Sustain inter-agency collaboration, effective intelligence sharing, Oborevwori Urges Security Agencies

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on security and emergency-response agencies across the country to sustain inter-agency collaboration, effective intelligence sharing, and rapid response to neutralize emerging security threats.

​The Governor made the call on Thursday in Asaba during the closing ceremony of the Rapid Response 3 Exercise, organized by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) through the Presidential Communication Command and Control Centre (PC4).

​Represented at the event by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., Governor Oborevwori described the choice of Asaba as a milestone, noting that Delta State is the first sub-national location outside the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, to host the national assignment.

​According to him, national security is a collective responsibility requiring strong coordination among all security arms, traditional institutions, and citizens.

​”The security challenges confronting our nation today are complex and dynamic, requiring not only courage and professionalism, but also effective coordination, intelligence sharing, rapid response, strong inter-agency collaboration, and the support of all citizens; as such, it gives me great pleasure to be here today as we bring to a successful conclusion the Rapid Response 3 Exercise, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser through the Presidential Communication Command and Control Centre (PC4) and hosted here in Asaba, Delta State.

“This is indeed another audacious initiative to rein-in insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality that have plagued our dear nation for so long.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate all participants for the successful completion of this very important national assignment.

“It is particularly gratifying to note that Delta State was selected to host this exercise which is the first at the sub-national level outside Abuja; this is unprecedented and marks a positive shift in Crisis Response awareness and training.

“This exercise has once again demonstrated that national security is a collective responsibility.

“This understanding resonated in the theme and proceedings of the Delta Security Summit held on 17th June, 2026; II am convinced that this Rapid Response 3 Exercise has provided a solid platform for our security and emergency-response institutions to test their readiness, strengthen operational coordination and improve their capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging threats.

“For us in Delta State, the exercise is particularly important because of our strategic position as a major economic, commercial and maritime hub playing host to sensitive national assets.

“The peace and security of our communities are essential not only to the wellbeing of our people but also to the economic stability and prosperity of Nigeria.

“We are deeply appreciative to the Office of the National Security Adviser for choosing Delta State, and particularly Asaba, the State Capital, as the venue for this important exercise.

“I wish to equally extend my commendation to all the participating security and emergency-management agencies for their dedication, discipline and professionalism evidently demonstrated throughout the exercise.

“It is also noteworthy to underscore that an exercise such as this should not end with the closing ceremony; the lessons learnt, skills acquired, the inter-agencies relationships established and the operational capabilities developed must be further sharpened, sustained beyond today and put to effective use.

“As a government, we will continue to support initiatives that promote peace, security and stability in Delta State; we will strengthen existing collaboration with the Federal Government, security agencies, traditional institutions, communities and other stakeholders.

“We recognize that no single institution can secure our communities alone and that Security is the collective responsibility of all and sundry.

“I urge all participants to return to your respective commands and institutions as ambassadors of the knowledge and experience gained. Let the spirit of cooperation, professionalism and rapid response demonstrated during this exercise become a permanent feature of our national security architecture.

“As we formally bring the Rapid Response 3 Exercise to a close, I am confident that the knowledge acquired, partnerships forged and lessons learnt will contribute significantly to our collective capacity to protect lives, property and critical national assets.

“Once again, I congratulate all participants on the successful completion of the exercise,” the Governor said.

The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Rear Admiral Adedotun Ayo-Vaughon, Director PC4 Office of the National Security Adviser, thanked Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his exceptional support and commitment to strengthening security architecture.

“Your Excellency, we deeply appreciate your gracious acceptance to host the Rapid Response 3 in Delta State, the first of its kind outside the Federal Capital Territory.

“This gesture is a testament to your administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the people of Delta State, as well as your continued partnership with the Federal Government in advancing national security,” Malam Ribadu said.

**As Coach calls for fresh ideas to improve domestic league

By: Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye

Port Harcourt: MFM Basketball Club have set their sights on an unbeaten season after another ruthless display in the Zenith Bank Women’s Premier League, with Head Coach Akinwonjowo Oladele declaring that his side are determined to sweep every major trophy available to them.

MFM made their intentions clear in emphatic fashion on Wednesday, dismantling Bayelsa Blue Whales 77–21 in the opening game of the day at the Basketball Stadium in Port Harcourt.

The 56-point demolition was another statement performance from a side that has made consistency and hard work the foundation of its campaign.

Oladele attributed MFM’s impressive run to the discipline of his players and their commitment to maintaining high standards from one game to another.

