Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, the representative for Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has initiated an agripreneur empowerment program aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting local businesses in his constituency.
The program was officially launched at the NULGE Hall, located in the Isoko North LGA Secretariat in Ozoro. It is focused on providing assistance to 100 local constituents involved in fish farming and pig farming. At the launch, Ukodhiko, who holds the position of Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, was represented by Hon. Elder Godwin Ogorugba, the Chairman of the Isoko North Local Government Council.
The initiative is designed to provide agripreneurs with essential resources, skills, and financial backing to help them grow their businesses and improve their living standards.
According to Ukodhiko, approximately 50 fish farmers will receive 1,500 juvenile fish, six bags of fish feed, and ₦150,000 in cash support. Meanwhile, 40 pig farmers will each benefit from a ₦500,000 grant to enhance their farming operations and increase productivity.
He emphasized that the program is not limited to the distribution of materials; rather, it serves as a foundation for sustained empowerment that aims to cultivate a new generation of Isoko agripreneurs equipped to drive innovation, create jobs, and foster economic growth within the constituency.
“This is more than just another initiative,” Ukodhiko stated. “It embodies my belief in the vast potential of our people and my conviction that agriculture is essential for sustainable development, food security, and prosperity. We are not just teaching our people how to earn a living today; we are equipping them to create wealth for the future.”
The lawmaker also expressed gratitude to the program’s partners—the Federal Cooperative College, Orji River, and Kinging Logistics and Automobiles Ltd. He noted that their collaboration adds value to the program and creates additional opportunities for participants.
Participants will receive training in fish farming, piggery management, and agribusiness practices to ensure both profitability and sustainability. The three-day program will continue through the end of this week.
Attendees at the event included prominent figures such as Barr. Vote Umukoro, Secretary of the Isoko North Local Government Council; Chief Matthew Amudede, Vice Chairman of Isoko North APC; Prince Uloho Ofiobor; Prince Dennis Presley Obrogo JP; Chief Oke Abughe; Pastor Sunday Elueni; Amb. Sunday Omaduvie; Engr. Joseph Uyeri; Hon. Jerry Obi; Mrs. Joyce Egbo; Hon. Joan Omuyeh; and Amb. Oreva Efenudu.
Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori extended his sympathies on Wednesday to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, following the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.
Leading a delegation to Yilwatda’s home in Abuja, Oborevwori characterized the occasion as one of “mixed emotions.” He observed that while the recent celebration of the APC Chairman’s election brought joy to many, that happiness was quickly overshadowed by the profound loss of his mother.
Accompanied by Delta State National Assembly representatives, including Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Hon. Francis Waive, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, and Hon. Ngozi Okolie, along with his Senior Political Adviser, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, the Governor remarked on the late matriarch’s accomplished life. He noted that she had nurtured a family that produced a professor, a minister, and now the National Chairman of the ruling party.
Oborevwori emphasized that her legacy of discipline, faith, and service would continue to inspire both her family and the broader community.
“We cannot question the will of God. The Bible teaches us that there is a time for everything, including birth and death. Mama lived a fulfilling life and raised her family with great care. Our thoughts and prayers are with the National Chairman and his family during this difficult time,” Oborevwori said.
Delta State is on the brink of significant economic renewal as its commitment to renewable energy gains traction, with the expectation of generating thousands of jobs in rural areas.
This was made known by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who emphasized that the renewable energy efforts of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration will support small enterprises, enhance educational institutions and healthcare facilities, and incorporate rural communities into the broader economic landscape.
During the 14th State-by-State Roundtable Engagement between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Delta stakeholders, held Wednesday in Abuja, Aniagwu highlighted the state’s energy strategy aimed at addressing the disparity between urban and rural development.
“Electrifying rural areas using solar and other renewable energy technologies will help local entrepreneurs, including barbers, hairdressers, auto-repair workers, and dry cleaners, escape the cycle of relying on generators for power,” Aniagwu stated.
“The funds saved from reduced dependency on generators can be reinvested into their businesses, ultimately leading to job creation. This is a clear connection between clean energy and economic growth,” he added.
