Oborevwori, Okowa, Ali Modu Sheriff, others attend Ojougboh’s funeral

**As they also pay last respect to Senior  Apostle, Pa. Osuoza

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Borno State and Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, Friday, attended the funeral of late Dr Cairo Ojougboh.

The funeral which held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor in Ika South Local Government Area of the state, also had in attendance former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin Elue, Member Representing Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Nwokolo and his Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency member, Hon. Ngozi Okolie.

Others include; former Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, former Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, MD/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr Ebenezer Onyeagwu, former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei and Chairman Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Barr. Chiedu Ebie among other dignitaries.

The late Dr Cairo Ojougboh passed on February 7 at 64. Until his passing, he was a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was elected into the House of Representatives under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, where he represented Ika Federal Constituency from 2003-2007.

He held other positions including South-South Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and member of the Interim Governing board of NDDC where he served as Executive Director Projects.

In a homily, Very Rev’d Fr Charles Uganwa called on all creatures to prepare for death on a daily basis, stressing that death was a must for all mortals.

He described Dr Cairo Ojougboh as a patriot, nationalist, statesman, socialite and man of the people who used his life to serve God and humanity and charged his family to draw closer to Christ who has called their father home.

He equally reminded politicians of the need to see their position as a platform to render selfless services, affirming that it was absurd for Nigerians to suffer underdevelopment and lack of electricity after 64 years of nationhood.

He said Delta State was advancing in terms of development and reminded the present administration of the need to do more in human capital development, revival of ailing and moribund industries as a way to tackle unemployment.

In his remark at the service, son of the deceased, Nkem Ojougboh said his father left indelible footprints on the sands of time and pledged on behalf of his family to immortalize him by upholding his legacies.

He thanked all who identified with his family since the demise of his father, Dr Ojougboh and sued for continued prayers for them to stand firm in this period of bereavement.

In a related development, Governor Oborevwori, his deputy, Chief Monday Onyeme, immediate past Governor of the State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and other top government functionaries were also at Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North Local Government Area to attend the funeral of late Senior Apostle Patrick Osuoza, father of the State Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza.

Speaking at the reception ceremony, Dr Osuoza described his deceased father as a man that affected his community, impacted lives and made remarkable contributions in the body of Christ.

While thanking Governor Oborevwori, his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, immediate past Governor of the State Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and others for identifying with him and his family, he assured that all the good things their patriarch stood for would be upheld.

** Urges Deltans To Make Adequate use of PSP members

** Hails Governor Oborevwori For Doling Out Funds For Clearing Of Canals, Drainages, Others

Worried about the forthcoming flooding expected to affect about 31 States in the country, the Delta State President of Private Sector Participants ( PSP) in Waste Management, Comrade Lucky Adjekuko has warned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the state, urging Deltans to make adequate use of PSP members in disposing of their waste and gave the state Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori a pat on the back for making funds available for the opening up of Canals, drainages and rivers.

While saying that the warning about the impending floods should be taken seriously by Deltans, the State PSP President in an interview, implored residents of the state not to dispose their wastes indiscriminately in order not to block drains and other natural water ways already opened up by the State government.

According to the Delta State PSP President; “The warning about the floods this year is real and should be taken seriously by all Deltans. Our people should not dispose waste indiscriminately, they should look for PSP members in their areas to get rid of their wastes properly and failure to comply, you are encouraging the floods by dumping waste illegally”.

Comrade Lucky Adjekuko who commended the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for doling out money for the clearing of canals and drainages, warned against blocking of such places already opened up for free flow of water into the rivers, saying that anything contrary would affect the good jobs already done by the Governor.

“As we are expecting the flooding, my candid advice is for Deltans not to dump refuse indiscriminately. They should desist from the act of dumping wastes indiscriminately into the canals, drainages and rivers already cleared by our hard working Governor. Those residing close to the canals, must not dump refuse into them in order not to block them again. My appeal is for the public to patronize PSP because it is cheaper”, he said.

The Delta State PSP boss also said that; “Normally we usually go out daily to dispose wastes from the residence of Deltans. Since January this year, we have been trying to reach out to those who are yet to register with PSP. We are informing Deltans that you do not dispose waste illegally, dumping wastes indiscriminately on roadside. It is wrong to dump wastes in unauthorized places. We members of the PSP have been working seriously over the years with the Task Force on Environment in order to get things right in terms of waste disposal and collections of waste in the State.”.

