Vice President Kashim Shettima, Monday called on local and foreign investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s improved economic outlook, declaring that Delta State is strategically positioned to emerge as one of the country’s foremost investment destinations.

He said the Federal Government’s economic reforms continue to restore investor confidence.

Speaking at the opening of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, Shettima said the bold reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration had strengthened macroeconomic stability, improved Nigeria’s global credit profile and created the right environment for long-term investments.

He said: “Every state possesses immense promise with its unique history, geography, people and comparative advantage. This is the race we must welcome, a race in which states compete to create employment, prosperity and human dignity”.

According to him, increased federal allocations arising from ongoing fiscal reforms have empowered state governments to pursue ambitious development programmes, while recent upgrades by Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s reflected growing international confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

“These are proof that Nigeria is regaining credibility, and the best time to invest is now before the opportunity becomes expensive,” he added.

Shettima described Delta as a first-order investment destination, noting that beyond its oil wealth, the state’s deliberate commitment to economic diversification was its greatest strength.

He identified Delta’s strategic coastline, ports, natural gas reserves, refining assets, vast agricultural potential, blue economy opportunities and rich deposits of solid minerals as key assets capable of transforming the state into a major industrial and commercial hub.

Commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for convening the summit, Shettima said the Federal Government would continue working with sub-national governments to eliminate barriers to enterprise and support credible investments.

“We are co-travellers on the road from promise to production, from allocation to transformation, and from potential to prosperity,” he said.

Earlier in his address, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori announced that the state government had set aside US $100 million as Viability Gap Funding to de-risk strategic private sector investments, describing the initiative as a major step towards converting investment commitments into bankable projects.

He said the summit was conceived to move beyond discussions and deliver measurable investments capable of accelerating industrialisation, economic diversification and job creation.

Oborevwori explained that the initiative followed investment promotion missions undertaken by the state to China and Brazil in 2025, aimed at attracting strategic global partnerships.

The governor said Delta, with an estimated economy valued at about ₦17 trillion, remained one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations because of its abundant natural resources, improving infrastructure, sound fiscal management and investor-friendly policies.

He disclosed that the state had introduced tax incentives, including waivers on tenement rates, levies and other charges for up to five years, while establishing an Ease of Doing Business Council to simplify investment processes.

According to him, over 12,000 hectares of land have been earmarked for commercial agriculture, while the state’s 163-kilometre coastline road presents enormous opportunities in the blue economy.

Oborevwori also highlighted investment prospects in gas-fired power plants, renewable energy, solar farms and mini-grid infrastructure, assuring investors that Delta remained financially stable, secure and debt-free under his administration.

He noted that the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources had recognised Delta as Nigeria’s Safest State for Oil and Gas Investments in 2024.

In her keynote address, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, urged Delta State to leverage on global supply chain realignments, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Nigeria’s economic reforms to position itself as the country’s next industrial growth hub.

Saying that she is “a Delta State optimist”, she said the state’s natural gas reserves, seaports, rail connectivity, fertile agricultural land, skilled workforce and fiscal discipline placed it in a strong position to compete with established commercial centres.

Okonjo-Iweala advised the state government to concentrate investments in strategic sectors, including the Delta Special Economic Zone, agro-processing, blue economy, oil and gas value addition, marine logistics and digital infrastructure, while investing in artificial intelligence and digital connectivity to prepare young people for the future.

Also speaking, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, said Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals had improved considerably, noting that the country had moved from capital flight in 2023 to a more stable and predictable exchange rate environment in 2026.

He advocated stronger economic collaboration between Delta and Anambra States and urged governments to make investment promotion a continuous process rather than an occasional event.

Renowned Pan-Africanist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, challenged African governments and investors to have greater confidence in the continent’s economic potential, insisting that Africa possessed the resources, talent and entrepreneurial capacity to drive sustainable development.

He urged African investors to channel more investments into the continent, arguing that increased intra-African investment would accelerate industrialisation, create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign capital.

Minister of Finance, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, said the Tinubu administration’s reforms, including subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation, had significantly increased revenues available to states and local governments for development.

