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.

The Executive Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, Hon. C.S. Possible Ajede, today conducted a valedictory service in honour of the former Vice Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, Late Hon. Mrs. Onyenye Veronica Egbune.

The valedictory service brought together council officials, family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers who gathered to pay their final respects to the former Vice Chairman of the Council.

Barr. Ajede, in his emotional tribute, described the late Onyenye Veronica Egbune as a woman who was deeply dedicated to service and lived a life marked by humility, selflessness, and commitment to the people.

He commended her contributions to the development of Ukwuani LGA, noting that her legacy of service would continue to be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

Barr. Ajede urged the children to take solace in their mother’s good legacy even in their grief, as he prayed that God would grant the former Vice Chairman eternal repose in the bosom of the Lord.

Highlights of the brief valedictory service included praises, tributes, prayers, and reflections on the life and times of the late Hon. Mrs. Onyenye Veronica Egbune.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his Bayelsa counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, and former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, on Saturday joined family members, friends and political associates to bid farewell to the late Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou.

The funeral service, held at Akugbene Town in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, attracted an array of political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries who gathered to honour the memory of the deceased.

Prince Penawou, who died at the age of 104, was the father of the Delta State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Prince Kelly Penawou, and Chief Joseph Penawou, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Marine Engineering Services Limited.

The presence of the former President, the two serving governors and the former Delta governor underscored the prominence of the Penawou family and the extensive relationships built by the deceased and his family over the years.

Also in attendance were former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; former Senator James Manager; Hon. Nicholas Mutu; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Managing Director of Renaissance Africa Energy, Mr. Tony Attah; Seplat Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Effiong Okon; and several other political leaders and public office holders.

The gathering provided an opportunity for dignitaries, family members and other mourners to offer prayers and condolences to the Penawou family, while celebrating the life and legacy of a man who lived for more than a century.

The funeral rites culminated in a solemn celebration of the deceased’s remarkable life, with family members and dignitaries expressing gratitude for the privilege of sharing in his long and impactful journey.

Prince Penawou’s passing marked the end of a remarkable 104-year journey, leaving behind a legacy remembered by his family, community and the many people whose lives he touched.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, his wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday joined other dignitaries at the funeral service of late Mrs. Felicia Oritseolumewo Arenyeka, mother of the Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Solomon Arenyeka.

The funeral service was held at the First Baptist Church, Warri, and attracted political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members and sympathisers who gathered to pay their last respect to the deceased and console the Arenyeka family.

Also in attendance were wife of the Deputy Governor, Lady Catherine Onyeme, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Senator Ede Dafinone; Hon. Nicholas Mutu; Hon. Francis Waive and other prominent political and public figures.

In his exhortation titled, “Life’s Practical Challenges to Christians and Office Holders,” the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Warri, Rev. Jesse Okoroji Jnr., described the funeral as an occasion not only to mourn the deceased but also to celebrate a life that had positively impacted those around her.

The cleric described the late Mrs. Arenyeka as “a woman of songs,” noting that her life represented beauty, inspiration and positive influence to her family and community.

He urged Christians and those entrusted with leadership positions to understand the practical challenges associated with life, leadership and service, stressing the need for humility, steadfastness and faithfulness in the discharge of responsibilities.

Rev. Okoroji commended Governor Oborevwori for what he described as remarkable development strides across Delta State, particularly the transformation of Warri through ongoing urban renewal and infrastructure projects.

He specifically lauded the governor for the Warri Urban Transformation programme, citing the construction of massive flyovers, bridges and other urban infrastructure.

According to him, the transformation taking place in Warri was beginning to give the city a new outlook, likening the emerging landscape to Dubai.

He urged Governor Oborevwori not to relent in his efforts to reposition Warri and the state for sustainable development and prosperity.

The pastor also expressed appreciation to the governor for his intervention on the Warri-Sapele-Benin Highway, while appealing to the contractor handling the project to accelerate the pace of work.

He said expediting the project would bring much-needed relief to motorists, commuters and residents who depend on the highway as a major transportation corridor.

Rev. Okoroji also commended the Governor for the prevailing peace in Delta State, praying that the atmosphere of peace, unity and security would continue to prevail across the state.

He stressed that sustainable development could only thrive in an environment where peace and security were guaranteed.

The service provided an opportunity for the gathering to reflect on the inevitability of death, the responsibilities of leadership and the enduring impact of a life well lived, even as the Arenyeka family received condolences from dignitaries and sympathisers.

