Chief Solomon Arenyeka, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed profound grief over the passing of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.
The seasoned politician described the senator’s death as both shocking and devastating, highlighting the immense loss to Nigeria’s political landscape.
Through his media assistant, Olorogun Sunday Apah, Arenyeka conveyed his deep sadness on learning of Senator Nwaoboshi’s demise.
The late senator had represented Delta North Senatorial District from 2019 to 2023, during which he left a notable imprint on the district’s political development and governance.
Senator Nwaoboshi was a distinguished political figure, having once served as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.
His leadership roles within the party, coupled with his tenure in the Senate, earned him respect across party lines and among the constituents he served diligently.
Chief Arenyeka reflected on the late senator’s commitment to public service, acknowledging his efforts in advocating for the developmental needs of Delta North.
He emphasized that Nwaoboshi’s contributions extended beyond politics, touching various facets of community upliftment and governance.
The passing of Senator Nwaoboshi has, according to Arenyeka, left a void that will be difficult to fill.
In his statement, Chief Arenyeka called on all stakeholders to come together in unity, especially as Delta North prepares for a new political era following the senator’s departure.
He urged that the late senator’s legacy be honored through continued dedication to the progress and welfare of the people he served.
The APC chieftain prays to God to console the family, friends, and political associates he left behind and grant his soul perfect rest.
…Pass Vote of Confidence in Oguma, Kekeje Leadership
…As Oguma Donates Cash, Trailers of Rice, Cows for Distribution to All Wards
By Sunday Apah
Elders, leaders, and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli South Local Government Area have reaffirmed their endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other candidates to emerge from the party in 2027.
While moving the endorsement motion, Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Edesiri Agiariavwodo, highlighted that President Tinubu’s economic policies are progressively yielding positive results.
He noted that prices of essential goods and commodities are gradually decreasing in favour of the common people across the country.
He also pointed out that the Nigerian Naira is strengthening against the US dollar—an outcome he attributed to the President’s sound economic policies.
Regarding Governor Oborevwori, Senator Agiariavwodo described his infrastructure development across all 25 local government areas of Delta State as “massive.”
He remarked that the involvement of the construction giant, Julius Berger in building flyovers, bridges, and roads across the state underscores the governor’s readiness for the task ahead.
“Human capital development, health, education, and other critical sectors have all been adequately addressed,” he added.
Having scored both the President and the Governor very highly on overall development, he moved the motion for their endorsement for a second term.
He also moved a motion of confidence in Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma as the national leader of the APC and Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje as APC chairman for Ughelli Local Government Area. The motion was seconded by Olorogun Barrister Bernard Jamaho.
Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama, Member of the Delta State House of Assembly, representing Ughelli South Constituency, and Hon. Chief Dr. Lucky Avweromre, Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, also expressed their confidence in the leadership of Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma and Chief Sir Isaiah Kekeje as APC LGA chairman.
They urged all members present to continue supporting the leaders as the government remains committed to the development of the local government area.
Other leaders from across the eleven wards, including Chief Efeviroro Edjuto, Chief Thomas Oduaran, Chief Tina Brown, Chief Francis Aguonigho, Olorogun Samuel Oghotomo, Olorogun John Ewenede, Chief Dr. Richard Kofi, Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple), Sir Sunday Mrakpor, Rt. Hon. Sunday Apah, Chief Ubu Digbame, and Engr. Prince Koyoyo Uhrorho, all pledged their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Chief John Oguma, and Chief Isaiah Kekeje’s leadership.
On behalf of their wards, they promised to deliver all votes for the APC in the 2027 elections.
In response, Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma expressed joy over the confidence reposed in them by the elders, leaders, and stakeholders of the APC in Ughelli South.
He urged all party members to remain united and avoid unnecessary divisions, emphasizing that political leadership is a matter of turn, not force.