He described Delta as a natural powerhouse of the blue economy and encouraged investors to see both the state and Nigeria as leading investment destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Chairman of Transcorp Power Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, pledged the company’s readiness to partner with the Delta State Government to provide reliable electricity for industries and households across the state.

Similarly, Chief Executive Officer of Mosra Energy, Ramos Olukayode, disclosed that Delta possesses over 200 million tonnes of coal deposits in Obomkpa, Ukunzu and surrounding communities, while Chief Executive Officer UTM Gas Limited, Julius Rone, revealed that Delta State’s ₦42 billion investment for an eight per cent equity stake in the company in 2022 is now valued at about ₦200 billion.

Rone also announced that UTM Gas would establish its corporate headquarters in Warri when its operations commence fully in 2030, further strengthening Delta’s position as a major energy investment destination.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday approved a comprehensive welfare package for Deltans who returned from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, including a ₦2 million grant for each affected family and monthly stipends to support their reintegration.

Under the package, each individual returnee will receive a monthly welfare stipend of ₦200,000, while every affected family will receive ₦300,000 monthly, effective from August 2026 until the end of the governor’s first tenure on May 29, 2027.

Speaking during the reception of the returnees at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing them as a gross violation of human dignity.

He said no individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation or discrimination on account of nationality and expressed sympathy with the victims over the physical, emotional and financial losses they suffered.

The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his prompt intervention, which he said facilitated the safe evacuation of the affected Nigerians from South Africa.

As part of measures to cushion the effects of their ordeal, Oborevwori announced that the state government would provide free medical screening for all returnees at government-owned health facilities.

He also directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to provide trauma counselling and psychosocial support for the victims and their families.

Urging Deltans to receive the returnees with compassion, solidarity and kindness, the governor said such values reflected the true Delta spirit, assuring the victims that the unfortunate experience would not define their future.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for all citizens while calling for sustained protection of the rights and dignity of Nigerians living abroad.

Earlier, the Commissioner in charge of the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, assured the returnees of the state government’s commitment to helping them rebuild their lives, describing their safe return as a testament to compassionate leadership and effective collaboration between the federal and state governments.

He recalled that the reports of the attacks, which claimed lives, destroyed property and livelihoods and left many victims traumatised, were received with deep shock and sadness.

Etacherure thanked God for preserving the lives of the victims and commended Governor Oborevwori for his swift intervention and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the returnees.

He disclosed that the governor personally directed that every returning Deltan be properly identified, documented and received with dignity, while relevant agencies were mandated to provide the assistance required for their reintegration into society.

Welcoming them home, Etacherure encouraged the returnees to take advantage of the numerous economic and empowerment opportunities available in the state, expressing confidence that Delta remained a land of opportunities under Governor Oborevwori’s administration.

Responding on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Jacob Agbada expressed profound appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for approving the ₦2 million grant and the monthly stipend, describing the gesture as timely and life-changing.

He said they were deeply grateful to the governor for his compassion, generosity and unwavering support during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.

ASABA — Stakeholders in governance, electoral administration, academia, civil society and the media have called for comprehensive electoral reforms, stronger democratic institutions and greater citizen participation as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The call was made on Thursday in Asaba during the 2026 edition of BEL Dialogue, an annual public policy forum organised by Bel Media Consult Limited, publishers of Ndokwa Reporters and The Brief. The forum, themed “Democracy That Works: Bridging the Gap Between Votes, Results and Institutional Accountability,” examined the state of Nigeria’s democracy, electoral process and the performance of institutions responsible for democratic governance.

Ahead of the public dialogue, a delegation led by the Chairman of the BEL Dialogue Advisory Board, Pharm. Paul O. Enebeli, paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, where they briefed the monarch on the objectives of the forum and sought his royal blessings.

Receiving the delegation, the Asagba commended Bel Media Consult for initiating a platform dedicated to strengthening democratic governance and promoting national discourse on electoral accountability.

The monarch said the decision to host the dialogue in Asaba was significant, expressing optimism that the initiative would position the Delta State capital as a centre for conversations on national development and democratic reforms.