He stated that; “Let me advise Deltans, this flood will run from April to November and for us to key into the Programme and to encourage the governments both Federal, State and Local, we need to reach out to residents in the state to stop dumping of wastes indiscriminately because right now, we haven’t gotten 100 percent compliance, but we have achieved about 70 percent, our goal is to attain 100 percent compliance because everything must be done to avoid the avoidable as the floodings are approaching”.

In his words also; “Deltans should not take the flood alert for granted. They should key into the Programme for waste disposing and collections, they should cultivate the habit of keeping the environment clean. The government will not come to sweep your surroundings for you, dumping wastes illegally is against the rules of the Government, it is a sign of polluting the public. Dumping refuse indiscriminately can lead to outbreak of diseases. My appeal to Deltans is stop dumping wastes illegally, dispose the waste in the right way. In our slang “Don’t dispose wastes in a labalaba way, dispose your wastes direct, direct, direct”.

Experts Proffer Solutions to Nigeria’s Leadership Conundrum at Advocate’s 10th Anniversary Lecture

In commemoration of its 10th anniversary, The Advocate Newspaper hosted a public lecture series on the theme “Youth Empowerment and Leadership Evolution: Rethinking Nigeria’s Leadership Recruitment Process.” The event, held at the prestigious Wetland Hotel in Ughelli attracted distinguished personalities from various sectors of society. Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, was the Special Guest of Honour, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Adelabu Bodjor. Olorogun Fred Majemite, a renowned lawyer and former Commissioner in Delta State, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. The event was chaired by Sir Elvis Oharisi, a prominent businessman.

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Professor Enajite Ojaruega, an erudite scholar and Professor of African Literature in the Department of English and Literary Studies at Delta State University, Abraka. Professor Ojaruega shed light on the complexities of leadership, emphasizing that it is a fusion of both inherent traits and external influences. He remarked, “Leadership as we perceive it is a fusion of nature and nurture. Some leaders are born, some are made.” He also stressed the importance of youthfulness of mind, stating, “Rather, we should look at the essence of youth as transcending mere numerical boundaries, to embody a state of mind characterized by vitality, creativity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of progress.”

Drawing attention to the untapped potential of Nigeria’s youth population, Professor Ojaruega highlighted the obstacles of disempowerment, marginalization, and lack of opportunities that hinder their contribution to society. He expressed, “Under optimal circumstances, the composition of the country’s population should ordinarily hint at a wealth of untapped potential awaiting harnessing for groundbreaking and expansive endeavors.”

In his analysis of the flaws in Nigeria’s leadership recruitment and empowerment processes, Professor Ojaruega identified the enduring effects of colonialism, entrenched political interests, and limited opportunities as major culprits. He stated, “This foundational failure of Nigeria’s leadership recruitment processes has led to social stratification, alienation, and marginalization, particularly among the youth.”

The discussion panel featured three additional experts who shared their insights on the topic. Edewor Egedegbe, a prominent social commentator, stressed the need to distribute blame equally among the youth, leadership, and society. He remarked, “We should share the blame equally. Equally.” Egedegbe further highlighted the value drift in society as a root cause of the problem, stating, “For me, that’s the beginning of the problem. When people do not give up, they don’t give up. They give room for excellence. We now thrive in mediocrity. This is what you get.”

Dr. Harvey Igben, another panelist and esteemed economist, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the government to enable policies and their effective implementation. He stated, “The contribution must come from both the private sector and the government. But enabling the environment for the private sector to be able to do whatever it takes to do whatever it has to do.” Dr. Igben also raised concerns about the reward system and policy implementation in Nigeria, questioning the extent of transformation that takes place within correctional institutions.

Edewor Egedegbe, a youth empowerment advocate, urged the youth to change their approach and not rely solely on public sector participation. He emphasized the significance of empowering the mind through programs like his leadership school. Egedegbe stated, “It will only end when the youth change her approach.” He further highlighted the importance of acquiring knowledge through reading and emphasized the values of hard work and humility.