Following this, Oguma donated millions of naira, trailers of rice, and cows to party members, encouraging them to celebrate the upcoming Christmas and New Year in good cheer.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma; Senator Emmanuel Edesiri Agiariavwodo, Senior Political Adviser to the Governor; Chief Isaiah Kekeje; Chief Ambrose Oyovwe, APC LGA Secretary; APC LGA executives; Eleven APC ward chairmen and executives; Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama, Member of the Delta State House of Assembly; Hon. Chief Dr. Lucky Iroroefe Avweromre, Executive Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council; Hon. Happy Umukoro, Vice Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council; Chief Ubu Digbame, State Executive member of the APC; Mrs. Loveth Onojesario, APC Women Leader, Delta Central; Chief Adelabu Bodjor, Chief of Staff to Senator Ede Dafinone; Chief Emmanuel Ejenake, Chief Hon. Paul Etaga, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters; Chief Dr. Richard Kofi, former Chairman, Ughelli South LGA; Rt. Hon. Sunday Apah, SSA to the Governor on Media; Chief Efeviroro Edjuto, Chairman of the three Ewu Wards; Dcn. Matthew Kwode, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Olorogun David Uhawha, Chief John Ebireri, Chief Bernard Jamaho, Chief Samuel Buluku, Chief Monday Emuvakpor, Chief Mrs. Tito, Chief Francis Aguonigho, Chief Whegbere, Chief Daniel Idonor, Chief Henry Abizor, Chief Sylvester Uzoh, Chief Sleek Oshare, Chief Matthew Ogboru, Mr. Solomon Orovwighokpeki, 20 serving Councilors, Olorogun John Ewenede, SLG Ughelli South Local Government Council, Sir Sunday Mrakpor, Engr. Prince Koyoyo Uhrorho, Former APC DTHA Candidate, Engr. Ogheneochuko Agberia, Mr. David Dadi, Hon. Matthew Oguma, Chief Samuel Oghotomo, Executive Assistant to the Governor; Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho, Special Assistant to the Governor; Mrs. Josephine Aromata, Comrade Ichipi, Hon. Happy Gbeke, Chief Ejiro Hope, SSA to the Governor; Chief Francis Aguonigho, Executive Assistant to the Governor; Chief Charles Ariko, Chief Elder Solomon Ala, SSA to the Governor; Chief Mrs. Lizzy Djebah Unurhoro, APC LGA Women Leader; Innocent Ejedegba Esq., Chief Oviri Orakata, Hon. Thomas Edafevwiroro, and Comrade Julius Atiku, Mr. Jacob Efereko Aguariavwodo, Hon. Pastor Aye, Comrade Solomon Toka, Gowon Aderho, Hon. Christy Umukoro, Chief Okagbare, Chief Abraham Erhuen, Chief Jabin Doghor, Chief Flash, Mr. Edwin Oghojefa, Mr. Godwin Soso and others too numerous to mention.
Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, who represented Delta North from 2019 to 2023, has been confirmed dead.
This was announced in a Facebook post by the Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, on Friday, 19th December 2025.
According to the post:
“I just lost my senior brother, boss, leader, and friend, Distinguished Senator Peter Onyeluka Nwaoboshi.
While I mourn with his immediate family, the Nwaboshis, Ibusa community, Oshimili North, and the entire Delta State, I pray the Almighty God to accept his soul and grant eternal rest in His bosom,” he added.
Former Delta State House of Assembly aspirant, Olorogun Efeviroro Edjuto, has reaffirmed that Olorogun John Unukebo Oguma remains the national leader of the Ughelli South Local Government Area political class.
He emphasized that unity is the key to victory in the 2025 elections.
Edjuto made this known while delivering a speech during a recent visit by the Ughelli South Political Colonels to Rt. Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive at Obi-Ayagha.
He noted that the old APC members were once warriors of the party, but following defections, they have come together as one.
This unity inspired him to join the Ughelli South Political Colonels to help guide the political direction.
He stated, “The truth is that this is Ughelli South Local Government Area, and we must not allow it to be divided so we can benefit from the government.
“Today, we have one national leader, Olorogun John Oguma, and I sincerely appreciate his efforts in uniting us.
“I urge those still outside the political enclave to recognize the importance of joining us. We cannot afford to be divided.
