By Sunday Apah

The Delta State Government is urging eligible young individuals to seize the opportunity presented by the ongoing recruitment drive for the Nigerian Army.

During a meeting in Asaba on Monday with Brig. Gen. Wilto Nzidee, the leader of the South-South Recruitment Sensitization Exercise, and Brig. Gen. Unachukwu Unachukwu, Commander of the 63 Brigade, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, emphasized the importance of military service.

Dr. Emu praised the Army’s outreach efforts, noting that Delta State has significantly improved its recruitment numbers since last year. He encouraged qualified youths to take advantage of the recruitment process.

“During your last visit, the enthusiasm was evident, and it was clear that we need our people to be productively engaged, with the military being a vital option,” he remarked. “Since then, we have made substantial progress, enrolling approximately 137 out of the 140 positions allocated to us—an improvement from previous years.”

He also mentioned the establishment of a dedicated committee for recruitment awareness, which includes the Commissioner for Youths, the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), and a representative from the traditional rulers’ council.

“There will be no retreat in our efforts to inform and motivate our communities. Our region has faced challenges such as illegal activities and financial temptations from politics, which makes military service even more appealing,” he added.

Dr. Emu expressed his belief in the value of military training for all Nigerians, stating, “The professionalism and discipline of the military are qualities that can benefit our nation tremendously.”

He expressed optimism about surpassing the state’s recruitment targets this time around and affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting qualified Delta youths in joining the Army.

Brig. Gen. Nzidee, in his address, highlighted the necessity for Deltans to engage in the recruitment process, noting that it is an opportunity for them to contribute to the nation.

He emphasized the importance of filling recruitment quotas, stating that a well-trained and prepared military is crucial to safeguarding Nigeria from both internal and external threats.

By Sunday Apah

The Acting Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, affirmed the government’s dedication to fostering a free and independent judiciary during a special court session marking the start of the 2024/2025 legal year in Asaba.

At the event, Onyeme emphasized, “Our administration places a high value on upholding a judiciary that is both free and independent.

“It is worth noting that Delta State was among the first in the nation to enact the Judiciary (Financial) Autonomy Law, a milestone achieved under the leadership of our Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, when he was the Speaker of the State House of Assembly. Since then, we have taken significant measures to fully implement this law.”

He further highlighted the government’s commitment to providing judges and court staff with the necessary tools and infrastructure to ensure they can perform their duties in a conducive environment.

While congratulating the Chief Judge of Delta State and the legal community on the occasion, Onyeme urged the judiciary to prioritize timely and efficient delivery of justice.

“It is essential for all stakeholders—the Bar, the Bench, and law enforcement agencies—to ensure that justice is administered smoothly and promptly. Remember, justice delayed is justice denied. Our society can only thrive when the rule of law is upheld, and I encourage everyone to work collaboratively toward this goal.”

He concluded his remarks with a prayer for the judiciary, wishing them a productive and fulfilling legal year ahead.

In her address, the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Theresa Diai, described the opening ceremony as an opportunity for introspection and reflection on the judiciary’s past year.

She noted the significance of strengthening relationships between the Bench and the Bar, highlighting the fellowship and camaraderie among judges.

Justice Diai expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support, which facilitated the completion and occupation of new buildings for some High Courts in the Asaba Judicial Division.

She also acknowledged the Governor’s provision of 20 Toyota Prado SUVs for High Court judges.

As part of the legal year festivities, a special Thanksgiving Mass was held at Emmanuel The Saviour Catholic Church in Asaba. During the service, Acting Governor Onyeme reiterated the moral obligation of judges to administer justice with integrity and devotion to God.

“You are called to rely on faith in fulfilling this sacred duty, as divine wisdom is your strongest ally against misjudgment and wrongdoing. I encourage you to seek God’s guidance in all your decisions.”

The Bishop of the Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Elue, commended the judiciary for recognizing the importance of divine impartiality in justice.

