Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Senator James Ebiowou Manager, CON, on his 66th birthday.

He described him as a distinguished statesman whose decades of public service have contributed significantly to the growth of Delta State and Nigeria.

In a goodwill message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori praised Manager for his enduring commitment to democratic governance, peace and the advancement of the people.

The Governor said the former lawmaker had, over the years, distinguished himself through a remarkable political career anchored on experience, loyalty, courage and dedication to public service.

He noted that Manager’s contributions to the political and socio-economic development of Delta State, especially as a Senator remained noteworthy, adding that his leadership and wealth of experience had continued to inspire a younger generation of public office holders.

Oborevwori said: “On behalf of my family, the Government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate Senator James Ebiowou Manager, CON, on the joyous occasion of his 66th birth anniversary.

“Over the years, you have demonstrated an abiding commitment to public service and the development of our state and country. Your long and distinguished political journey reflects resilience, experience and dedication to the ideals of democracy.

“Your years in the Senate were marked by steadfast service and meaningful contributions to legislative governance and national development. Delta State remains proud of your accomplishments and the important role you have played in our democratic evolution.

“Your continued commitment to peace, unity and good governance remains deeply appreciated. As you mark 66 years, I pray that Almighty God grants you sound health, greater strength, wisdom and many more fulfilling years of service to humanity”.

The Delta State Executive Council has approved the institutionalisation of the 13th-month salary for civil servants, the recruitment of more teachers for public secondary schools and the equipping of technical colleges as part of measures to strengthen workers’ welfare and improve education in the state.

Briefing journalists after the Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu said the council approved a memo presented by the governor to make the payment of the 13th-month salary a permanent statutory benefit for workers.

Aniagwu, who addressed the media alongside the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme and the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Onoriode Agofure, said the approval would pave the way for an executive bill to be transmitted to the Delta State House of Assembly for legislative backing.

According to him, the move is aimed at ensuring that the payment of the 13th-month salary is no longer dependent on the discretion of any administration but becomes a legal entitlement for civil servants in the state.

He said that once the bill is passed into law, workers in the state would continue to enjoy the benefit beyond the tenure of the present administration.

The commissioner also disclosed that the Executive Council considered the shortage of teachers in public secondary schools, particularly in science subjects, and expressed concern over its impact on the quality of education.

He said the council directed the Ministry of Secondary Education to immediately prepare a memo indicating the number of teachers required for recruitment, adding that the council had, in principle, approved the employment of additional teachers to address the manpower gap in the state’s secondary schools.

Aniagwu further revealed that the council approved the procurement and installation of equipment for the Technical College in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area, while also approving plans to equip the Technical College in Irri upon completion.

He said the approvals underscored the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to revitalising technical education and equipping young people with practical skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship.

The commissioner added that the Executive Council also considered and approved several matters relating to the health and transport sectors, including new transport routes across the state.

The Commissioner also added that Exco also approved the appointment of HRM Goodnews Goodman Agbi, PhD, Athuaro I as the Ovie of Oyede Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area.

Aniagwu said the decisions taken at the meeting reflected the administration’s continued commitment to improving workers’ welfare, expanding access to quality education, strengthening healthcare delivery and enhancing public services across Delta State.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the purchase of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, the acquisition of electric vehicles and the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba as part of efforts to improve public transportation across the state.

The approvals were among key decisions reached at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by the governor.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, said the approvals were informed by a comprehensive transportation study carried out across major cities in the state, including Warri, Asaba, Ughelli, Agbor, Sapele, Abraka and Oleh.

According to him, the study revealed that an average of over 19,000 people move around the state daily, with about 80 per cent of commuters depending on public transportation, while only 20 per cent rely on private vehicles.

Agofure said the findings underscored the need for government to strengthen the state’s public transport system to meet the needs of the majority of residents.

He noted that Governor Oborevwori recognised transportation as a critical sector that drives economic and social activities, stressing that movement of people and goods is essential for commerce, education and access to workplaces.

“The governor is aware that transportation is central to economic development. People depend on transportation to go to the market, schools, offices and other places. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how restrictions on movement could shut down economies across the world,” he said.

The commissioner explained that the newly approved 50 CNG buses would form the backbone of the state’s MORE Mass Transit Scheme, aimed at providing safe, affordable and efficient transportation for residents.

He added that the approval for electric vehicles reflected the administration’s commitment to embracing modern, environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

Agofure further disclosed that EXCO also approved the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba to serve as the operational hub for the state’s mass transit system.

He said the terminal would help eliminate the numerous roadside and informal motor parks around the popular Koka Junction area, thereby improving traffic management and enhancing the aesthetics of the state capital.

According to him, land for the project has already been acquired and necessary processes are underway to commence construction.

He explained that when completed, all existing mushroom parks, including those operated by private transport operators, would be relocated to the new facility.

The commissioner also disclosed that a similar bus terminal would be developed in Warri, noting that the Federal Government had already approved the project following the intervention of Governor Oborevwori.

He said the projects were part of the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to modernising Delta State’s transportation infrastructure and delivering a more efficient and integrated public transport system for residents.

