By Sunday Apah 

The Delta Political Forum extends heartfelt congratulations to Olorogun Sunday Onoriode, the esteemed Director of Protocols at the Delta State Government House, as he celebrates his birthday today.

In a statement released on behalf of the group by State Coordinator Olorogun Solomon Obareki and Director of Media and Publicity Olorogun Sunday Apah, they expressed their warm wishes and appreciation for Onoriode’s dedication and service to the state.

They noted that his exemplary leadership has made a tangible impact on the workings of the government, fostering an environment of cooperation among various stakeholders.

The group recognizes Onoriode’s significant contributions to the political landscape of Delta State, highlighting his commitment to public service and community engagement.

“Olorogun Sunday Onoriode has been a steadfast leader in promoting effective coordination and collaboration within our government,” the statement reads.

“As he marks another year of life, we honor his contributions and wish him continued success and fulfillment in his endeavors,” the group stated.

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the former Deputy Governor of the state, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, following the loss of his mother, Mrs. Pinapina Otuaro.

Mrs. Otuaro passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the age of 87, at Group Medical Hospital in Mosheshe Estate, Effurun.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Thursday, Governor Oborevwori offered his sympathies to the Otuaro family.

He encouraged them to find comfort in knowing that their mother led a life filled with purpose and made significant contributions to her community.

The Governor praised Mrs. Pinapina Otuaro as a devoted mother and expressed solidarity with the family and the Ijaw nation during this time of mourning.

He emphasized that they should take solace in the fact that she lived long enough to witness the accomplishments of her children, including Deacon Otuaro’s eight years of service as Deputy Governor.

“We were deeply saddened to hear of your beloved mother’s passing, but we find solace in the knowledge that she dedicated her life to serving others,” Governor Oborevwori stated.

“Mrs. Pinapina Otuaro was a cornerstone of her community, a loving disciplinarian, and a dedicated Christian. Her positive influence touched the lives of many, and she will certainly be missed.”

“We share in your grief during this difficult time and pray that God grants you and your family the strength to endure this loss, while also seeking peace for your mother’s soul.”

On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Delta State, Governor Oborevwori expressed his condolences, saying, “I mourn with you, my dear brother, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, on the passing of your cherished mother.”

By Sunday Apah

At its inaugural Executive Council (EXCO) meeting for 2025, the Delta State Government has sanctioned an impressive budget of over N275 billion for various projects that will benefit all three senatorial districts in the state.

This significant decision was made during the EXCO meeting held on Thursday, chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House in Asaba.

During a press briefing following the meeting, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, described the approvals as remarkable and a strong response to critics of the administration.

Joined by his fellow commissioners—including Mr. Reuben Izeze for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr. Sonny Ekedayen for Economic Planning, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme for Health, and Chief Patrick Ukah, Director-General of the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency—Aniagwu emphasized that Governor Oborevwori is committed to delivering tangible results for the people of Delta.

He remarked, “Recently, we shared that Governor Oborevwori is focused on addressing criticisms through actionable projects. We did not anticipate that his response would be so impactful that even those who are hard of hearing would take notice.

“Today marks a historic occasion as Governor Oborevwori led us in approving over N275 billion worth of projects in a single EXCO meeting, a first in the 34-year history of Delta State.

“These initiatives span multiple sectors aimed at providing real benefits to our citizens; enhancing road connectivity, improving healthcare services, and rejuvenating urban areas to create more livable cities.

“Notably, nearly all the approved projects will receive 40 percent of their funding upfront without the need for the state to incur additional debt, highlighting our fiscal responsibility as a government, thanks to Governor Oborevwori’s transparent and accountable leadership.”

Among the key projects approved is the remodeling of Warri City Stadium, which is viewed as a pivotal move to ensure the state continues to invest in legacy projects.

The list of approved projects includes: Construction of Uruagbesa Oria-Abraka Road (Phase 1); Construction of Egodo-Ogbeinbene Road; Development of Faculty B at Southern Delta University, Orerokpe campus; Building of Amai-Aragba Road; Creation of Inam-Abbi Access Road; Development of internal roads at Ugbolu Hilltop Government Layout (Phase 1); Construction of Umuoshimi Road with branches to Ogbe-Aku and the market road in Onicha-Ugbo; Construction of Okerenkoko-Pepeama; Kokodiagbene Road with a spur to Teiteipur in Warri South-West; Development of Benikrukru Township Roads (Phase II), among others.