“I have listened attentively to the presentation on what BEL Media Consult intends to achieve. It is time we begin to decentralise governance. I am pleased that BEL Dialogue is taking place in Asaba because we want the city to remain at the forefront of national conversations,” he said.
The royal father described the theme of the dialogue as timely, noting that it coincided with the period leading to political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said the forum would help sensitise citizens on the importance of democratic participation and accountability, expressing hope that its recommendations would contribute to improving Nigeria’s electoral system.
According to the Asagba, democracy should continuously evolve to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.

“We need a democracy that works. Our objective is not to condemn anyone but to contribute ideas that will strengthen democratic governance and improve the country’s future,” he stated.

The monarch also highlighted community-based initiatives undertaken by the Asaba Palace in areas such as healthcare, environmental sanitation and social welfare, explaining that traditional institutions have a role to play in complementing government efforts toward development.

He observed that despite Nigeria’s abundant natural resources, poor governance had slowed national progress and urged citizens and leaders alike to work towards building stronger institutions.

Earlier, Pharm. Enebeli commended the Asagba for what he described as his transformational leadership since ascending the throne and briefed him on the objectives of BEL Dialogue.

He said the initiative was established to encourage informed public discourse on governance, democratic accountability and national development while seeking practical solutions to challenges confronting the country’s democracy.

At the opening of the forum, Pharm. Enebeli said the 2026 theme was deliberately chosen as the nation gradually approaches another election cycle.

According to him, democracy can only flourish when electoral outcomes genuinely reflect the will of the people and institutions responsible for managing elections remain independent, transparent and accountable.

He said the dialogue was designed to promote peaceful civic engagement, encourage informed participation in the electoral process and stimulate conversations capable of strengthening democratic governance.

Chairman of the occasion and former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Hon. Mike Igini, said integrity, institutional independence and adherence to the rule of law remain essential to sustaining democracy.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Igini said the credibility of elections depends more on the integrity of the electoral process than on the declaration of results.

“When the process is transparent, fair and credible, the result naturally earns public trust. However, when the process is compromised, the legitimacy of the outcome will inevitably be questioned,” he said.
He stressed the need for an independent judiciary capable of protecting democratic values and ensuring electoral justice, adding that democratic institutions must be strengthened to serve the interests of the people.

The Special Guest of Honour, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Hon. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, represented by Barr. Timothy Agbaragu, in his remark, described the dialogue as a valuable platform for constructive engagement on governance and democratic development.

He urged citizens, political parties, government institutions and other stakeholders to work collectively towards protecting the integrity of elections and strengthening democratic values.

The forum featured panel discussions by Prof. Andrew Agboro, Hon. Gibson Alporhe, Dr. Monday Michaels Ashibogu, Ambassador Augusta Chibuzor Keneboh and Lady Ejiro Umukoro, while veteran broadcaster Mr. Lawrence Okpewho moderated the interactive session.

Participants drawn from government, political parties, civil society organisations, professional bodies, women groups, community leaders and the media actively engaged the discussants, making contributions and asking questions on electoral reforms, governance and institutional accountability.

Throughout the discussions, participants expressed concern over ambiguities in Nigeria’s electoral laws, inadequate funding of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, weak enforcement of sanctions against electoral offenders, voter apathy, poor civic education, corruption and the absence of ideology-driven politics.
They maintained that democracy should reflect the genuine will of the electorate and called for reforms that would ensure election outcomes are determined by votes cast at polling units rather than prolonged post-election litigation.

The stakeholders advocated free, fair, credible and inclusive elections, urging INEC, security agencies, political parties and other stakeholders to operate strictly within the law while upholding transparency, fairness and accountability throughout the electoral process.

They also recommended clearer electoral laws, stronger enforcement of the rules guiding elections, adequate funding for electoral and security institutions and sustained civic education to encourage informed citizen participation.

The participants further stressed that recruitment into public institutions should be based on merit, competence and integrity instead of ethnic, religious or sectional considerations, arguing that merit-based appointments would strengthen institutions and promote national development.

They equally advocated issue-based politics driven by competence, service and ideology, insisting that democratic institutions must remain stronger than the individuals occupying public offices.

The high point of the forum was the presentation of the BEL Dialogue Award for Practical Democracy to former INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Hon. Mike Igini, in recognition of his contributions to electoral integrity, democratic governance and the promotion of credible elections in Nigeria..

