ₦20 billion to scale up social intervention programmes aimed at lifting more Deltans out of poverty.

Additionally, ₦100 billion is reserved for direct interventions across all 25 local government areas, translating into an average of ₦4 billion each.

On security, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to deploy cutting-edge technology, including drones and advanced surveillance equipment while continuing logistical and financial support to security agencies.

Oborevwori, who is the immediate past Speaker of the Assembly, commended the House for its partnership and urged members to expedite consideration and passage of the budget to sustain ongoing development momentum.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building “a prosperous, secure, and stronger Delta where no one is left behind.”

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor described the budget presentation as an affirmation of the covenant between government and citizens.

He praised the governor’s leadership, noting significant achievements under the MORE Agenda, including strategic flyovers, expanded road networks, improved healthcare facilities, strengthened education, and empowerment programmes.

Guwor also commended the governor for approving the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) and initiating the construction of permanent offices for the Assembly Service Commission.

He assured the governor of the Assembly’s resolve to undertake a thorough and timely review of the appropriation bill, stressing that the Legislature remains committed to people-centered governance, accountability, and equitable development.

The Majority Leader, Hon. Emeke Nwaobi, subsequently moved for the adoption of the governor’s presentation, and the motion was seconded by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Chairperson of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations.

The budget has now been formally laid before the House for legislative consideration.

Free Medicare: Mrs. Oborevwori, You Matter Charity Foundation donates wheelchairs, educational devices to caregivers, others

In a major show of support for children with special needs, the Wife of the Governor of Delta State and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Her Excellency Deaconess Mrs.Tobore Oborevwori, on Thursday, November 27, 2025, donated free medication, wheelchairs, and a wide range of assistive and educational devices to beneficiaries during the flag-off of a free medical outreach for special-needs children and their caregivers in Ughelli, Delta Central.

The outreach organised by the You Matter Charity Foundation in partnership with the Delta State Ministry of Health and the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, featured medical check-ups, nutrition counselling, disability support services, and distribution of mobility and learning tools designed to enhance independence, access to care, and overall wellbeing.

Speaking to parents and caregivers at the event, Deaconess Mrs. Oborevwori made a passionate appeal for an end to the culture of hiding children with special needs, describing the practice as harmful and rooted in ignorance. She emphasised that no child should be isolated or denied visibility, care, and affection.

“It is not their fault. Every child deserves love, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive,”she said. She expressed deep concern over the widespread stigma surrounding Autism and other developmental conditions, noting that many children are kept away from school and medical care due to fear of judgement.

“Autistic people are everyday people who live among us. Autism is not a spiritual problem or an illness looking for a cure. It is a condition that can be managed with understanding, compassion, and the right professional support,” she explained.

The First Lady stated that the state-wide medical outreach is designed not only to provide care but also to raise awareness, confront misinformation, and encourage parents to seek early help. She urged mothers to show courage by bringing their children forward for support rather than hiding them.

Her Excellency reiterated her Foundation’s commitment to advocating for children with special needs and called on families, community groups, and institutions to work together in building a more inclusive Delta State.

Delivering health talks at the programme, Dr. Ifeoma Udeh, Consultant Paediatrician at Asaba Specialist Hospital, warned that about 50% of Nigerian children are micronutrient deficient, citing economic pressure, poor feeding choices, and cultural beliefs as major contributors. She stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and early nutrition.

Similarly, Dr. Bolum-Okolie Angela, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist, echoed the First Lady’s message and urged parents to prioritise education, healthcare, and emotional support for children living with disabilities, noting that early intervention significantly improves long-term outcomes.

Medical personnel were on ground to conduct examinations and offer professional guidance, as the outreach continued the Foundation’s mission of bringing hope, visibility, and essential support to children with special needs across Delta State.

DOPF Lecture Series: New Tax Law to Boost SMEs, Strengthen Revenue System- Dr. Emudainohwo

A University don, Dr. Ochuko Emudainohwo, has hailed the 2025 tax law as a strategic blueprint for inclusive economic growth, capable of repositioning Nigeria for a more diversified and resilient economic future.

He called on stakeholders—businesses, policymakers, and citizens alike—to embrace the reform and contribute to a more accountable and sustainable fiscal environment for the overall development of the country.

Dr. Emudainohwo, FCA, an Associate Professor of Accounting at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, who was a Guest Speaker at the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) 2025 Lecture Series held in Asaba with the theme “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society,” unpacked the rationale, structure, and benefits of the recently enacted 2025 tax law under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

He noted that taxation remains one of the strongest instruments for national development. According to him, to understand the essence of the new tax law, citizens must first appreciate the context in which it was introduced.

He outlined several key factors that necessitated the reform, including Nigeria’s declining oil revenue capacity, which has become increasingly insufficient to sustain national development; a rising population that continues to exert pressure on public services; and lingering economic shocks from the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed the fragility of the nation’s revenue system.

These challenges, he stressed, compelled the federal government to rethink its fiscal strategy and pursue a more sustainable and inclusive approach to revenue generation.

At the heart of the 2025 tax law, he noted, is the objective of reducing Nigeria’s overdependence on oil revenue.

Dr. Emudainohwo explained that the new framework consolidates income taxes and company taxes into a single tax net, streamlining compliance and reducing administrative bottlenecks.

He described the reform as “pro-people,” emphasizing that it was designed not only to boost government revenue but also to stimulate economic growth across various sectors.