“In a democracy, it is the judiciary’s role to protect the rights of both the majority and minority under the law. Always remember that God’s guidance is essential in your quest for justice,” the Bishop advised.

*Unveils Key Projects in Ogulagha, Okerenkoko

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, affirmed on Friday that his administration remains dedicated to equitable development across all regions of the state, including riverine communities.

During the inauguration of the Model Secondary School in Ogulagha, Burutu Local Government Area, and the Faculty Building and Lecture Halls at the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area, the Governor expressed his commitment to fostering development in these areas.

He thanked the residents of riverine communities for their contributions to the prevailing peace that has allowed for growth and development, emphasizing that tranquility is crucial for any community’s progress.

Governor Oborevwori stated, “I commend DESOPADEC for its steadfast efforts. The successful completion of the Model Secondary School showcases DESOPADEC’s dedication to enhancing the infrastructure and economic stability of oil-producing communities.”

He added, “This institution will significantly increase the number of secondary schools in Delta State and will ensure that children in riverine communities have access to quality education.”

He further asserted that his administration is devoted to advancing every part of the state. As evidence of this commitment, the Executive Council recently approved the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Odimodi-Okuntu-Ogulagha Road, spanning 12.1 kilometers, at a cost of N5.2 billion. The contractor is set to mobilize to the site shortly.

“This road is vital for the local economy, and its completion will alleviate the challenges faced by commuters. I assure all residents that our MORE agenda is progressing well.”

At Okerenkoko, the Governor highlighted the unique role of the Nigerian Maritime University in cultivating graduates with specialized skills necessary for transforming Nigeria’s maritime sector.

“This institution has the potential to drive urban development while creating job opportunities for local residents,” he noted.

He remarked, “The Lecture Hall we inaugurated today serves as a prime example of effective collaboration between state and federal governments. I take pride in our ability to contribute to this federal institution, demonstrating our commitment to meaningful development, which is a cornerstone of our MORE agenda.”

Governor Oborevwori stressed the importance of peace for sustainable development and expressed hope that the current harmony would continue, allowing the community to fully benefit from the university’s presence.

He also announced immediate approval for the construction of a road to the university’s permanent site, emphasizing the significance of riverine communities to his administration. He created the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development to further support these areas.

“I assure you that we will continue to enhance peace and security across the state. When there is unity and tranquility, development is guaranteed,” he stated.

In his opening remarks, DESOPADEC Chairman, Olorogun John Nani, highlighted the inauguration as evidence of the agency’s dedication to oil-producing communities.

Member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, Hon. Julius Pondi, praised Governor Oborevwori for demonstrating that riverine communities can achieve comparable development to their upland counterparts.

Former Deputy Governor Barr. Kingsley Otuaro acknowledged the Maritime University’s origins in the Niger Delta agitation and commended the Delta State Government for its proactive support.

The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Emmanuel Adigio, also expressed gratitude to the governor for his substantial contributions, particularly in the form of the newly constructed faculty complex.

By Sunday Apah

A notable former Nigerian senator, Jonathan Zwingina, has reportedly passed away.

According to reports from Naijaonpoint, the former Senate Majority Leader and head of the MKO Abiola campaign during the pivotal June 12, 1993, presidential election, died at the age of 70.

While his family has yet to confirm the news, Leadership Newspaper has indicated that Zwingina, originally from Adamawa State, died on Wednesday, October 2, in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria.

Zwingina represented the Adamawa South Senatorial District and was among the founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Later in his political career, he transitioned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of a pupil who tragically lost his life in a recent building collapse at Eghereka Primary School in Ewu Town, Ughelli South Local Government Area.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the occurrence as deeply regrettable.

He detailed that the incident involved the collapse of an unroofed block of six classrooms, which had been unused for over a decade.

Reports indicate that the dilapidated structure gave way during heavy rainfall, resulting in the death of a primary two student, Ojiyovwin Salvation, while three other pupils sustained injuries.