“Other ethnic groups in the state are united, but we Urhobos have been divided. It is against this backdrop of division that I decided to join the Ughelli South Political Colonels.
“We, the Ewus, can deliver, and I am proud that today we have set aside our differences to unite under one umbrella.
“I am fully committed to the unity of Ughelli South Local Government Area, and I support all initiatives that promote this unity as one of the prominent political leaders of the Ewu bloc,” he added.
No fewer than 250 elderly persons in Delta State have benefited from the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), receiving ₦200,000 each, alongside a 50kg bag of rice and free medical care provided by the Delta State Government through the Office of the Wife of the Governor.
The beneficiaries were supported during the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba. The event was themed “Finding Joy in Old Age.”
The Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, was represented at the event by the Wife of the Governor of Delta State, Her Excellency Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, while Mrs. Josephine Emu spoke on behalf of the Delta First Lady.
In a speech delivered at the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme as a vital social investment programme designed to ensure that elderly Nigerians live with dignity, joy, and a sense of belonging.
“This social investment programme embodies our ongoing effort to ensure that our elderly citizens live with dignity and joy, in a nation that genuinely cares for its own,” the First Lady said.
She explained that since the inception of the current administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has made it a tradition to celebrate senior citizens every December in recognition of their immense contributions to nation-building.
According to her, the scheme supports 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in each of the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA)—amounting to 9,500 beneficiaries nationwide.
Each beneficiary receives ₦200,000, with a total of ₦1.9 billion approved for disbursement by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. She added that ₦50 million was allocated to each state, including the FCT and DEPOWA.
The First Lady emphasized that prioritising elderly citizens, especially during the festive season, is both a moral duty and a source of collective joy.
“They have walked difficult paths so that younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. It is our duty to ensure they live their twilight years in comfort, good health, and dignity,” she stated.
She also encouraged senior citizens to remain active, healthy, and engaged in community and charitable activities, stressing that ageing gracefully goes beyond longevity to include love, care, and respect.
Speaking through her representative, Mrs. Josephine Emu, the Wife of the Governor of Delta State, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, expressed deep appreciation to the First Lady of Nigeria for the compassionate intervention.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the Oborevwori administration to the welfare of senior citizens, noting that the Delta State Government has approved ₦50 billion to offset outstanding pension liabilities at both state and local government levels.
Mrs. Emu announced additional support for Delta beneficiaries through the Office of the Wife of the Governor and the You Matter Charity Foundation, including free medical care, free medications, and a 50kg bag of rice for each elderly person.
Several beneficiaries who spoke with journalists described the intervention as timely and impactful, thanking the First Lady of Nigeria, the Delta State Government, and the Office of the Wife of the Governor for remembering the elderly.
They offered prayers for continued peace, good governance, and development in Delta State and Nigeria at large.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Development, has congratulated Mr. Simon Umudi, also known as Temple, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol on his birthday today, Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
In a statement released to the press, Ahwerhurho described Temple as a dedicated public servant whose commitment to protocol and governance has contributed significantly to the smooth running of the Governor’s office.
“Temple’s professionalism and unwavering dedication are a source of inspiration to his colleagues and the wider community,” he said.
Ahwerhurho also praised Temple’s humility and approachability, highlighting how these qualities have endeared him to both government officials and members of the public alike.
“On this special day, I join his family, friends, and colleagues in celebrating not just his birthday, but also the valuable contributions he continues to make to our state,” the statement added.
The Delta State Government has announced plans to continue the renovation and enhancement of health centres throughout the state in 2026, acknowledging the vital importance of healthcare to the wellbeing of its citizens.
Health Commissioner Dr. Joseph Onojaeme made this known on Monday during a briefing at his Asaba office, where he highlighted the significant progress achieved by the Ministry of Health in 2025.
Dr. Onojaeme stated that Delta currently operates 441 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) distributed across its three senatorial zones, adding that 150 of these centres were upgraded over the past year.
“Out of the 441 primary health centres across the state’s three senatorial districts, we successfully renovated 150 in 2025. We will continue these efforts into 2026 to improve even more facilities,” he said.