The council approved the rehabilitation of Bomadi-Gbaregolor Road, Okwetolor-Okobia-Aragba Road, Ogbe-Isogban Road in Abavo, and various other infrastructure enhancements designed to improve connectivity and services across the state.

Aniagwu also announced the presentation of staff of office to Obi Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area and other notable appointments.

Comrade Reuben Izeze, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), praised Governor Oborevwori for his commitment to providing upfront funding for all approved projects, asserting that no previous administration has demonstrated such dedication to sustained project funding.

Izeze explained that Governor Oborevwori has cleared outstanding payments owed to contractors and has secured the necessary financial arrangements for ongoing projects through the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) model.

Moreover, Izeze outlined the approval for additional storm drainage work for the Koka Junction and Achalla-Ibusa area and noted that enhancements have been made to the design of the cloverleaf at Effurun Roundabout to minimize disruption to local property owners.

On his part, Commissioner for Health Dr. Joseph Onojaeme announced that the EXCO has allocated N1.6 billion for the Contributory Health Scheme, along with a monthly allocation of N100 million to ensure the sustainability of health coverage for residents.

Dr. Onojaeme further revealed plans for a Specialist Hospital to be established at Osubi, which will include a Public Laboratory and Psychiatric Clinic, as well as a complete renovation of the General Hospital in Expan and the Delta State University Teaching Hospital library to increase the capacity for student admissions.

By Sunday Apah

In a strategic move to enhance his media and communications efforts, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has appointed Comrade Lucy Ezeliora, a respected female journalist and executive member of the Indigenous Correspondents’ Chapel (ICC) under the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, as his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity.

This appointment reflects Senator Nwoko’s commitment to fostering gender inclusivity in governance while ensuring robust media engagement to effectively communicate his legislative agenda.

With a proven track record in journalism characterized by professionalism and commitment to excellence, Mrs. Ezeliora is expected to bring credibility, strategic insight, and innovative media management to the senator’s office.

The significance of this appointment cannot be overstated, as it underscores the growing recognition of women in leadership positions within Nigeria’s political sphere.

Senator Nwoko, a proponent of progressive policies, has continually championed empowerment and equal representation across various sectors.

As the Auditor of the Chapel, Mrs. Ezeliora is poised to play a vital role in shaping public perception, improving media relations, and implementing effective communication strategies for the senator’s initiatives.

Her expertise in journalism is likely to enhance the visibility of the senator’s policies and legislative contributions at both the state and national levels.

Part of the appointment letter states, “Ms. Ezeliora has shown remarkable professionalism and dedication in her reporting on the activities of Senator Ned Nwoko.

“Given her expertise and commitment, I am pleased to welcome her to my media team, where she will enhance communication and visibility within the Senate and throughout Delta North.

“With her extensive background in journalism, media, communications, and digital storytelling, Lucy is well-equipped to make significant contributions to the publicity and media strategy of my office,” noted the newly appointed Chairman of the Senate Adhoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft.

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed his determination to implement transformative projects for the citizens as he prepares to celebrate his second year in office.

During his opening address at the inaugural State Executive Council meeting for 2025, held at the Government House in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori outlined his ambitious plans.

He highlighted a series of significant projects planned across the three senatorial districts and encouraged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to expedite the project award process in alignment with his administration’s MORE Agenda.

“This marks our first Executive Council meeting of the year, and we are eager to take advantage of the current dry season to make substantial progress in our infrastructure initiatives,” the Governor stated.

“Today, I want the people of Delta to see our commitment to doing more for their benefit. Our agenda for this meeting is ambitious, and I believe we will set a precedent for our future discussions.”

He emphasized that the proposed projects will benefit all senatorial districts and local government areas, promising significant investment during this crucial period.

“Our goal is to bring joy to the people of Delta, and that is precisely what we intend to achieve. We are advancing our state in accordance with our MORE Agenda, which we pledged to uphold,” he continued.

“I urge all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to prioritize and expedite the contract award processes. With February upon us, we have only a few months left before the rainy season, and I am optimistic that many projects will be ready for inauguration by the time we mark our second anniversary in office,” he concluded.