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo, CFR, (Rtd), ORHUE I, Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and Chairman, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, on the occasion of his 20th coronation anniversary.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Wednesday, Governor Oborevwori described the reign of the Orodje as one marked by peace, wisdom, and exemplary leadership.

The Governor noted that in the last two decades, His Majesty has provided purposeful guidance to the Okpe people and has continued to play a stabilizing role across Delta State through his position as Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council.

Governor Oborevwori said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Delta State, I congratulate our father, His Royal Majesty, Maj.Gen. Felix Mujakperuo, CFR,(Rtd), ORHUE I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, on this remarkable milestone of 20 years on the throne.

“Your Majesty’s reign has been defined by unity, advocacy for development, and commitment to preserving our cultural heritage. As Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, you have been a strong partner in governance and a voice of reason in promoting peace and harmony in our state.”

Governor Oborevwori commended the monarch for his fatherly role, counsel to government, and dedication to the welfare of his people, praying for more years of good health and a peaceful reign on the throne of his forefathers.

He also joined the people of Okpe Kingdom, the Urhobo nation, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, and well-wishers in celebrating the anniversary, and urged continued support for the monarch’s vision of a united and prosperous kingdom.

The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the 2027 Delta State governorship election, Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, has declared that Delta State possesses the financial strength and human resources required to achieve greater development, insisting that the state’s current level of infrastructure does not reflect its enormous revenue capacity.

In this exclusive interview with UGOCHUKWU BENSON and CELESTINE ESE, Eshor spoke on his ambition to lead Delta State, his confidence in defeating the incumbent administration in 2027, the poor state of rural roads across the state, and his argument that governance should be based on competence rather than political arrangements.

The maritime engineer, entrepreneur, and founder of the Focus Foundation expressed concern over what he described as the disconnect between Delta State’s financial resources and the realities experienced by many communities. He particularly highlighted the condition of rural roads, which he said has affected economic activities, especially agriculture, by making it difficult for farmers to transport their produce to markets.

Speaking on his governorship ambition, Eshor said he believes the electorate has the power to determine the direction of the state whenever a government fails to meet the expectations of the people. He argued that the wealth of Delta State should translate into visible development across communities, including better road networks and improved connectivity between towns and villages.

He maintained that his decision to contest under the African Action Congress was driven by his desire to provide an alternative leadership approach focused on competence, accountability, and effective utilisation of public resources.

On the contentious issue of zoning and equity in Delta’s governorship succession, Eshor argued that leadership in a democracy should not be restricted by arrangements that are not constitutionally binding. According to him, the people should have the freedom to choose leaders based on capacity, integrity, and the ability to deliver results.

In the wide-ranging interview, Eshor also spoke about his plans to open up communities through improved infrastructure, his confidence in his chances in the 2027 election, and his belief that Deltans will ultimately choose a leader with the vision and competence to move the state forward.

Can we meet you?

My name is Engr. Isaac O. Eshor, and I am a proud son of Ebu Town in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. I am a Maritime Engineer, entrepreneur, employer of labour, International Ambassador to Intercap Nigeria, Founder of the Focus Foundation, and the governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) for the 2027 election.

You are contesting for the governorship of Delta State under the African Action Congress (AAC). What makes you believe you can defeat an incumbent governor?

Thank you very much. It will not be the first time in Nigeria that a sitting governor has been defeated. In every democracy, the people remain the ultimate decision-makers, and when a government fails to meet their expectations, they have the constitutional right to vote for a new leadership. That is why I believe the 2027 governorship election should not be viewed simply as a contest between political parties or individuals, but as an opportunity for Deltans to assess the performance of the current administration and determine whether the state has made the level of progress that its enormous resources should ordinarily deliver.

Delta State belongs to all of us, and every community deserves to experience meaningful development. When I look at the huge resources and monthly allocations accruing to the state, I believe the present administration has performed below expectations. The level of infrastructure and development across many parts of the state does not reflect the enormous financial resources available to Delta State.