He credited these advancements to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, which remains committed to strengthening the healthcare sector.
He further revealed that top-tier medical equipment has been acquired for secondary health institutions state-wide.
According to Dr. Onojaeme, the introduction of modern medical devices has substantially lowered the cost of essential treatments, including dialysis.
“The administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has procured advanced medical equipment for our secondary healthcare centres, which has reduced dialysis fees in government hospitals from N70,000 to N45,000,” the commissioner noted.
He also announced that the State Executive Council (EXCO) approved the purchase of three Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines to serve each senatorial district.
“EXCO has sanctioned the acquisition of MRI machines for Central Hospital in Warri, Asaba Specialist Hospital, and Delta State University Teaching Hospital in Oghara.
“These are state-of-the-art machines that many states lack. We anticipate receiving them in the first quarter of next year,” he added.
Addressing the shortage of healthcare personnel, Dr. Onojaeme explained that the government had recruited qualified staff to replace those lost due to retirement, death, or voluntary resignation.
“To address human resource gaps caused by retirements, deaths, or resignations, the state has employed new health workers to fill these vacancies,” he said.
The commissioner assured that all ongoing healthcare projects would continue to receive attention in 2026 and warned contractors to comply strictly with approved quality standards.
“All current projects in the health sector will be prioritized next year. Contractors must meet the required specifications or face serious penalties,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the effects of recent health sector reforms, Dr. Onojaeme reported a significant decline in maternal and under-five mortality rates, alongside sustained immunisation efforts to prevent disease outbreaks.
“Thanks to these reforms, maternal and under-five mortality rates have dropped considerably. We have also maintained routine immunisation programmes to prevent epidemics,” he said.
He pointed out that the reforms extend beyond infrastructure improvements to include enhanced welfare for healthcare workers.
“Our efforts are not limited to upgrading facilities and equipment; we are also investing in human resources. Approximately six weeks ago, revised remuneration packages were approved, and payments were made two weeks ago.
“Doctors now earn between N500,000 and N1.8 million monthly. This improved pay demonstrates our commitment to the welfare of health workers,” he explained.
Finally, Dr. Onojaeme encouraged residents of Delta State to utilize the improved healthcare services by attending regular medical check-ups and adopting healthy lifestyles to prevent serious illnesses.
“Routine medical examinations and healthy living are essential to controlling fatal diseases. We urge all Deltans to make these practices part of their daily lives,” he concluded.
Olorogun Sunday Apah, the former State Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, has sent warm congratulations to Mr. Simon Umudi aka Temple, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, on the occasion of his birthday today, 16th December 2025.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Apah lauded Mr. Umudi for his unwavering commitment and exemplary service to the state government.
He noted that Temple’s dedication to his duties has significantly contributed to the smooth and effective functioning of the Governor’s office, especially in handling protocol matters.
Apah emphasized that Mr. Umudi’s role as a key aide to the Governor has not only showcased his professionalism but also his genuine passion for public service.
He described Temple as a dependable and disciplined figure whose work ethic serves as an inspiration to his colleagues and the wider public service.
Highlighting Mr. Umudi’s personal qualities, Apah expressed admiration for his humility, integrity, and willingness to support the administration’s vision for growth and development.
He remarked that such qualities have earned Temple respect and admiration from peers, superiors, and others alike.
The former PDP spokesperson further encouraged Mr. Umudi to continue striving for excellence and assured him of continued support in his career.
He also urged the celebrant to remain steadfast in his commitment to serving the people of the state with diligence and honour.
Apah extended warm wishes for good health, happiness, and prosperity to Mr. Umudi and his family.
He prayed that the year ahead would be filled with blessings, success, and the fulfillment of all his personal and professional aspirations.
“May the Almighty God grant Temple wisdom, strength, and grace as he embarks on this new chapter of his life. May peace and joy abound in his heart, and may he continue to shine as a beacon of hope and service to the people”, he added.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Tuesday, officially signed into law Delta State’s 2026 Appropriation Bill valued at ₦1.729 trillion, aptly named the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda.” Alongside this, he also gave assent to three additional important bills enacted by the State House of Assembly.