According to the coach, the team’s objective goes beyond winning individual games, as MFM are chasing an unbeaten campaign across all competitions.

“The secret to our outstanding performances, day in day out, is putting in hard work and remaining consistent,” Oladele said.

“Our mission is to go unbeaten and win all the trophies this season. We are on course for the Louis Edem trophy, MFM Championship and the Zenith League, where we are about 70 percent through. We are sure of going unbeaten this season.”

The emphatic victory over Bayelsa Blue Whales further strengthened MFM’s claim as one of the teams to beat, although Oladele knows the remaining stretch of the season will require the same level of concentration that has taken his team this far.

While pleased with his team’s progress on the court, the MFM tactician was less enthusiastic about the way the domestic league has been organised in recent seasons.

Oladele noted that the current structure has remained largely unchanged over the past three seasons and expressed hope that the forthcoming leadership changes in Nigerian basketball would bring fresh thinking to the local league.

“This is how we have been going for the past three seasons. I am hoping that when the election is done and we have a new president, he can initiate new ideas for the local league,” he said.

For now, however, MFM’s attention remains firmly on the court, with Oladele and his players chasing an ambitious clean sweep and an unbeaten record that would give their season a historic finish.

Ereyitomi Welcomes APC Elders, Leaders, Stakeholders to Delta South Mega Meeting

By: Celestine Ukah

The Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi welcomes All Progressives Congress APC Elders, leaders and stakeholders to Warri for Delta South Senatorial Stakeholders Mega meeting.

The Meeting which is expected to hold Thursday September 10 at the Brownhill Coliseum 6/7 Elf Road, Ogunu-Warri, Delta will at 10 am prompt.

Hon. Chief Ereyitomi the Warri Federal Constituency Rep Member wished the APC stakeholders a fruitful meeting as they meet in Warri, expressing optimism that 2027 APC will sustain its victory in Deita State and support the Renewed Hope of President Tinubu and the MORE Agenda vision of state.

Those expected to at the Mega Meeting include Former Governor/Deputy Governor of Delta State that are still members of the party, Serving and Former Senators. from Delta South who are members of APC, Serving and Former House of Representative Members. from Delta South who are members of APC

Serving and Former Ministers from Delta South who are members of APC

Former Governorship Candidates and Deputy Governorship Candidates from Delta South who are members of APC.

All Serving and Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly who are still members of APC.

Serving and Former Members of Delta State House of Assembly. from Delta South who are members of APC

Serving and Former Members of APC Executives from National, Zonal, Senatorial, State and Local Government Party Chairmen from Delta South who are members of APC

All Federal Government Appointees from Delta South who are members of APC

The Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, All Serving and Former Honourable Commissioners from Delta South who are members of APC

Serving and former Secretary to the State Government from Delta South who are members of APC, Senior Policy Adviser.

All Serving and Former Special Advisers from Delta South who are members of APC.

Serving Chief of Staff and Former Chief of Staff to the Governor

Principal Secretary to the Governor

Directors-General/Managing Directors of State Agencies, Governing Council Chairmen, Board Chairmen and Chairmen and members of Commissions & Board from Delta South who are members of APC

All Local Government APC Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Secretaries, Women Leader and Youth Leader from the eight (8) LGAs from Delta South

All Chairmen & Vice Chairmen of the eight (8) Local Government Area Councils from Delta South

Former Council Chairmen from Delta South who are members of APC

Ten (10) party leaders per Ward from each of the eight (8) Local Government Area of Delta South

All APC Candidates for the 2027 General Elections from Delta South

All Aspirants from Delta South who participated In the just concluded APC Primaries.

EAS, SSAS and SAs to the Governor

All Leaders of Local Government Legislative Arms of the eight (8) LGAS

All APC Ward Chairmen from Delta South who are members of the APC

All Serving Councilors All Council Secretaries and All Supervising Councilors.

Translate Your Support for APC into votes, Okowa Charges Ika North-East Voters

Former Delta State Governor and APC Delta North Senatorial candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has urged residents of Ika North-East Local Government Area to translate their support for the All Progressives Congress, APC, into votes for the party in the 2027 general elections.

Okowa made the call at the Councillors’ Empowerment Programme held at Ward 7, Akumazi, Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State.

He said the massive turnout recorded at Akumazi and other wards where the empowerment programme had been held was an indication of the people’s support for the APC, urging them to sustain the support at the polls.