The late Mrs. Arenyeka was remembered as a woman whose life and values left lasting impressions on her family and those who encountered her.

The President-General of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), Chief Amechi Asugwuni, has reaffirmed the commitment of the apex socio-cultural body of the Ndokwa Nation to strengthening collaboration with neighbouring ethnic groups as part of efforts to promote peace, unity and sustainable development across Delta State.

Chief Asugwuni made this known when members of the Aniocha/Oshimili Elders Association, popularly known as Izu-Ikei, paid a courtesy visit to the executive committee of the NNU at Ndokwa House in Kwale, headquarters of Ndokwa West Local Government Area.

Welcoming the delegation, the NNU President-General described the visit as a journey of peace, understanding and unity, noting that the association’s recognition of the Ndokwa Nation was a positive step towards building stronger ties among the various ethnic nationalities in Delta North and the state at large.

“As an organisation, NNU believes strongly in unity, and such unity must be demonstrated through meaningful engagement and collaboration. Your visit today is a recognition of the Ndokwa Nation as a whole, and we deeply appreciate it,” Asugwuni said.

He noted that the age and experience of the visiting elders symbolised wisdom and leadership, adding that their presence would further enhance efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among communities.

According to him, the NNU is committed to building stronger relationships with neighbouring communities and intends to commence consultations with major towns and stakeholders across Delta North to deepen cooperation and address common concerns affecting the people.

“We must bring our experiences from different fields to bear in solving our collective challenges. Delta North should begin to identify its common problems and utilise its shared values to promote progress and development,” he said.

Chief Asugwuni further stated that the request for collaboration by the Aniocha/Oshimili elders aligns with the aspirations of the Ndokwa people, assuring that the visit would be reciprocated.

He expressed support for greater cooperation among the seven ethnic nationalities in Delta State, stressing that a united front would provide a stronger platform for addressing developmental issues.

“We support the convergence of all the seven ethnic nationalities in Delta State to chart a better course for our people. Let us begin with a Delta North summit that will provide a platform for dialogue, understanding and collective action,” he added.

The NNU President-General thanked the elders for the visit and reiterated the union’s commitment to fostering peace, unity and inclusive development.

Earlier, the leader of the Aniocha/Oshimili Elders Association (Izu-Ikei), Prince Clement Okonjo, said the organisation was established to promote peace, unity and collective advancement among the people of Anioma.

He expressed concern that Anioma people were not making sufficient progress in some areas of development and representation, stressing the need for greater cooperation among communities in Delta North.

“We are here to introduce ourselves as a registered organisation dedicated to promoting peace and unity. Whenever issues affect our people, we should be able to join hands to pursue common interests,” Okonjo said.

He emphasised that the association is non-partisan and not affiliated with any political party but would not remain silent on matters affecting the welfare and progress of Anioma people.

“Our visit is to seek collaboration in our quest to build a united and progressive Anioma Nation. There is a need for stronger unity in Delta North so that issues affecting our people can be properly articulated and effectively addressed,” he added.

The visit ended with both organisations expressing readiness to work together towards strengthening unity, advancing common interests and promoting lasting peace and development across Delta North and Delta State.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated 16-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson on his historic gold medal triumph at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos.

Esiovwa-Thompson, an indigene of Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area of the State, made history by winning Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s Under-23 epee event at the championship.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori commended the young fencer for his emergence, describing his feat as a remarkable achievement that had brought honour and pride to Delta State and Nigeria.

The Governor hailed Esiovwa-Thompson for his exceptional talent, determination and composure, particularly his ability to overcome more experienced opponents on his way to the historic victory.

Competing for Nigeria for the first time after switching allegiance from England, the 16-year-old produced an impressive run, defeating three Indian opponents en route to the final.

He crowned his performance with a commanding 15-5 victory over Asian champion Lokesh Verma of India in the final, while India’s Godwin Natarajan and Ashwini Shaurya settled for bronze medals.

Esiovwa-Thompson had earlier gone unbeaten in Pool 4 to secure a bye into the round of 16.

He subsequently defeated South Africa’s Mathobela 15-7 before overpowering an Indian opponent 15-2 in the quarter-final.
In the semi-final, he overcame another strong challenge from India’s Ashwini Shaurya, edging him 15-11 to book his place in the final.

Governor Oborevwori said the feat was a testament to the potential of young Deltans when provided with the right environment, encouragement and opportunities to excel.