Barrister Ejiro Etaoghene, the final discussant, echoed the sentiment of self-empowerment and emphasized the need for youth to take initiative. He encouraged them to read and acquire knowledge, stating, “Don’t wait to be empowered. Empower yourself. Go and read books.” Barrister Etaoghene emphasized the importance of hard work and humility as key factors for success, urging the youth to be obedient and diligent.

Speaking to Newsmen, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, the Chief Executive Officer of Advocate Publications Limited, expressed gratitude for the challenging yet rewarding journey of the past decade. He acknowledged the support received from friends and associates, and highlighted the platform provided by the Advocate Newspaper to nurture young journalists who have now become renowned names in the field. Mr. Onitsha revealed plans for rebranding and enhancing their activities, promising a more robust and engaging contribution to Nigeria and Africa.

See domestic debt new Governors inherited from May 2023 from their Predecessors and most indebted state

Here is the table and States standing on domestic debt profile inherited from their predecessors as released by StatiSense

DTHA Speaker, Guwor appreciates Media for effective coverage of Assembly activities

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor has expressed appreciation to the mass media for consistently created visibility for the activities of the House.

Rt Hon Guwor gave the commendation in his opening remarks upon resumption of plenary by members after three weeks break for Easter celebration and the Eid-El-Fitr public holiday.

He said “I cannot thank enough the media that have consistently created visibility for the activities of the House”, even as he also commended the management and staff of the Assembly for their unflinching support and hard work.

Guwor who took time to explain the task before the House, expressed gratitude to Members for their unwavering support for the leadership, saying “I will continue to count on your cooperation and prayers”.

The Speaker noted that as critical stakeholders in the government of Delta State, they must take advantage of any available opportunity to advance and support the MORE Agenda of the Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to berth the prosperity he promised Deltans.

“Consequently and in line with the 8th Assembly Legislative Agenda, the bills, motions, resolutions and general actions of the House will be directed in support of completion of ongoing projects, building of critical infrastructure, human capital development, environmental sustainability, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSE), Agriculture and its value chains, women and youth empowerment, digital technology and above all, peace and security.

“Distinguished colleagues, we have the duty to collectively ensure our people are protected from the economic malaise currently ravaging the country.

“We will therefore continue to collaborate with the Executive for social and economic interventions for our People, especially the weak and vulnerable among us.

“As we have resumed plenary, let us strive to conclude on all pending Bills and legislative measures before the end of the first session of the 8th Assembly”, Guwor stated.

The Speaker challenged his colleagues to always squeeze out time to engage constituents regarding government policies and programmes.

Rt Hon Guwor had earlier delivered four messages from the Governor, announcing the nomination for appointments of three Deltans into his government and a bill for legislative actions.

The nominees are the immediate past Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Ifeanyi Egwuyenga to serve as Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer of the Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Bureau,
Mr Jude Emurotu, as member Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC and Mr Edwin Ogidi-Gbebaje as chairman Delta State Bureau for Pensions.

The Speaker directed the nominees to on or before Monday 22 April, submit 35 copies of their curriculum vitae to the office of the Clerk and appear for screening on Tuesday next week.

The fourth letter seeks amendment of the Delta State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency Law of 2015.

Governor Oberevwori said the amendment had become necessary in order to enhance collaboration between the State and Local Government Councils on administration and revenue collection from signage and advertisements in the State.

Also at plenary a seven member committee headed by the Majority Leader of the House, Emeka Nwaobi was inaugurated by the Speaker to oversee activities to mark the first anniversary of the 8th Assembly.

Other members of the Committee include, the Minority Leader, Edafe Emakpor, Hon Charles Emetulu, Bino Owhomano, Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, Perkins Umukoro and Fred Martins, while the Acting Clerk of the House will serve as Secretary.

The House received the report of it Committee on Public Petitions led by the Member Representing Ughelli North 1 Constituency, Hon Matthew Omonade on alleged unlawful dismissal of one Mr Ugorchukwu Solomon from the Delta State Civil Service Commission.

The House adopted recommendations of the Committee that the that the Assembly should discountenance the petition for lack of merit.

It also uphold and affirm the decision of the Civil Service Commission, and bare the petitioner from bringing the petition again before the State Assembly.

The House adjourned plenary to Tuesday next week.