“I am overwhelmed by the large turnout of our people. I urge you to remain loyal to the APC and ensure that your support translates into votes for all our candidates in 2027,” Okowa said.

He congratulated the 400 beneficiaries of the empowerment programme and urged them to put the items and financial assistance received to productive use to improve their livelihoods.

Okowa also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for appointing an indigene of Akumazi, Mr Charles Aniagwu, as Commissioner for Works, Rural Roads and Public Information.

He described the appointment as a demonstration of recognition and goodwill towards Akumazi and the entire Ika North-East Local Government Area.

The former governor recalled that he had appointed Aniagwu as his Chief Press Secretary before subsequently elevating him to Commissioner for Information, stressing that the appointments were based on his competence, dedication and commitment to duty.

Okowa assured the people of Ika North-East that an APC administration would continue to give the area due consideration in the distribution of political appointments and execution of development projects.

Speaking at the event, Aniagwu, who received a rousing ovation from the crowd, disclosed that the first project executed by the Oborevwori administration in Ika North-East was located in Akumazi.

He urged the people to reciprocate the gesture by voting massively for APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

Aniagwu explained that the empowerment initiative by the councillors was made possible by increased resources accruing to the various tiers of government from the Federal Government.

He said Governor Oborevwori remained committed to delivering the dividends of democracy across Delta State, urging residents to continue to promote peace and unity for the development of the state.

The APC Chairman in Ika North-East, Mr Emeke Asiwe, described the empowerment programme, organised by councillors across the 14 wards of the local government, as a demonstration of their commitment to improving the welfare of their constituents.

Asiwe assured residents that more empowerment programmes would be organised before the end of the year.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of ₦50,000 each to 400 beneficiaries and the formal introduction of APC candidates to the people.

**Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori For Second Terms

The Southern Nigerian Youth Congress (SNYC), an umbrella body of youths across the 17 states of Southern Nigeria, has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for a second term as President and Governor respectively.

Members of the Congress made their position known during a solidarity march along major roads in Asaba, before converging in front of Government House where their resolution endorsing President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was made known to the Governor.

Speaking on behalf of members of the Congress, the President General, Wiska Monday said the endorsement followed their assessment of political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections and the performance of the Tinubu led federal government and the Oborevwori’s administration in Delta State.

Monday said the Southern region would resist any attempt to disrupt the existing principle of rotational presidency, arguing that the South should be allowed to complete its eight-year tenure.

According to him, the endorsement of President Tinubu was not based solely on regional considerations, but also on what he described as key reforms and policies of the present administration, pointing out that the endorsement represented the collective position of its structures across the 17 Southern states and the 342 local government areas in the region.

He cited the removal of fuel subsidy, efforts to strengthen local government financial autonomy, the student loan initiative and ongoing infrastructure development as some of the measures the Congress considered significant.

Monday, however, acknowledged that some of the reforms had imposed short-term economic difficulties on Nigerians but argued that they should also be assessed against their potential long-term impact on the nation’s economy.

On security, the youth body noted that insecurity predated the Tinubu administration, while commending efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture through changes in security leadership, increased military operational structures and moves towards considering state police.

According to the group, its assessment of the administration and the broader political realities informed its position that the 2027 transition should preserve equity and ensure continued Southern presidency until 2031, maintaining that supporting President Tinubu for a second term would provide a smoother pathway for retaining the presidency in the South.

The Congress also endorsed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for a second term in Delta State, citing what it described as his “visible development” across the state, even as the group pledged to mobilise its members in support of both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the state Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode commended the delegates of the Southern Nigerian Youth Congress for what he described as a strong demonstration of support and confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.

Onoriode said the endorsement showed that Nigerian youths were increasingly recognising the efforts of both leaders in addressing the challenges confronting the country and improving the lives of citizens.

According to him, although the prevailing economic situation remains challenging, the country is gradually moving in the right direction and requires patience, understanding and collective support from citizens.

He expressed confidence that Nigeria would continue to make progress, stressing that the position taken by the youth demonstrated their understanding of the realities facing the country, just as he pledged to convey their message to Governor Oborevwori, who, he said, would in turn communicate the position to President Tinubu.

Chief Onoriode further commended the youths for what he described as their maturity and responsible approach to political participation, adding that the development demonstrated that young Nigerians were no longer willing to be used to manipulate or coerce older generations into taking decisions against their interests.

He also described the endorsement as a call for political equity, arguing that the South had supported leaders from other regions in the past and should now be given the opportunity to retain the presidency.