He noted that reliable electricity would also enhance social services, transforming schools and healthcare facilities, many of which currently face challenges due to lack of power. This would enable essential resources, like libraries, laboratories, healthcare theatres, and pharmacies, to effectively serve their communities.
“Medications and vaccines will be better stored, hospitals will operate efficiently, and schools will transform into hubs of learning and innovation,” he remarked.
Aniagwu underscored that off-grid solutions present a more efficient and cost-effective option for remote areas, as mini-grids would reduce the need for costly transmission systems and minimize risks associated with vandalism of power infrastructure.
He also mentioned that Delta has started implementing renewable energy in selected hospitals, with more projects planned as investors show interest in collaborating with the state.
“Renewable energy is not solely about providing power; it’s also about job creation, safety, and inclusivity,” he emphasized.
“With this initiative, our rural communities will transition from being passive observers to active contributors in the economic development of a stronger Delta.”
… urged other pressure groups in Ughelli South to merge their structures into the USPC
By Sunday Apah
Olorogun John Oguma, the national leader of Ughelli South Local Government Area, has urged all individuals planning to run for governor in 2027 to defer their ambitions until 2031, as the community has collectively decided to support Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for the governorship in 2027.
Oguma who made this statement during a courtesy visit by members of the Ughelli South Political Colonels on Wednesday at his Ovwor residence, urged other pressure groups in Ughelli South to merge their structures into the USPC.
He stated, “There is no vacancy in Aso Rock and Government House in Asaba. It’s Tinubu and Sheriff until 2031. As for 2031, we will take guidance from him, but for 2027, the Government House in Asaba is not vacant.”
He urged the political activists present to connect with all political figures in the area and encourage those still in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The INEC voter’s registration exercise is currently in progress, and APC membership is also ongoing. We must do everything possible to ensure our people are registered. Politics is a game of numbers; the more, the better,” he emphasized.
Oguma called for unwavering support for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, pledging to invest all necessary resources to secure his success in both his first and second terms.
He reflected on the disappointment of losing the governorship election in Ughelli South in 2023, stating, “That scenario will not repeat itself in 2027 and beyond. Those who thought they had won didn’t truly win—it was merely a misunderstanding.”
“With our newfound unity, such setbacks will not occur again. Our goal is to secure over 95,000 votes and to establish ourselves as the council with the highest number of votes in the Delta Central Senatorial District,” Oguma stated
Earlier, Olorogun John Akaruayen Ewenede, Chairman of the Ughelli South Political Colonels, alongside Publicity Secretary Dcn Matthew Kwode, stated that the objective was to introduce the group’s executives to the national leader of the APC in the local government area.
According to the duo, the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) is a disciplined political pressure group within the APC, committed to advancing the party’s progressive ideals in the Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.
In their related words, “The group seeks to strengthen party cohesion, empower grassroots members, and promote issue-based political engagement across the local government area.
“To promote the progressive ideals of the APC by mobilizing grassroots participation, strengthening internal party democracy, and advocating for citizens’ involvement in the ongoing INEC registration exercises.
“Foster policy-driven leadership and build a disciplined, inclusive, and responsive political movement dedicated to the growth of the party and the empowerment of the community.
“Become the leading grassroots political force within the APC in Delta State, renowned for principled leadership, inclusive governance, grassroots mobilization, and the promotion of sustainable development in Ughelli South LGA and beyond”.
They emphasized that the USPC is focused on mobilizing grassroots participation through political education and community engagement, advocating for governance that addresses real issues and delivers measurable results.
“The USPC is rooted in principles of discipline, loyalty to party ideals, inclusive participation across age, gender, and class, as well as transparency, accountability, and issue-based politics.
