Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the appointment of Hon. Chief Henry Afure Sakpra as General Manager of the Delta State Social Investment Programme, with immediate effect.

The appointment was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu.

According to the statement, the appointment is in line with the provisions of the Delta State Social Investment Programme Law, 2025, which provides for the alleviation of poverty, hunger and other forms of social deprivation among citizens of the state without discrimination.

The programme is also mandated to improve the socio-economic conditions of Deltans, particularly at the grassroots, through the prompt delivery of services aimed at poverty reduction and alleviation.

It is further empowered to undertake other activities necessary for the effective achievement of its objectives.

The appointment, the statement said, is aimed at strengthening the institutional framework of the programme and enhancing social inclusion and opportunities for all, in furtherance of the MORE Agenda of the Oborevwori administration.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) obliges him to work for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the success of all candidates of the party.

Consequently, he urged Christian leaders across the state to support the party with prayers and mobilise their followers for victory in the 2027 general elections.

Oborevwori made the declaration on Wednesday when the Executive Committee of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Delta State, led by its Chairman, Bishop Abos Willie, paid him a special prayer visit at Government House, Asaba.

The Governor, who attributed his emergence as Governor in 2023 to the grace of God and the prayers of Christian leaders, appealed to the PFN leadership and other fathers of faith to continue praying for the country, President Tinubu and the Delta State Government.

He said the 2027 elections should not be approached merely from the standpoint of political calculations, stressing that God’s will remained supreme in determining who occupies positions of authority.

He said; “I am an APC man. I must work for my President and I must work for my candidates. I will continue to speak for them”.

He urged the Christian community to extend to President Tinubu the same goodwill and support it had shown him, insisting that his loyalty to the President was part of his responsibility as a member of the ruling party.

“If you love me and you believe I am doing well as Governor, extend that love to Mr. President and to all my candidates. That is the truth,” he said.
He appealed to the church to intensify prayers for President Tinubu, particularly for wisdom, strength, good health and divine guidance as he leads the country through ongoing reforms.

The Governor acknowledged that the reforms were beginning to strengthen the financial capacity of governments at the state and local levels.

He cited improved capacity of local governments to execute developmental projects, including roads and health facilities, as evidence that the reforms were yielding positive results.

“Before now, to pay salaries was a problem. To construct roads was a problem. Councils could not even execute projects. But now, local governments can do projects because of the reforms are working,” he said.

Oborevwori said his administration had remained focused on delivering infrastructure and other projects across the state, noting that several projects had been completed and others ongoing as part of efforts to translate increased resources into tangible development.

The Governor also stressed the need for responsible political participation by Christians, observing that politics affects every aspect of society, adding that churches should not completely distance themselves from the political process.

He also appealed for continued prayers for peace and stability in Delta State for the sustenance of the prevailing security situation in the state.

Oborevwori thanked the PFN executives and other Christian leaders for their support and prayers, assuring that his administration would remain committed to good governance, development and the welfare of the people.

He urged them to sustain their prayers for the state and its leaders, saying the continued peace and development of Delta remained a collective responsibility.

“Pray for Mr President, pray for the state. Pray for good governance. Pray for peace and unity. I know God will continue to lead us,” the Governor said.

Earlier, the PFN leadership offered prayers for the Governor, his administration, Delta State and the nation, seeking divine wisdom, protection, peace and continued progress.

Chairman of PFN in Delta State, Bishop Abos Willie, who led the delegation while speaking, commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as remarkable achievements in infrastructure, peace and development across the state, as well as his growing national acceptability.

He said the Christian body would continue to intensify prayers for the Governor, his administration and the forthcoming elections, assuring that prayer centres would be established across the state to seek divine intervention for peaceful campaigns and a violence-free electoral process.

Bishop Willie said the PFN was particularly impressed by the Governor’s ability to manage potentially volatile situations and maintain peace in the state, adding that the Christian body was proud of his administration’s strides under the MORE Agenda.