“The law supports Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs). Companies with an annual turnover of less than N50 million are now exempted from capital-based taxes and company income taxes,” he stated.

This exemption, he argued, will ease the burden on small businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and promote innovation.

Furthermore, Dr. Emudainohwo highlighted the law’s emphasis on transparency and modernization. By strengthening digital tax platforms, the new legislation enhances accountability, improves efficiency, and minimizes leakages within the revenue system.

New tax law will make Nigerians part of governance, Origho, other panelists opine

By: Celestine Ukah 

A professional accountant, academic, and consultant, Victor Fegor Origho, and other panelists at the 2025 Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) lecture say the new tax law in Nigeria will make all Nigerians part of governance.

Origho and other panelists at the DOPF lecture series titled “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society” identified that the new tax law is for the benefit of Nigerians, especially low-income earners and small business operators.

Origho and other panelists stressed that the tax law is very friendly to all, but it will not be business as usual for defaulters.

They encouraged Nigerians to embrace the new tax law regime as it will promote stress-free financial records.

Other panelists, Barr. Martins Onyem Aghaobod and Barr. Ikpesu Gideon Jade, both expressed strong opinions on the new tax, corroborating the fact that the tax law, which will commence in January 2026, is very transparent to all taxpayers.

**Reaffirms the budget’s ability to accelerate the MORE Agenda in 2026

Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Community Development, Amb. (Dr.) Toyin Agbolayah (JP), on Wednesday, expressed satisfaction with the just presented N1.664 trillion Appropriation Bill for 2026 to the Delta State House of Assembly by His Excellency the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for the presentation, noting that the Governor was very much set to expand infrastructure and socio-economic development in the state in the 2026 fiscal year, with 70 percent of the budget being dedicated to capital expenditure.

Dr. Agbolayah, while highlighting the importance of the budget, explained that the 2026 budget is truly designed to drive inclusive and sustainable growth, develop human capital, accelerate infrastructure renewal, enhance social cohesion, reduce debt exposure, and ensure better resource management.

The Special Adviser reaffirmed that Governor Oborevwori’s administration remains resolute in building a prosperous, secure, and stronger Delta where no one is left behind, while he praised the Governor’s leadership, noting numerous significant achievements under the MORE Agenda, including strategic flyovers, expanded road networks, improved healthcare facilities, strengthened education, and numerous empowerment programs in the state.

He thanked the leadership of the Delta State House of Assembly for their quintessential and astute cooperation with the Governor, even as he enjoined Deltans to continue supporting the MORE Agenda, knowing fully well that the Governor has proven beyond doubt that he is indeed a Governor for all Deltans.”

Tinubu’s Directive: Police Immediate Order Withdrawal Will Be Regrettable – Rtd DIG Yaro Cautions

By: Celestine Ukah 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the immediate withdrawal of police operatives from VIPs will be very regrettable if implemented.

DIG Abutu Yaro Rtd stated this Wednesday, November 26, on Channels TV Politics Today, while analyzing the directive of President Tinubu ordering police redeployment from Very Important Persons, VIPs across the country.

He strongly cautioned against it, as it will come with greater disastrous consequences, adding that the government should do it systematically, even as he admitted that the order of President Tinubu to the police will be implemented immediately.

Just In: Don’t use your news site to malign anyone, DOPF Chair Ebebeli Charges Newly Inducted Members

By: Celestine Ukah

The Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), Mr. Emmanuel Ebebeli, has charged newly inducted members of DOPF not to use their news platforms to malign anyone, especially when the stories are not verified.

Mr. Ebebeli gave the charge on Wednesday, November 26, during the induction of new members into the forum in Asaba at its annual retreat for all members.

He assured the new members that they are equal to other members and that there’s nothing like old and new members, urging them to think like business owners.

The DOPF boss cautioned against flippancy, as any flippancy from any member will not be tolerated, stressing that information and discussions in the forum must be classified. He added that anyone with a blogspot site will not be allowed and warned that anyone whose website isn’t active will be shown the way out.

Members were inducted and welcomed to the forum by the Board of Trustees Chairman, Chief Omafume Amurun, Secretary, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, Publisher and Editor in Chief of areanewsng.com, Celestine Ukah and other members of the Delta Online Publishers Forum.

Oborevwori congratulates Emerhor At 68, Hails His Impact In Business, Politics

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, on the occasion of his 68th birth anniversary.

He describing him as a distinguished Nigerian whose contributions to business, finance and politics continue to inspire many.

Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, extolled Emerhor as a turnaround expert, accomplished venture capitalist and first-class accountant whose strides in the banking and financial services industry remain exemplary.

He noted that Emerhor, an Evwreni-born technocrat and politician from Ughelli North Local Government Area, had earned national respect for his accomplishments as Managing Director of the defunct Crystal Bank and, later, First Atlantic Bank, where his professionalism and visionary leadership repositioned the institutions for growth.

While acknowledging their different political leanings in the past, the Governor praised Emerhor’s unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and grassroots development, adding that his constructive engagement in national discourse had stood him out as a statesman.

He said: “As a politician, you have continued to work for the good of our party by providing leadership at various levels, particularly in Ughelli North Local Government Area and Delta Central in general.

“Your passion for service, philanthropy and community development remains commendable.”

The Governor wished him good health, long life and greater accomplishments as he continues to contribute to the progress of Delta State and Nigeria.