By Sunday Apah
Over 1,000 youths from the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu (U3) Federal Constituency on Wednesday came together to express their endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and Hon. Rev. Francis Waive.
The gathering was a vote of confidence in recognition of their “exemplary performance” in office, with calls for their reelection in 2027.
The event took place during a youth summit at T’Nero’s Place (Sakpra Hall) in DSC Township, Udu Local Government Area, where young people convened for empowerment and political engagement.
Attendees included prominent figures of the Delta APC, such as Hon. (Rev.) Francis Waive, Olorogun John Oguma, Olorogun Eddy Ono-Sorhue, Chief Henry Afure Sakpra, and Barr. Valentine Onojeghuo, among others.
In his address, Hon. Waive expressed gratitude to the youth for their enduring support over the years and committed to ongoing empowerment programs. He highlighted that youth initiatives have been incorporated into the 2025 budget.
“We have future leaders among us—those who will become Governors and Senators one day,” Waive stated. “Our youth empowerment initiative is included in the 2025 budget, and attendees today will be among the first beneficiaries.”
He praised Governor Oborevwori for maintaining the Federal Medical Centre in Udu and voiced his confidence in the governor’s prospects for re-election in 2027. Waive reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu, citing progress on the Benin–Effurun road expressway as a notable achievement.
“I commend my Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his unwavering support. He is a humble leader, and we will continue to back him. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also merits our loyalty and ongoing support to fulfill his commitments,” Waive added.
The lawmaker further called for unity within the Delta APC, seeking collaboration despite any perceived divides between new and veteran party members and appealing for youth support for his own re-election.
“My commitment to excellence is evident throughout my federal constituency,” he declared.
In a conversation with reporters, Delta State APC chieftain Olorogun John Oguma praised the performances of President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and Hon. Waive, urging patience with the governor as he works to deliver on his promises.
“Reelection for President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and Hon. Waive in 2027 will be straightforward due to their outstanding performance. I can confidently say there are no vacancies in Aso Rock and the Government House in Delta; with the youths firmly behind Hon. Waive, nothing can impede their progress,” he affirmed.
During his welcome speech, Chief Ejiro Hope, National Youth Leader of U3 Federal Constituency Youth, characterized the event as “Youth O’clock.” He emphasized that the summit was not a political rally but rather an empowerment platform:
“This is a youth summit, not a political gathering. It is an opportunity to hear from our member, Hon. Francis Waive, and interact with him directly. Numerous employment opportunities have been created for our youth, and we urge continued peace across Delta State.”
Chief Hope presented an award for “Most Friendly House of Representative Member” to Waive, acknowledging his contributions to legislation and grassroots projects.
Others at the summit echoed their endorsement, with Evang. Eddy Ono-Sorhue applauding Waive’s “dedication and diligence,” while Chief Henry Afure Sakpra described him as a “square peg in a square hole,” urging the youth to register to vote.
The summit concluded with a rallying call for unity, empowerment, and the proactive involvement of U3 youth in shaping the future of their constituency and Delta State as a whole.