This approval paves the way for rapid progress, improved security measures, and enhanced social welfare programs throughout the state.
The additional legislation ratified includes the Delta State Social Investment Programme Law, the Delta State Colleges of Education Law 2025, and the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law 2025.
During the signing ceremony, Governor Oborevwori emphasized that the 2026 budget is more than numbers; it encapsulates clear vision, decisive action, and targeted outcomes for the coming year. He assured that the state government would work diligently to expedite development in critical sectors in 2026.
The approved budget of ₦1,729,881,208,779 marks a significant increase of over 70% compared to the 2025 budget.
The Governor acknowledged that although the budget is ambitious, it is attainable. He noted that 70% of the allocation is earmarked for capital projects, while 30% will cover recurrent expenses, highlighting the administration’s focus on infrastructure-driven growth and long-term sustainability.
Reflecting on 2025, Governor Oborevwori pointed out that the state enhanced investments in infrastructure, security, fiscal discipline, and revenue generation. These efforts resulted in a higher internally generated revenue without imposing new taxes on residents.
These gains, he stated, demonstrate the effectiveness of the government’s reforms and its ongoing commitment to fortifying the state’s economy.
Governor Oborevwori further explained that the three new laws are designed to boost social welfare, education, and security within Delta State.
He said the Social Investment Programme Law establishes a legal structure aimed at providing equitable, community-based access to resources and services, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Additionally, the Colleges of Education Law 2025 standardizes the functioning of state colleges, enabling them to confer Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) and degree qualifications simultaneously, thereby increasing their capacity to train more competent teachers.
The Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law upgrades the state’s legal framework to more effectively address terrorism, cult-related violence, and related offenses, aligning with contemporary security challenges.
Governor Oborevwori commended the Speaker, leadership, members, and staff of the Delta State House of Assembly for their prompt and collaborative work in passing the budget and accompanying bills. He also expressed gratitude to stakeholders, cabinet officials, civil servants, and citizens, extending warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a successful New Year.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, noted that the passage of these four bills followed extensive legislative deliberations, broad consultations, and detailed evaluations consistent with the Assembly’s constitutional duties.
Speaker Guwor explained that the Social Investment Programme Law institutionalizes social intervention efforts to safeguard vulnerable citizens and promote inclusive growth and fairness. The Colleges of Education Law 2025 establishes a cohesive structure to improve the quality and efficiency of teacher education while minimizing disparities among state-owned institutions.
He added that the Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law addresses new security threats and rectifies deficiencies in the original law, including clarifying the definition of cultism.
Regarding the 2026 Appropriation Law, the Speaker said the Assembly reviewed the budget sector by sector according to the MORE Agenda before approving the ₦1.729 trillion proposal.
He emphasized that the bills’ assent highlights the strong, cooperative relationship between the legislature and executive branches, unified by a shared goal of fostering a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Delta State. This partnership is expected to significantly enhance governance and socio-economic development throughout the state.
The Ughelli South Political Colonels have extended warm congratulations to their Director of Administration and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, Mr. Simon Umudi, popularly known as Temple, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary today, 16th December 2025.
In a statement signed by the Publicity Secretary of the group, Deacon Matthew Kwode, Mr. Temple was described as a committed executive whose dedication and exemplary service have greatly contributed to the progress and cohesion of the group.
According to the statement, Temple’s leadership qualities and unwavering loyalty have been instrumental in advancing the goals and objectives of the Ughelli South Political Colonels.
They noted that his administrative acumen and ability to navigate complex political landscapes make him an invaluable asset to both the group and the broader state.
The group further praised Temple for his role as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, highlighting his professionalism and meticulous attention to detail in ensuring seamless execution of official functions and events.
His efforts, they said, reflect his deep commitment to public service and governance.
The statement wished Mr. Temple continued success, good health, and happiness as he celebrates this milestone.
They expressed confidence that he would maintain his dedication and continue to contribute positively to the development and welfare of Ughelli South Local Government Area for many years to come.