“Our membership is open to all registered APC members in Ughelli South LGA who align with the group’s vision and support the candidacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
The executive of the Ughelli South Political Colonels introduced during the visit included Chief John Ewenede (Chairman), Sir Sunday Mrakpor (Deputy Chairman), Hon. Collins Mukoro (Vice Chairman 1), Chief Matthew Ogboru (Vice Chairman 2), Prince Koyoyo Urhorho (Vice Chairman 3), Hon. Paul Etaga (General Secretary), Engr. Agberia Ochuko (Assistant Secretary 1), Chief Steven Dieseruvwe (Assistant Secretary 2), Deacon Matthew Kwode (Publicity Secretary), Mr. David Dadi (Assistant Publicity Secretary), Hon. Matthew Oguma (Treasurer), Chief Ubu Jiminyevwe (Assistant Treasurer), Chief Fidelis Tuvata (Financial Secretary), Chief Samuel Oghotomo (Organizing Secretary), Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho (Assistant Organizing Secretary), Mr. Godwin Ewhien (Welfare Officer), Mr. Solomo Orovwighokpeki (Auditor), Mrs. Josephine Aromata (Women Mobilization), Hon. Happy Gbeke (Youth Mobilization), Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple) (Director of Operations), Dr. Ricardo Oguma (Assistant Director of Operations), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Adviser), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Isaac Omafuaire (Ex Officio), Chief Charles Ariko (Ex Officio), Chief Ovis Uto (Ex Officio), Hon. Charles Kwode (Assistant Auditor), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Chief Adviser), Dr. Kingsley Akeni (Press Secretary), and Chief Sunday Apah (Press Secretary), Mrs. Mercy Ugbobor-Ekama (Assist. Welfare officer), Chief Lizzy Djebah Unurhoro (Assist. Women Leader).
Others members of the USPC that went for the visit are Elder Solomon Ala, Sir. John Ebireri, Chief Lawrence Esiso, Chief Victor Onadiemo, Hon. John Ogbare, Oghenetega Ipheghe, Noreen Ughojor, Matthew Ogboru, Emmanuella Oghenede, Ovie Solomon, Hon. Joy Akoyere, Hon. Pastor Aye and others.
The executive of the Ughelli South Political Colonels introduced during the visit included Chief John Ewenede (Chairman), Sir Sunday Mrakpor (Deputy Chairman), Hon. Collins Mukoro (Vice Chairman 1), Chief Matthew Ogboru (Vice Chairman 2), Prince Koyoyo Urhorho (Vice Chairman 3), Hon. Paul Etaga (General Secretary), Engr. Agberia Ochuko (Assistant Secretary 1), Chief Steven Dieseruvwe (Assistant Secretary 2), Deacon Matthew Kwode (Publicity Secretary), Mr. David Dadi (Assistant Publicity Secretary), Hon. Matthew Oguma (Treasurer), Chief Ubu Jiminyevwe (Assistant Treasurer), Chief Fidelis Tuvata (Financial Secretary), Chief Samuel Oghotomo (Organizing Secretary), Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho (Assistant Organizing Secretary), Mr. Godwin Ewhien (Welfare Officer), Mr. Solomo Orovwighokpeki (Auditor), Mrs. Josephine Aromata (Women Mobilization), Hon. Happy Gbeke (Youth Mobilization), Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple) (Director of Operations), Dr. Ricardo Oguma (Assistant Director of Operations), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Adviser), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Isaac Omafuaire (Ex Officio), Chief Charles Ariko (Ex Officio), Chief Ovis Uto (Ex Officio), Hon. Charles Kwode (Assistant Auditor), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief John Ebireri (Adviser), Elder Solomon Ala (Adviser), Dr. Kingsley Akeni (Press Secretary), and Chief Sunday Apah (Press Secretary), Mrs. Mercy Ugbobor-Ekama (Assist. Welfare officer), Chief Lizzy Djebah Unurhoro (Assist. Women Leader).
Others members of the USPC that went for the visit are Chief Lawrence Esiso, Chief Victor Onadiemo, Hon. John Ogbare, Oghenetega Ipheghe, Noreen Ughojor, Emmanuella Oghenede, Ovie Solomon, Hon. Joy Akoyere, Hon. Pastor Aye and others.
Mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America (USA), Hollies J. Winston and his wife, Mrs. Latrice Winston, on Tuesday, visited the Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Delta State, Nigeria, Hon. Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, to discuss collaborative plans for the development of both Brooklyn Park and Udu Local Government Council.