He praised the fencer’s family, coaches and all those who had contributed to his development, urging Esiovwa-Thompson to remain focused and continue striving for greater accomplishments on the international stage.

Oborevwori assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives that promote youth development and sports excellence, noting that the achievements of young athletes like Esiovwa-Thompson would inspire a new generation of Deltan youths.

The Governor wished the young fencer more victories and greater laurels in his sporting career, urging him to remain a worthy ambassador of Delta State and Nigeria.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Major General Everest Okoro, to sustain proactive security measures and collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives, property and critical economic assets in the Niger Delta.

Oborevwori gave the charge on Tuesday when he received Okoro, who is also the Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, on a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.

The governor congratulated him on his appointment, describing 6 Division as a strategic operational formation with a critical role in maintaining peace and security across the region.

“I congratulate you on your new posting as the GOC 6 Division. This is a very strategic operational division. I pray for your guidance, wisdom and success during your time here,” Oborevwori said, assuring the Army chief of the continued support and cooperation of the Delta State Government.

He said the peace in Delta was largely the result of sustained collaboration between the state government and security agencies, stressing that the state’s strategic position as a major oil-producing state made its security crucial to Nigeria’s economic stability.

“Delta State is very, very key to the economy of Nigeria, and we rely on the security agencies to do their work because the peace we are enjoying today is the result of collaboration between the state and the security agencies,” he said.

Oborevwori commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for their efforts in safeguarding the state, noting that his administration had continued to provide infrastructure and logistics to enhance their operational capacity.

He disclosed that the government recently constructed one-unit flats at the Amphibious Army Barracks in Agbor and had provided sustained logistical support to the 63 Brigade.

“This is just one of our initiatives among others to support the Nigerian Army. We assure you that we will continue to give you support and collaborate with the Nigerian Army for a safer and more prosperous region,” the governor said.

He stressed the strong link between security and economic development, noting that investments and businesses could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.

“If this region is safe, the economy will go up. If there is unrest in this region, the economy will go down,” he said, urging the new GOC to be proactive and decisive in tackling criminal elements.

The governor, who recalled his previous involvement with the Presidential Amnesty Programme and his close working relationship with security agencies in the Niger Delta, said his relationship with the military remained cordial. “I want to assure you that we will continue to work together,” he added.

Earlier, Major General Okoro said the visit was part of his familiarisation tour of military formations and units under his command following his assumption of duty.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for what he described as purposeful leadership and strong support for Delta’s security architecture, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, welfare and economic development.

Okoro said Delta’s strategic location, oil and gas infrastructure, waterways and other critical national assets made the state important to Nigeria’s economic and energy security.

He said the protection of critical national assets and the security of states within the Division’s area of responsibility were therefore among his priorities.

He said credible intelligence, realistic training and close coordination among security agencies and other stakeholders were essential to effectively address security threats.

Okoro said his vision was to safeguard critical national assets, defeat threats within the Division’s area of responsibility and accomplish assigned missions through disciplined leadership, realistic training and seamless joint operations.

He commended the cordial relationship between the Delta Government and the Nigerian Army, particularly the 63 Brigade, and sought its sustenance.

By Celestine Afokobah

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) have been commended for fencing Ewulu (Mixed) Grammar School.

The commendation was made by the President-General of the Old Students Association, Mr Godwin Moemeka.

Moemeka, in a letter jointly signed by the Association’s Secretary-General, Mr Jude Asem, said the fencing came at the right time.

He said the project would enhance the security of students and discourage trespass by farmers, into the school premises.

According to the association, the school had faced several challenges before the fencing project was undertaken.

These included trespass by farmers, inadequate security, and shortages of teaching and non-teaching staff.

The association, in a brief retrospect, said Ewulu (Mixed) Grammar School was established in 1978 through communal efforts before the then Bendel State Government took over its management.

It added that the school had produced many students who became worthy ambassadors in their various fields of endeavour.

The old students recently organised themselves under EMIGRASA to address some of the challenges confronting their alma mater.

The association also commended the indigens of Ewulu at home for clearing the school compound.

It appealed to UBEC and SUBEB to extend the intervention to the school’s dilapidated classrooms.

The association also called for the provision of adequate chairs and tables for the students.

EMIGRASA further commended the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his administration’s collaboration with UBEC.

It commended the governor for ensuring the payment of the state’s counterpart funding to support educational development in Delta State.

The association noted that education remained one of the priorities of the MORE Agenda of the Oborevwori administration, and is ever grateful for this pragmatic approach to governance.