The PFN Chairman also disclosed that the fellowship had strengthened its structures across the state, with about 4,150 ward officers and coordinators expected to be deployed across the state.

He also disclosed that the PFN had established a College of Theology with over 300 students and was completing a hatchery project as part of its contribution to economic empowerment and development.

The PFN Chairman assured the Governor of continued prayers for divine favour, wisdom and strength, as well as the recognition and development of Delta State at the national and global levels.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for organising the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, and described it as a significant initiative capable of attracting investment and advancing the state’s economic development.

The Media Consultant to Tantita Nigeria Limited, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, has identified the media as partners in Tantita’s security project, and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to protecting oil pipelines and other critical infrastructure in the Niger Delta, while sustaining increase in Nigeria’s crude oil production, thereby increasing crude oil revenue and providing jobs for teaming the youths in Niger Delta region.

This he stated while speaking in sidelines during an award ceremony organized by Blueprint Newspapers in recognition of Tantita’s contributions to pipeline security and national development.

Bebenimibo, who doubles as the Special Adviser to Tantita Chairman, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, noted that the award was another indication that Tantita’s intervention in the Niger Delta is producing tangible and measurable results, particularly noting the role of the media in communicating the company’s sustained fight against oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other forms of illegal activities threatening the nation’s oil industry.

He stated that the importance of the media as partners in oil pipeline protection and the fight against vandalism cannot be overemphasized, noting that Tantita and the media have been working hand-in-hand to ensuring proper communication of the company’s activities and supporting transparency around its operations.

As part of their social responsibilities to the Media, Bebenimibo confirmed that Tantita had built a correspondents’ secretariat in Delta State and was planning to extend similar structures to other states in the Niger Delta as well as establish a facility for journalists at the national level, which is part of the company’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the media and ensuring that its activities and contributions to national development were properly communicated to Nigerians.

According to him, Tantita assumed a major role in pipeline surveillance and protection in 2022, and since then the sharp practices of illegal operators have been squarely matched with the technological innovation of Tantita using drones for surveillance of creek terrains, making it difficult for criminals to withstand the company’s surveillance efforts.

Speaking further, Bebenimibo noted that Tantita has complemented the kinetic approach of surveillance with social investment approach like the creation of over 60,000 employment opportunities for Niger Delta youths, skills acquisition, grants and empowerments for young people and women of host communities as strategies to tackling insecurity and discouraging young people from engaging in oil theft, bunkering and other criminal activities. He added that improved security around oil-producing communities had also created an environment where legitimate economic activities, including fishing and farming, were gradually returning.

He expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among security agencies, oil companies, host communities, the media and private security contractors would further strengthen the protection of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and boost national revenue.

The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and professional development of civil servants, describing them as critical partners in the implementation of government policies and programmes.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, stated this on Tuesday while inspecting the newly completed Permanent Secretaries’ quarters in Asaba ahead of its inauguration on Thursday, noting that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had introduced a number of measures aimed at improving the working conditions and welfare of workers in the state civil service.

Dr. Emu said civil servants were enjoying greater convenience in the state, including a three-day working arrangement, payment of vehicle allowances, access to loans and extensive opportunities for training and capacity development.

“Today, civil servants are seen doing three working days round. That’s a lot of convenience. We have paid vehicle allowances and made provisions for loans for them. We send them on training,” he said.

The SSG, who noted that he personally approves training-related matters, said Delta State had committed significant resources to the development of its workforce.

According to him, the Governor regards civil servants as friends and indispensable partners in governance, stressing that the welfare of workers remains a major priority of the administration.

“Civil servants are friends to the government. The government loves them. Our Permanent Secretaries are driving brand new vehicles,” Emu said.

He explained that the provision of the new quarters was part of a broader programme of welfare interventions being implemented by the Oborevwori administration, assuring civil servants that the government would continue to introduce initiatives that would improve their welfare.

Emu also highlighted what he described as the administration’s efforts to accommodate retired and former civil servants, noting that some workers who had left the system had been reintegrated into government programmes.