During the visit at the Udu Local Government Council Secretariat, Mayor Winston highlighted the diverse nature of Brooklyn Park, which is home to a significant Nigerian population and residents from various West African countries.
He emphasized the presence of Fortune 500 companies in Brooklyn Park, including Cargill, General Mills, and Medtronic, and stressed the importance of collaboration between the two cities.
Chairman Oyibode expressed the need for both cities to work together on mutually beneficial projects.
Mayor Winston assured his host of the importance of sharing ideas to foster greater cooperation between Brooklyn Park and Udu Local Government Area. He expressed gratitude to the members of the Reconnecting the Great Diaspora (RGD) for facilitating the partnership and affirmed that the collaboration is poised for growth.
Chairman Oyibode gave Mayor Winston a tour of a building named after Brooklyn Park and showcased other ongoing construction projects in the area.
Also, Mayor Winston and his delegation visited Asaba, the capital of Delta State, to meet with the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori
The Governor thanked Mayor Winston on behalf of the Delta State Government for fostering ties between Udu Local Government Council and Brooklyn Park.
The Governor represented by his Chief Adviser, Senator Ighoyota Amori, PhD., assured Mayor Winston that he would appropriately brief his boss of the visit and that steps would be taken towards collaboration.
As part of their visit to Nigeria, the mayor and his team also traveled to Badagry, Lagos State, where they toured historical sites related to the trans-Atlantic slave trade, including the “Point of No Return.”
The remnants of slave trade shackles and artifacts were on display, offering a poignant glimpse into the history of the slave trade.
Mayor Winston and his wife were accompanied by members of the Reconnecting the Great Diaspora (RGD), including Chief Godfrey Edaferierhi, Chief Aruworay Memene, Chief Ochuko Okitikpi, and Hon. Jite Brown, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Government Affairs.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli South Local Government Area, Olorogun Sir Isaiah Kekeje, has stated that the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) is the most formidable political pressure group in the area.
Kekeje made this remark on Monday during a courtesy visit from the executives of the Ughelli South Political Colonels to the executives of the APC in Ughelli South Local Government Area, held at Oginibo.
He asserted that no other political pressure group in the area possesses the caliber of influence that the USPC does.
Expressing delight over the visit, Kekeje stated that, with the caliber of members in the USPC, it stands out as a significant political force in the local government area.
He noted that prior to the emergence of the group, he had consulted with top political leaders, including Rt. Hon. Revd. Francis Ejiroghene Waive, Member of the House of Representatives; Olorogun John Oguma; and Rt. Hon. Dr. Chris Oghenechovwen, all of whom endorsed his decision to receive the group.
Kekeje urged elders not to make frivolous statements of disunity on social media, emphasizing the need for more effective ways to express grievances.
He advised that disputes should be resolved within the local government area without issuing press statements that could provoke conflict.
He encouraged members of the USPC to reach out to political leaders in the local government area to inform them about their emergence and introduce their members and mission statement.
Earlier, Olorogun John Akaruayen Ewenede, Chairman of the Ughelli South Political Colonels, alongside Publicity Secretary Dcn Matthew Kwode, stated that their objective was to introduce the group’s executives to the APC’s representatives in the local government area.
According to both leaders, the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) is a disciplined political pressure group within the APC, committed to advancing the party’s progressive ideals in Ughelli South LGA, Delta State.
In their own words: “The group seeks to strengthen party cohesion, empower grassroots members, and promote issue-based political engagement across the local government area.
“We aim to promote the progressive ideals of the APC by mobilizing grassroots participation, strengthening internal party democracy, and advocating for citizens’ involvement in the ongoing INEC registration exercises.
“Our goals include fostering policy-driven leadership and building a disciplined, inclusive, and responsive political movement dedicated to the growth of the party and the empowerment of the community.
“We aspire to become the leading grassroots political force within the APC in Delta State, renowned for principled leadership, inclusive governance, grassroots mobilization, and the promotion of sustainable development in Ughelli South LGA and beyond.”