Warri South Council Chairmanship Hopeful, Dr. Agbolaya congratulates Agbeyegbe as PDP Caretaker Chair, others

By: Celestine Ukah

A front line Chairmanship hopeful for Warri South Local Government Area Council in the next Local Government Councils Election in Delta State, Amb. Dr. Toyin Orighomisan Agbolaya JP felicitates the newly constituted Warri South Caretaker Committee Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Johnson Agbeyegbe and the entire Ward exco for their return by the State Working committee of the party.

Dr. Agbolaya Tuesday April 16, hailed the super performances of the Agbeyebe led Warri South LGA PDP, describing the entire system as the right people at the right time Manning the party structure in the area.

While congratulating them for their hard work over the growth of the PDP in Warri South, the Warri South Council job top contender,, Dr. Agbolaya wished the entire LGA and Ward exco more strength and determination to sustain the domination of the PDP in Warri just as the PDP has remained the biggest, unbeatable and strongest party in Warri and Delta State at large.

It would be recalled that Johnson Agbeyegbe was the immediate past elected PDP Chairman before he was returned as Caretaker Committee Chairman as well as his exco and all Wards exco re-given another opportunity to serve the party.

According to the Delta State PDP Chairman, Olorogun Barr. Kingsley Esiso, the inauguration became necessary as it is in line with the party guidelines and constitution, after the extra ordinary National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, the party resolved to give three months interim stay, before the holding of elected party congress.

Media Experts Task UNIDEL Staff On Service Delivery

Media and Protocol staff in the Vice Chancellor’s office, University of Delta Agbor, have been asked not to relent in their bid to adequately promote and project the activities of the institution.

The Vice Chancellor of University of Delta Agbor Prof Stella Chiemeke gave the charge when she received the Senior Special Assistant ( Media) to the governor of Delta State,Mr Fidelis Egugbo and two other communication experts who were in the Institution for a one day Media training programme.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor,Prof. Patricia Mbah, who received the Resource persons on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, said the training was important as it was designed to give the young institution more visibility.

She urged the staff to adhere to the ethics of the media and protocol practice by being objective , factual, and disciplined in their day to day activity.

The Director of Media and Protocol, in Unidel, Mr Edward Akpati Ogude, while introducing the team, said they were experienced media experts with both traditional and modern media knowledge in the journalism profession.

Mr Ogude said the training would enhance the staff efficiency, passion, and productivity, thereby giving the institution global visibility.

The Registrar Barrister Richmond Omagbemi, who also received the team, commended the Vice Chancellor,Prof Stella Chiemeke, for organizing trainings for staff, which will help the growth and development of the institution.

Mr Fidelis Egugbo, who led the resource persons, enjoined the staff to take the exercise seriously as the knowledge gathered and aquired in the training would help to boost their service delivery.

He posited that the institution,though young ,has grown speedily because of the presence of world-class infrastructures, conducive learning environment, and sterling leadership qualities of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Stella Chiemeke

Mr Nweke Stephens delivered a lecture on Protocol Operations in Government, Community and Public Relations while Mr Fidelis Egugbo handled the aspect of News Coverage, Writing and Editing while the lecture on Camera, Photography and Video Editing was handled by Mr Collins Ofuafo.

Responding on behalf of the trainees, the Deputy Registrar in the Vice Chancellor’s office,Mrs ldoye Blessing appreciated the resource persons for the impactful lectures which created avenue for further exchange of knowledge and refreshing of the mind for better service job output.

Oborevwori felicitates First Military Administrator of Abia, AVM Ajobena as he celebrates 75 birthday

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Monday, congratulated the first Military Administrator of Abia State, Air Vice Msrshal Frank Ajobena (retd), CON, who clocks 75 years on April 15.

Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, underscored the significance of the many years of the celebrant’s service to the state and the nation.

He noted that Ajobena’s military career saw him through sensitive and strategic leadership positions in the Airforce.

The Governor said: “AVM Ajobena served the nation meritoriously with his wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experience.

“He is a man known to speak truth to power and we can’t thank him enough for his contributions as a member of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate our father and leader, Air Vice Marshal Frank Ajobena (CON) (retd), on this momentous occasion of his 75th birth anniversary.

“As you celebrate this anniversary, it is my prayer that the Almighty God would grant you longer life in good health”.