The SSG said the administration’s commitment to civil servants was informed by the pivotal role they play in governance, describing the civil service as the implementing arm of the public service.

“Governor Oborevwori is not just for the people. He’s even so much so for the civil servants because he believes that they lay the golden eggs,” Emu said.

Turning specifically to the newly completed Permanent Secretaries’ quarters, Dr. Emu described the structures as elegant edifices befitting the status of the apex administrative officers in the state civil service.

“The entire PS complex are for civil servants. The Permanent Secretaries are the apex of the civil service. We have these new, elegant edifices. We have 12 of them, four bedrooms each, with all air-conditioned and then with all the facilities that you can think of. There’s going to be unlimited power here, 24-7. The roads are well paved and they are well secured,” he stated.

The SSG, however, stressed that the government’s housing interventions were not limited to Permanent Secretaries, explaining that the administration was developing alternative housing arrangements for other categories of civil servants through partnerships with private developers and the Federal Mortgage Bank.

The leadership of APC Ward 9 in Aniocha South Local Government Area convened an extraordinary meeting on 15th August, 2026 to discuss strategic plans for the 2027 general election.

During the meeting, Hon. Joe Adigwe and Chief Nath Igbadi urged all executives to be focused on the forthcoming election, emphasizing the importance of capturing all unit chapters before the polls.

They called upon the Ward 9 Chairman to ensure this objective is met, while rallying every party member to support the party’s candidates.

Executive members who were in attendance pledged their commitment to the ward’s leadership, acknowledging their dedication to securing victory in 2027.

The meeting also centered on extending support to those who have defected from other parties, inviting them to join forces with APC. Strategies for achieving a 5/5 victory were deliberated, and EXCOs tasked with responsibility of sustaining engagement with followers.

A committee was established to facilitate access to NELFUND which is part of the President’s initiatives to assist parents fund the University bills of their children. The committee included Snr Comr Monye Destiny Chijioke, Comr Sunday okonji, Comr Celestine Okofu, Comr kpachie to champion the course.

Leaders present included Hon. Chief Joe Adigwe, Bar Chief Nath Igbadi, Hon. Bridget Modebe, Hon. Chidi Tugwai, Rt. Hon. Ugochukwu Ikeikuni, Mrs. Faith Masigwe, Comr Fidelis Nwadugbo, and the Ward Chairman with EXCO members.

By Celestine Afokobah

The Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Infrastructure, Chief Nat Igbadi, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his commitment to educational and infrastructural development across the State.

Igbadi made the commendation while interacting with journalists after the 30th UBEC/SUBEB Stakeholders’ Meeting in Unity Hall, Asaba.

He said Delta State’s consistent payment of its counterpart funds has enabled the State access its allocation from the Universal Basic Education Commission, which is utilized in bankrolling educational projects.

The Special Adviser also commended SUBEB for completing the perimeter fencing of Ewulu Mixed Grammar School in Aniocha South Local Government Area, which he described as timely, given the increasing security concerns and the need to protect school facilities from trespassers.

According to him, sustained investment in education remains critical to developing human capital and securing the future for Delta State. He therefore called on stakeholders to sustain their support for projects that directly address the educational and infrastructural needs of the people.

Speaking further, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Delta State commended His Excellency for approving the reconstruction and renovation of Ishe Primary School, Ewulu which was dilapidated and abandoned for many years now, and assured that the work on site would be completed sooner than later.

Igbadi also commended the Oborevwori administration for the ongoing infrastructural development across the State, noting that under the MORE Agenda, the three Senatorial Districts of Delta State have been turned to construction sites. He however urged Deltans particularly the good people of Ewulu to be patient as the government is posed and committed to delivering on its promises of the MORE Agenda.

He expressed optimism that the Governor would consider the second phase of the Ewulu Road project, which he said remains a major need of the community.

Igbadi posited that the MORE Agenda is transforming Delta State through educational, infrastructural and other developmental initiatives capable of opening the State to greater economic opportunities both locally and internationally.