They emphasized that the USPC is focused on mobilizing grassroots participation through political education and community engagement, advocating for governance that addresses real issues and delivers measurable results.
“The USPC is rooted in principles of discipline, loyalty to party ideals, inclusive participation across age, gender, and class, as well as transparency, accountability, and issue-based politics.
“Our membership is open to all registered APC members in Ughelli South LGA who align with the group’s vision and support the candidacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.”
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced the immediate allocation of ₦10 billion to address the pension arrears owed to retirees within the state.
This was revealed on Tuesday during a meeting with members of the Pension Board, including the Chairman of the Bureau of State Pensions, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, and Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu, the State Chairman of the Association of Contributory Retirees.
Governor Oborevwori convened this meeting to tackle critical concerns regarding retirees’ welfare, focusing on outstanding payments and challenges associated with the contributory pension scheme.
He highlighted the accomplishments of his administration, noting that a total of ₦36.4 billion has been disbursed for pensions, with ₦1.4 billion allocated monthly for this purpose since he took office.
The Governor asserted that his administration has consistently met its monthly pension obligations without delay. However, he acknowledged the necessity to urgently resolve the arrears that existed prior to his tenure.
“Our retirees are individuals who dedicated their lives to the service of our state. It is only fair that they receive what they are rightfully owed, and ensuring their welfare will remain a top priority under my leadership,” he promised.
To ensure transparency, the Governor announced the formation of an oversight committee tasked with monitoring the distribution of the ₦10 billion fund, emphasizing his commitment to accountability.
He stressed that this initiative underscores his administration’s dedication to the well-being of senior citizens who have served Delta State with distinction.
In response to the announcement, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, the Chairman of the Bureau for State Pension, described the Governor’s decision as a welcome surprise, confirming that the ₦10 billion allocation would provide significant relief to retirees.
He pledged that the funds would be dedicated exclusively to pension disbursements and highlighted that the system is designed to maintain transparency and accountability.
During an interview with reporters, Comrade Anthony Ozu Osanekwu expressed gratitude to the Governor for what he deemed an unexpected and generous move.
“You caught us off guard; we anticipated a far lesser amount than the ₦10 billion you have just approved,” Osanekwu remarked. “I am overjoyed, and I’m certain that this news will bring great happiness to pensioners throughout the state.”
...Affirm Oguma, Oghenechovwen, Waive, Others as APC Leaders in Ughelli South
By Sunday Apah
The Ughelli South Political Colonels, a formidable political pressure group, on Monday, paid a courtesy visit to the executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ughelli South Local Government Area, to inform them of the group’s existence and its activities in the area.
During the visit to the APC executives at Oginibo town Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun John Akaruayen Ewenede, Chairman of the Ughelli South Political Colonels, alongside Publicity Secretary Dcn Matthew Kwode, stated that the objective was to introduce the group’s executives to those of the APC in the local government area.
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According to the duo, the Ughelli South Political Colonels (USPC) is a disciplined political pressure group within the APC, committed to advancing the party’s progressive ideals in the Ughelli South LGA of Delta State.
In their related words, “The group seeks to strengthen party cohesion, empower grassroots members, and promote issue-based political engagement across the local government area.
“To promote the progressive ideals of the APC by mobilizing grassroots participation, strengthening internal party democracy, and advocating for citizens’ involvement in the ongoing INEC registration exercises.
“Foster policy-driven leadership and build a disciplined, inclusive, and responsive political movement dedicated to the growth of the party and the empowerment of the community.
“Become the leading grassroots political force within the APC in Delta State, renowned for principled leadership, inclusive governance, grassroots mobilization, and the promotion of sustainable development in Ughelli South LGA and beyond”.
They emphasized that the USPC is focused on mobilizing grassroots participation through political education and community engagement, advocating for governance that addresses real issues and delivers measurable results.
“The USPC is rooted in principles of discipline, loyalty to party ideals, inclusive participation across age, gender, and class, as well as transparency, accountability, and issue-based politics.
“Our membership is open to all registered APC members in Ughelli South LGA who align with the group’s vision and support the candidacy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
In response, Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje, speaking on behalf of the APC executives in Ughelli South LGA, expressed delight over the visit, stating that with the caliber of members in the USPC, it stands out as a significant political pressure group in the area.