Let me begin with my hometown, Ebu, because charity begins at home. For more than 30 years, my people have lived without many of the basic social amenities they deserve. The major economic road linking Ebu with neighbouring communities has collapsed, leaving residents effectively cut off from surrounding towns. Today, the only practical access route is through the federal road via Illah, which is itself in a deplorable condition. This situation has made movement difficult for residents and has affected economic activities within the community.

The Ebu road was last constructed during the administration of former Governor James Ibori about three decades ago. Since then, successive administrations, including the present government, have not done enough to address the problem despite repeated appeals from the people. To me, that is a clear indication that many rural communities have not received the level of attention they deserve.

The challenge is not limited to Ebu alone. In Ashama, in Aniocha South Local Government Area, and in several other communities, there are virtually no motorable roads, forcing residents to depend largely on motorcycles for transportation. Similar infrastructure challenges also exist in Delta Central. The Orhoakpor–Ododegho–Ughelli Road in Ethiope East Local Government Area has remained in a deplorable condition for a long time.

I also visited Asaba-Ase through Uzere in Delta South and saw communities that still lack proper road links. Seeing those conditions strengthened my conviction that much more can and should be done. While the government has announced the construction of several flyovers, I believe Delta State has the financial capacity to execute those projects while also rehabilitating and constructing major roads that connect rural and urban communities across the state.

For me, development should not be concentrated in a few locations while many communities remain isolated because of poor infrastructure. With the level of revenue available to Delta State, including the state’s 2025 allocation of about ₦936 billion, excluding internally generated revenue, I believe it is possible to improve road infrastructure across the three senatorial districts. Delta remains one of Nigeria’s richest states in terms of federal allocations, and I believe those resources should translate into visible and balanced development that positively impacts the daily lives of ordinary citizens.

If elected governor, do you believe you can perform better than the present administration?

Yes, I do. I believe that with proper planning, accountability, and a clear understanding of the needs of the people, Delta State can achieve far more than what we are currently witnessing. My focus will be on ensuring that the resources of the state are directed towards projects that have direct impact on the lives of ordinary Deltans.

Within two years, I will prioritize opening up major link roads connecting neighbouring towns and villages because we have the resources to do so. Good roads are not just about transportation; they are the foundation upon which economic activities, social development, and community growth are built. When communities are connected by good roads, farmers can move their produce to markets easily, businesses can expand, and residents can access opportunities that improve their standard of living.

Today, many of our people are suffering because of poor infrastructure. Farmers, in particular, face serious difficulties transporting their agricultural products from rural communities to markets because of bad roads. In many cases, their efforts and investments are affected because they cannot easily get their produce to buyers. A government that understands the importance of economic development must first provide the infrastructure that allows people to thrive.

Infrastructure is the foundation of economic development. Without functional roads and proper connectivity, even the best economic plans will struggle to succeed. This is why my administration will pay serious attention to opening up communities and ensuring that rural areas are not neglected.

When you compare what states like Abia and Enugu are doing with the resources available to them, it raises serious questions about whether Delta State’s enormous financial resources are being effectively translated into meaningful development. In my opinion, the answer is no. Delta State has the capacity to do much more because of the resources available to the state.

My belief is that government should be measured by the visible impact it creates in the lives of the people. The goal should be to ensure that every community feels the presence of government through projects that address their real needs and improve their quality of life.

How do you intend to defeat the incumbent governor in the 2027 election?

Time will tell. Every election has its own dynamics, and I believe that the people of Delta State will ultimately determine the direction they want the state to go. At this stage, I will not disclose my campaign strategies because every political movement has its plans, approach, and methods of engagement with the electorate.

However, I want to make it clear that I am fully prepared and committed to the governorship race. I am not entering the 2027 election as a participant; I am in the race with the intention of winning. My decision to contest is based on my belief that Delta State has the potential to achieve much more than it is currently experiencing, especially considering the resources available to the state and the expectations of the people.

I believe that elections are ultimately about the confidence and trust of the people. When citizens evaluate the performance of any administration, they consider issues that affect their daily lives, including infrastructure, economic opportunities, and the overall development of their communities. My message to Deltans is centered on the need for leadership that understands their challenges and is committed to using available resources for meaningful development.