The Governor expressed his condolences to the grieving family, the school staff, and the other injured students.

He commended the swift response efforts that facilitated the prompt rescue of the affected pupils.

Furthermore, he noted that Local Government Council Chairman, Dr. Lucky Avweromre, visited the scene to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance to the survivors and the family of the deceased.

Governor Oborevwori acknowledged that no words could sufficiently ease the pain of the bereaved family.

He prayed for strength and comfort for them, as well as for the school and the wider community during this challenging time.

By Sunday Apah

On Wednesday, the Delta State Government granted approval for the establishment of a College of Medical Sciences at the Delta State University of Science and Technology (DSUST) in Ozoro, located in the Isoko North Local Government Area.

During a briefing with reporters in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, announced that this decision was made during a State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House.

Accompanied by several other commissioners, including Reuben Izeze (Works for Highways and Urban Roads), Charles Aniagwu (Works for Rural and Riverine Roads), Professor Nyerovwo Tonukari (Higher Education), and Chief Press Secretary Sir Festus Ahon, Osuoza highlighted additional approvals made during the meeting. These included compensation payments for land acquired for the DSUST campus in Orerokpe.

He stated, “The Executive Council has also approved the construction of internal roads at the Headquarters of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Ibusa, as well as the development of Aziken Avenue in the DDPA Low Cost Housing Estate, Boji-Boji, Agbor, within Ika South Local Government Area.”

Further approvals encompassed the construction of phase one of the Utagba-Uno/Ndemili Road and the Eweshi – Utagba-Uno Road, both situated in Ndokwa West Local Government Area. Additionally, projects were greenlit for the main access road to the Federal University of Petroleum Resources in Effurun, along with the construction of Sokoh Estate Road and Okito Street off Airport Road in Uwvie Local Government Area. The council also approved the development of internal roads in Kiagbodo phase one and the rehabilitation of the Odimodi/Okonto/Ogulaha Road in Burutu Local Government Area.

The construction of Odoziobodo/Aninta Street, located off Ezenei Avenue in Oshimili South Local Government Area, has been approved, along with the rehabilitation of Ekakpamre/Ekrokpe/Usiefrun and Orhuwhorun Road in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas. Additionally, the construction of Bezi Road, off College Road in Aladja within Udu Local Government Area, has also received approval.

Further projects include the construction of Uduophori Secondary Commercial School Road in Patani Local Government Area, Ofuegbe Street in Amai, Ukwuani Local Government Area, and the internal roads at Koko Beach, as well as the Ogbogudu community road in Egbema, Warri North Local Government Area.

Osuoza announced that the Executive Council has approved counterpart funding for the Delta State AUDA/NEPAD initiative, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of smallholder farmers in productive land restoration amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19 in Nigeria.

He also noted the appointment of His Royal Majesty, Prince Samuel Akpomieme Fuludu, as the Pere of Ngbelebri-Mein Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area. Additionally, His Royal Majesty, Simon Wajutome Odhomo, Igbogidi I, was appointed as the new Odiologbo of Irri Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area, according to the Information Commissioner.

Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, emphasized that Governor Oborevwori has a comprehensive understanding of the state’s needs, leading to the approval of projects across all three Senatorial Districts as part of his administration’s MORE Agenda, which aims to provide opportunities for everyone. He highlighted that 11 new road projects have been approved for his ministry.

Regarding the deteriorating sections of the Benin-Asaba highway at Ezenei Junction, Asaba, Aniagwu expressed the governor’s urgent interest in repairing the road, acknowledging the significant difficulties it has caused commuters. He mentioned that the contractor appointed by the Federal Government is actively working on the repairs and urged the public to remain patient.

In his comments, Comrade Reuben Izeze, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), confirmed that construction is ongoing on previously approved road projects throughout the state. He reiterated that the new approvals align with Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda for meaningful development statewide.