He noted that prior to the group’s emergence, he had consulted top political leaders, including Olorogun John Oguma, Rt. Hon. Chris Oghenechovwen, and Rt. Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive, a member of the House of Representatives, who all gave their nod for him to receive the group.
Kekeje urged the elders in the local government not to make frivolous statements of disunity on social media, emphasizing that there are better ways to express grievances.
He advised that disputes should be settled within the LGA without issuing press statements that could stir conflict.
He encouraged members of the USPC to reach out to political leaders in the LGA to inform them of their emergence and introduce their members and mission statement.
Highlights of the visit included a unanimous endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for a second term in office.
Key executives of the All Progressives Congress present during the visit included Olorogun Isaiah Kekeje (Chairman), Mr. Sheriff Oyibo (Vice Chairman), Mr. Ambrose Oyovwe (Secretary), Mrs. Lizy Djebah (Women Leader), Mrs. Elakpa (Financial Secretary), Mr. Godwin Ewhien (Publicity Secretary), Mrs. Chicha (Welfare Officer), Apostle Peter Abada (Treasurer), Mr. Godwin Soso (Organizing Secretary), Mr. David Dadi, among others, along with the 11 Ward Chairmen.
The executive of the Ughelli South Political Colonels introduced during the visit included Chief John Ewenede (Chairman), Sir Sunday Mrakpor (Deputy Chairman), Hon. Collins Mukoro (Vice Chairman 1), Chief Matthew Ogboru (Vice Chairman 2), Prince Koyoyo Urhorho (Vice Chairman 3), Hon. Paul Etaga (General Secretary), Engr. Agberia Ochuko (Assistant Secretary 1), Chief Steven Dieseruvwe (Assistant Secretary 2), Deacon Matthew Kwode (Publicity Secretary), Mr. David Dadi (Assistant Publicity Secretary), Hon. Matthew Oguma (Treasurer), Chief Ubu Jiminyevwe (Assistant Treasurer), Chief Fidelis Tuvata (Financial Secretary), Chief Samuel Oghotomo (Organizing Secretary), Mr. Isaiah Ahwerhurho (Assistant Organizing Secretary), Mr. Godwin Ewhien (Welfare Officer), Mr. Solomo Orovwighokpeki (Auditor), Mrs. Josephine Aromata (Women Mobilization), Hon. Happy Gbeke (Youth Mobilization), Mr. Simon Umudi (aka Temple) (Director of Operations), Dr. Ricardo Oguma (Assistant Director of Operations), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Adviser), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Isaac Omafuaire (Ex Officio), Chief Charles Ariko (Ex Officio), Chief Ovis Uto (Ex Officio), Hon. Charles Kwode (Assistant Auditor), Chief Frank Ugen (Adviser), Chief Francis Aguonigho (Chief Adviser), Dr. Kingsley Akeni (Press Secretary), and Chief Sunday Apah (Press Secretary).
…Beneficiaries Set to Receive Complimentary Healthcare Services
By Sunday Apah
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, inaugurated the Widows Welfare Scheme on Monday, a significant program aimed at offering financial aid and healthcare services to 10,000 widows throughout the state.
The event, which took place at the Events Centre in Asaba, represents a pivotal advancement in the Governor’s MORE Agenda, focused on elevating vulnerable populations and fostering inclusive governance.
During his address, Governor Oborevwori emphasized his enduring commitment to improving the lives of widows, both in his private and public capacities. He acknowledged the hardships faced by widows, noting that it is an unfortunate situation that is beyond their control, and highlighted the neglect and severe challenges they encounter after losing their primary supporters.
“Widowhood is not a choice, nor should it ever be. Apart from the heartache of losing a loved one, widows are burdened with the struggle for survival. Our administration is committed to enhancing their living conditions and restoring their hope,” the Governor stated.
He elaborated that the initiative aligns with the second pillar of his MORE Agenda – Opportunities for All – and fulfills his promise of inclusive governance, aiming to support the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.