The people of Delta State have the right to make their choice based on the performance of government and the vision presented by those seeking to lead them. I believe that with the right engagement, a clear message, and a commitment to addressing the concerns of the people, Deltans will make the right decision in 2027.

I am consulting widely across the state, listening to the concerns of communities, and building relationships with people from different parts of Delta. The goal is to understand their needs and present a vision that reflects their aspirations.

For now, I will continue to focus on preparing for the election and presenting myself as an alternative leadership option for Deltans. The people will decide, and I believe that by 2027, they will choose the candidate they believe has the capacity, commitment, and vision to move Delta State forward.

Some people argue that Delta State’s governorship follows an equity arrangement and that it is now the turn of Delta Central to complete eight years after Anioma. What is your position?

Thank you very much. My position is very clear. Is that arrangement contained in the Nigerian Constitution? We operate a democratic system where every qualified citizen has the right to aspire to any political office, and the final decision rests with the electorate. While I understand the arguments being made around equity, fairness, and political balancing, I believe that leadership selection in a democracy should be based on principles that guarantee competence, capacity, integrity, and the ability to deliver good governance.

For me, the most important question should be: who has the vision, experience, commitment, and ability to move Delta State forward? The people of Delta State deserve leadership that will address their challenges and use the resources of the state for the benefit of all citizens, regardless of where they come from.

My party, the African Action Congress (AAC), does not believe in zoning or power rotation as a binding principle. We believe that democracy should allow all qualified individuals to present themselves to the people, while the electorate has the responsibility to assess the candidates and make their choice based on competence and credibility.

Delta State belongs to all Deltans. The governor of the state should not only represent a particular senatorial district or ethnic group; he or she should be a leader who understands the needs of every community across Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South. The issues affecting our people, such as poor infrastructure, unemployment, and the need for economic development, require leadership that can bring everyone together and deliver results.

That said, I respect the views of those who believe in equity and political arrangements. Every part of the state has legitimate aspirations, and those concerns should be listened to. However, in a democratic environment, we must also consider the capacity of individuals seeking to lead and the ability of such individuals to provide effective governance.

I am consulting widely across Delta State and engaging with people from different communities. My belief is that Deltans are intelligent and understand the importance of choosing leaders who can transform the state. Ultimately, the people will decide who has the vision, competence, and commitment required to move Delta State forward.

The future of Delta should be built on fairness, inclusion, and good governance. While political considerations are part of democracy, the ultimate goal must remain the development and progress of the state and the wellbeing of its people.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her historic election as the first elected female President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), describing her emergence as a milestone for the legal profession and a victory for merit, excellence and gender inclusion.

The governor also felicitated with two Deltans, Chief Oghenero Okoro and Mrs. Gladys Aghogho Okpomor, on their election into the National Executive Committee of the NBA.

In a statement issued on Friday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Oborevwori said Badejo-Okusanya’s emergence reflected the confidence reposed in her by members of the legal profession, following her distinguished career marked by integrity, professionalism and dedication to justice.

He expressed optimism that her leadership would strengthen the legal profession, deepen the rule of law and promote reforms that would improve access to justice across the country.

The governor urged the new NBA President to unite members of the association after the keenly contested election and work with stakeholders in advancing judicial reforms, protecting the sanctity of the Constitution and sustaining the legal profession’s role in Nigeria’s democratic development. He also wished her a successful tenure.

Oborevwori described the election of Chief Oghenero Okoro as the First Vice President of the NBA as a well-deserved in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the legal profession.

Oborevwori said Okoro’s victory, a former Chairman of the NBA Warri Branch, is a source of pride to Delta State and expressed confidence that he would bring his wealth of experience to bear in strengthening the association.

He equally congratulated Mrs. Gladys Aghogho Okpomor on her election as Assistant General Secretary of the NBA, noting that her emergence underscored the growing influence of Delta professionals in the nation’s legal community.

Oborevwori recalled that Okpomor had previously served as Assistant General Secretary of the Young Lawyers Forum, Minna Branch, and commended her dedication to the growth of the legal profession.

The governor wished all the newly elected national officers a successful tenure and urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while working to advance the interests of the legal profession and the administration of justice in Nigeria.