In an interview with journalists, the Grand Patron of Southern Nigerian Youth Congress and Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Isaac Agbateyiniro, who expressed solidarity with members of the Congress, said Delta State Chapter of the Association Local of Government of Nigeria (ALGON), has endorsed the position of the Youth Congress backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for a second term in the 2027 general elections.

Delta Commissioner Obiodeh, Onwo Pay Condolence Visit To Veteran Journalist, Christy Ichofu Over Husband’s Death

Chief Goodnews Emamusi Obiodeh, Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Delta State, and Hon. Ferguson Onwo, member of Delta State House of Assembly, representing Isoko South Constituency II, on Monday 7 September, 2026, paid a condolence visit to veteran journalist Princess (Mrs) Christy Ichofu to offer sympathies following the passing of her husband, Pastor Patrick Ichofu.

Speaking to the bereaved Princess (Mrs) Christy Ichofu, at her son-in-law’s country home in Uzere, Isoko South LGA, Delta State, Chief Obiodeh, and Hon. Onwo commiserated her, urging her to take solace in God. They prayed for divine strength for the family.

They described late Pastor Patrick Ichofu as a peaceful and friendly man who understood the feelings of others and treated people with kindness. The prayed for the repose of his soul.

Since the passing of Pastor Patrick Ichofu, sympathizers from across the state have extended their heartfelt condolences to the Ichofu family, praying that God grants them the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

Ereyitomi Hails Dr. Agbolaya on his elevation as Distinguished Fellow Nigerian Institute of Management

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives and Chairman House Committee on Petroleum Resources Training Development Trust Funds, Rt. Hon. Chief Dr. Thomas Ereyitomi JP has felicitated the Special Adviser to Delta State Governor Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Community Development, Amb. Dr. Toyin Agbolaya JP on his elevation as Distinguished Grade Fellow Nigerian Institute of Management, FNIM

RT. Hon Ereyitomi praised Dr. Agbolaya’s pragmatic approach and role in leadership especially at the grassroot angle Where’s currently serving as the Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor, saying it’s such a nice and well deserve honour bestowed on Dr. Agbolaya.

The award which is slated for Thursday September 17 is to formally confer on Amb. Dr. Agbolaya a Distinguished Grade of Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM was reflected as a Moment of Distinction in his recognition in leadership.

The event will also serve as celebrating Excellence in Leadership, Management & Service.

The Fellowship FNIM is the highest professional recognition and membership cadre awarded by the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered). Recipients are qualified to use the post-nominal title, FNIM.

Cbm, TAF Africa, D-RAPID Project Organise Town Hall For PWDs, Demand More Inclusion In Governance, Free Medicare

By: Ella Akpa 

Warri: The Christian Blind Mission, Cbm, TAF Africa, and the Disability Rights Advocacy Project for Inclusive Development, D-RAPID, have organised a town hall meeting with Persons With Disabilities, PWDs, in Warri South LGA, Delta State.

The meeting, organised by the NGOs, is aimed at building the capacity of PWDs to demand greater inclusion in governance, access to free Medicare, and other rights.

Speaking at the town hall meeting on Monday, September 8, Mr. Innocent Onyema Alonu, Cbm Resource Person, urged PWDs to work together in unity to succeed.

He urged them to advocate for the inclusion of their members in governance through appointive and elective offices. He cited, Article 9, of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on non-discrimination, and Article 8 on awareness raising.

Mr. Alonu noted that Plateau State has achieved the appointment of Special Advisers to LGA Chairmen on PWDs, and called for the same to be replicated in Delta State.

He added that the Delta State Disability Law has addressed many concerns of PWDs, and that they have also succeeded in enrolling PWDs to access free healthcare.

Dr. Andrew Adaji, Programme Manager, TAF Africa, demanded that 5% of all empowerment and employment opportunities at the LGA level be reserved for PWDs.

He said TAF Africa is a Disability Inclusion Champion that has consistently advocated for the rights of PWDs across the country, and commended the European Union, EU for its consistent support.

The Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Massimo De Luca, advised PWDs to focus on their health as the country approaches the 2027 elections. He noted that there is more than a year and six months left in the current administration.

Mr. De Luca assured PWDs of the EU’s continued support and further engagement with government to improve their welfare.

Also speaking, Mr. Okai Mohammed Siaka, Programme Coordinator, Cbm, enlightened participants on their rights and strategies for survival in the current economic realities.