Each participating widow will benefit from a monthly allowance of ₦15,000, deposited directly into their bank accounts. The Governor announced that these payments will begin immediately, with beneficiaries receiving an initial payment of ₦45,000 covering the first three months.
In addition to direct financial assistance, all participants will be registered in the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, ensuring free healthcare access at accredited hospitals and primary health centers in their areas.
“This health insurance is even more crucial than the financial support, as it guarantees that no widow will be denied necessary medical treatment due to financial constraints,” Oborevwori asserted.
The Governor made it clear that the Widows Welfare Scheme is purely non-partisan, embracing all faiths and ethnicities within Delta. He explained that beneficiaries were chosen through a transparent, community-based selection process involving local leaders, traditional rulers, and civil organizations, which verified the claims of widowhood.
He added that the delay in launching the scheme was to confirm that only legitimate widows, particularly those who are elderly or disabled, were selected, thereby ensuring that assistance reaches those who truly need it, instead of individuals who are gainfully employed.
Since the beginning of his administration, over 266,000 individuals have benefited from social investment initiatives, including women’s empowerment, skill development programs, youth initiatives, MORE grant projects, and business aid programs.
The Governor assured that additional initiatives focused on job creation and empowerment for women and youth will be introduced shortly.
“As we work on infrastructure development, it is equally important to invest in the well-being of our citizens. Authentic governance goes beyond physical projects; it involves improving lives and instilling hope,” he remarked.
Elder Isioma Okonta, the Governor’s Executive Assistant on Social Investment Programmes, who managed the scheme, hailed it as a landmark achievement in Delta’s social investment history. He noted that this initiative reflects the Governor’s empathy and commitment to making governance a source of support for the disadvantaged.
Okonta also commended Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, the First Lady, for her unwavering advocacy for widows, describing her as “an exemplary figure of compassion.”
Several beneficiaries, including Christiana Akaluzia, Elizabeth Mukoro, and Mercy Ololo, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Governor for not only providing stipends but also ensuring they have access to complimentary healthcare within their communities.
With the launch of the Widows Welfare Scheme, Delta State has reaffirmed its position as a leader in citizen-focused governance, setting a standard for compassionate and inclusive leadership across Nigeria.
His Majesty, Matthew Ediri Egbi, Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, has congratulated Comrade Obatarhe Ogberetitinor following his recent election as the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Delta State chapter.
In a statement released on behalf of the monarch, Olorogun Matthew Akpogbemre Shaire, Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, along with Olorogun John Okoro, Secretary of the Ughievwen Council of Chiefs, and Olorogun Sunday Apah, Director of Media and Publicity at the Ughievwen Kingdom Palace, expressed confidence in Ogberetitinor’s leadership abilities.
The statement highlighted the anticipation of a rejuvenated NULGE under his guidance, asserting that he is the right person to restore the union to its former glory.
It emphasized that Ogberetitinor’s emergence as president is a testament to his dedication and hard work in championing the rights and welfare of local government employees.
“With this achievement, Ogberetitinor will no doubt make Ughievwen proud because he possesses the capabilities to address the challenges facing local government workers in the state”, the statement reads.
According to the statement, Ogberetitinor’s leadership is expected to steer NULGE toward creating a more equitable work environment for its members.
“We believe that with his vision and commitment, he will foster unity and advocate for policies that will benefit local government employees across Delta State,” added the statement.
As a grassroots leader, Ogberetitinor has been known for his proactive approach to addressing workers’ concerns.
His track record and passion for labour issues have earned him respect and admiration, not just in Ughievwen and Ughelli South LGA, but throughout the state.
The council expressed their enthusiasm about his upcoming initiatives and plans aimed at enhancing the welfare of union members.
“The Ughievwen Kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty, remains optimistic about the positive changes that Ogberetitinor is expected to bring to NULGE.”
“We assure Ogberetitinor of our support in this critical role, as there is a collective hope for a brighter future for local government employees in Delta State.”
The traditional ruler encourages all members of the union and their leaders to support Ogberetitinor in his endeavors, fostering a spirit of collaboration for the betterment of all.