The Special Adviser maintained that the Governor’s performance had strengthened his political standing ahead of the 2027 governorship election, and therefore urged Deltans, particularly residents of Ewulu, to support the Governor and other candidates of the APC in the 2027 elections.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the immediate past State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engr. Omeni Sobotie, on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori, in a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Sunday, described Sobotie as a distinguished statesman and community leader whose contributions to the political development and progress of Delta State remained worthy of commendation.

The Governor lauded the Agbarho-born politician for his years of service to the people and his commitment to the growth and development of the state, noting that Sobotie had continued to play significant roles in the political evolution of Delta and Nigeria.

Oborevwori commended Sobotie’s wealth of experience, maturity and dedication to public service, adding that his contributions to political discourse and democratic development had earned him respect across political divides.

The Governor said: “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate Engr. Omeni Sobotie on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

“Marking this year, you have every reason to look back with gratitude to God for a life of service, sacrifice and contributions to the development of our dear state and nation.

“Your commitment to the political advancement of our people and your invaluable contributions to the growth of democracy are deserving of commendation.”

Oborevwori prayed God to grant Sobotie continued good health, wisdom and strength to enable him contribute even more to the development of Delta State and Nigeria.

He wished the APC chieftain many more years of fulfilment, peace and continued relevance in the service of humanity.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the renewed efforts to promote peace, unity and harmonious coexistence among the diverse ethnic communities in Warri and its environs.

The governor, who spoke through the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, at the closing ceremony of the maiden Warri Unity Games held at the Federal Government College (FGC), Warri, described sports as a powerful instrument for strengthening relationships and fostering sustainable peace.

Tonukari, who represented the governor at the event, conveyed Oborevwori’s warm regards and expressed his regret at his inability to attend personally due to pressing official engagements.

He commended the Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, for the vision behind the Unity Games, saying the initiative had provided a platform for people from different communities to interact, compete and build bonds of friendship.

According to the governor, the Delta State Government firmly believes that sports can serve as an important bridge among diverse communities, break down imaginary barriers and promote peace.

“On behalf of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and the Delta State Government, I declare our absolute and resolute support for every community-driven initiative that enhances youth empowerment, cultural preservation and peaceful coexistence,” Tonukari said.

He urged the participating athletes and spectators to uphold discipline, fair play and mutual respect, expressing optimism that the friendships forged through the games would contribute to a more united and prosperous Warri and Delta State.

The Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty King Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Ataneru Igbi II, also commended the Olu of Warri for initiating the sporting festival, describing it as a significant opportunity for reconciliation and renewed unity among the people.

He urged residents to build on the peace initiative beyond the sporting arena and called on those engaging in insults and inflammatory exchanges on social media to desist.

“I grew up in Ekpen Street and I used to say I am an Okere man because there was no difference between Urhobos and Itsekiris. In fact, I spoke Itsekiri more than Urhobo,” he said.

He appealed to the people to seize the opportunity provided by the Unity Games for “total reconciliation,” stressing that intermarriages and longstanding family ties had made the communities inseparable.

In his address, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, said the Warri Unity Games were conceived to demonstrate that the people of the area had far more in common than what separated them.

The monarch said the games would henceforth form part of the activities marking his coronation anniversary, with the first Saturday of the anniversary celebration week dedicated to promoting unity among all those who call Warri home.

He said the initiative was informed by the need to learn from the painful experiences of the past and prevent history from repeating itself.

Reflecting on the early 1990s, the Olu recalled how what was intended as a celebration of the coronation anniversary of his predecessor, Ogiame Atuwatse II, degenerated into conflict and violence, with consequences from which Warri had yet to fully recover.

He noted that Warri once had the potential to become a major national cultural tourism destination through its carnival, long before the emergence of the popular Calabar Carnival.

“Warri desires to rise again, and to rise better than before,” the monarch declared, stressing that the new initiative was designed to take the people ahead of history rather than wait for conflict to dictate their future.