The Chairman of PWDs in Warri South, Comrade Fatai Onifade, expressed satisfaction with the programme. He commended Cbm, TAF Africa, EU, and other partners for the training, which he said has equipped them to demand better support from government.

Comrade Fatai also commended the Delta State Government for its provisions for PWDs. He appealed for the establishment of a Delta State Commission for Persons With Disabilities, with members appointed from the PWD community. He also requested the provision of access facilities in banks, as well as hearing aids and walking aids for the blind.

The Representative of the Chairman of Warri South LGA, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, and the Supervisor for Human Capital Development, Mrs. Misan Eke, assured PWDs of more government support and inclusion.

Community representatives and other stakeholders were also present during the town hall engagement.

Riverine Infrastructure: Oborevwori’s Road Revolution Transforms Gbaramatu- Clark, Commends completion of projects

Delta State Commissioner for the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructure Development, Chief Ebikeme Clark, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for transforming the infrastructure landscape of Gbaramatu Kingdom with the completion of internal road projects in Kantu and Ijaghala communities.

Clark gave the commendation during a final inspection of the projects, which include concrete rigid pavement roads and side drains, executed by an indigenous contractor, Ponkebi Nigeria Limited, in Warri South-West Local Government Area.

The Commissioner described the projects as a major breakthrough for the riverine communities, noting that residents had, over the years, endured the absence of internal road infrastructure.

He said the intervention would improve accessibility, ease the movement of people and goods, tackle some of the environmental challenges confronting the communities and create opportunities for increased economic activities.

“Historically, these communities have never enjoyed internal roads. What we are witnessing today is a major transformation and a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to bringing development to the riverine areas,” Clark said.

He noted that Ijaw and Itsekiri communities in the area had co-existed peacefully for centuries, expressing optimism that the new infrastructure would further strengthen the bonds between the people and promote socio-economic development.

Clark also commended the communities for their appreciation of the projects, assuring them that the state government would continue to address the peculiar infrastructural challenges of riverine communities.

“I must sincerely thank our amiable Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his interest in the development of riverine communities across Delta State.

“This is not just about roads; it is about connecting our people, opening up opportunities and ensuring that no community is left behind in the development of the state,” he said.

The Commissioner said the projects formed part of the administration’s broader commitment to extending development to communities across the state, particularly those facing difficult riverine terrain.

Meanwhile, residents of Kantu and Ijaghala communities expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for approving and completing the projects.

Those who spoke included Chief Arthur Iyagu, Ibibio Ezekiel, Elder Samson Menekoko, Woman Leader of Ijaghala Community, Mrs Renieri Grace, Mr Okoturu Edwin and Toju Ebitor.

They described the roads as “life-changing”, saying the projects had not only improved the physical appearance of the communities but had also addressed longstanding challenges of flooding, erosion and poor accessibility.

According to the residents, the absence of internal roads had for many years restricted movement within the communities and made transportation to neighbouring settlements difficult.

The community leaders pledged their continued support for the Oborevwori administration, saying the completed projects had enabled residents to experience the impact of government at the grassroots.

Execute Long-abandoned Model Secondary School Project In Agudama-Epie, Community Appeals To Gov. Diri

By: Our Correspondent

Yenagoa: The people of Agudama-Epie Community in Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa State, have appealed to *Governor Senator Douye Diri* to complete the long-abandoned Model Secondary School project in their area.

According to the community, the project was initiated in 2007 by former Governor, *Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan*. Successive administrations also played vital roles, but the project was never completed.

The Commissioner for Education, *Hon. Gentle Emelah*, said the school is a state government-funded community project. He noted that some challenges led to work on the project being stopped.

_”The project is known to government,”_ Hon. Emelah stated. _”It is a community secondary school, and due to some issues the project was abandoned. But government will look into it within a short time and very soon we will mobilize the relevant contractor back to site.”_

The Women Leader of Agudama-Epie, *Mrs. Loveth Ogon*, also appealed to the state government and Governor Diri to intervene and ensure the completion of the school.

She said completing the Model Secondary School would give children in Agudama-Epie and neighboring communities access to quality education without traveling long distances.

Also speaking, the former Youth President of Agudama-Epie Community, *Comrade Monovie France*, appealed to the state government led by the “miracle Governor” *Sen. Douye Diri* to execute the project.

He added that completing the school would enable pupils in the area to access education easily.

Community stakeholders expressed hope that the present administration will prioritize the project and bring relief to the people.