Senior Policy Adviser to the Delta State Governor and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Chief (Rt. Hon.) Solomon Funkekeme has said the appointment of Tantita Security Services Limited to protect Nigeria’s critical oil assets has significantly improved the nation’s economy while restoring peace across the Niger Delta.

Speaking during an appearance on Beyond The Headlines on TVC, Hon. Funkekeme commended President Tinubu for entrusting the surveillance of the country’s oil installations to Tantita Security Services Limited, led by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo.

According to him, the security outfit has played a pivotal role in curbing crude oil theft, boosting oil production and increasing government revenue at the federal, state and local government levels.

Funkekeme described Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, as an illustrious son of the Niger Delta whose contributions to the region’s struggle have now translated into tangible economic and security gains for the country.

He said the activities of Tantita Security Services Limited have created employment opportunities for thousands of youths across the Niger Delta, reduced insecurity and ensured the uninterrupted flow of crude oil.

“There is peace in the region, oil is flowing properly and a lot of young men have been empowered. The President’s confidence in Tompolo is also a demonstration of trust in the people of the Niger Delta,” he said.

The former Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly also praised the Tinubu administration for policies and initiatives benefiting the Niger Delta and the Ijaw people, including the legal backing given to the Nigerian Maritime University Okerenkoko and the establishment of an oil and gas medical facility in Benikruku.

Funkekeme further defended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, saying they have released more resources to the various tiers of government and laid the foundation for Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.

He maintained that while the reforms may require patience, they are designed to deliver lasting benefits to Nigerians and should be sustained.

“Nigeria is too big for trial and error. These reforms prioritise the country’s long-term stability over immediate applause. The Nigerian people are the ultimate beneficiaries, and continuity is necessary to consolidate the gains already being recorded,” he said.

He warned that reversing key policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy, would undermine the progress already achieved, stressing that sustained reforms are essential to guaranteeing continued economic growth and national development.

Bel Media Consult Limited, publishers of Ndokwa Reporters and The Brief, has announced the second edition of its flagship public policy engagement platform, Bel Dialogue, with former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Hon. Mike Igini, Esq., named Chairman of the Occasion.

The event, scheduled for Thursday, July 30, 2026, will hold at David’s Event Centre, Anwai Road, Asaba, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The 2026 edition them is, “Democracy That Works: Bridging the Gap Between Votes, Results and Institutional Accountability,” a subject the organisers described as timely in view of the growing need to strengthen democratic institutions, promote accountable governance and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral and governance processes.

Bel Dialogue is an annual non-partisan public engagement initiative of Bel Media Consult Limited, established to promote informed conversations on governance, public policy, leadership and national development. The platform provides an opportunity for policymakers, professionals, civil society actors, academics, traditional institutions, the media and citizens to interrogate critical national issues and collectively advance practical solutions.

The forthcoming edition follows the successful maiden Bel Dialogue, which established the platform as a credible forum for robust civic engagement and policy dialogue. Building on that foundation, this year’s event promises a more expansive and interactive conversation designed to stimulate ideas capable of strengthening democracy and improving institutional performance in Nigeria.

Announcing the programme on behalf of the Chairman of the Advisory Board, Pharm. Paul O. Enebeli, the Secretary of the Advisory Board and Executive Director of Bel Dialogue, Emmanuel Enebeli, said the appointment of Hon. Mike Igini as Chairman of the Occasion reflects the organisers’ commitment to excellence, credibility and the promotion of democratic values.

According to him, Hon. Igini’s distinguished record in electoral administration, constitutional democracy and institutional accountability makes him eminently qualified to preside over this year’s dialogue.

He noted that throughout his career with the Independent National Electoral Commission, Igini earned national acclaim for conducting elections that reflected the genuine will of the electorate while maintaining the highest standards of transparency, impartiality and professionalism.

“His unwavering commitment to electoral integrity, the rule of law and democratic accountability has earned him widespread respect across Nigeria and beyond. His wealth of experience and principled leadership make him an ideal Chairman for a dialogue focused on strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the people’s votes truly count,” Enebeli stated.

He explained that, unlike the conventional lecture format, Bel Dialogue is designed as a participatory platform where experts, stakeholders and members of the public engage in frank and solution-oriented discussions on issues affecting governance and national development.

Enebeli further disclosed that the organisers are putting finishing touches to arrangements for what promises to be one of the most significant public policy conversations in Delta State this year, adding that the names of the moderator, discussants and other distinguished participants will be announced in the coming days.

He called on public office holders, legislators, political leaders, professionals, members of the academic community, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, youth groups, the organised private sector, the media and other interested Nigerians to reserve the date and participate in the dialogue.

“Bel Dialogue is driven by the conviction that democracy can only thrive when institutions are strong, elections are credible, leaders are accountable and citizens remain actively engaged in the democratic process. We believe this year’s conversation will make meaningful contributions to the ongoing national discourse on democratic governance and institutional reforms,” he added.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, announcing the approval of a 13th-month salary for civil servants in the state.

The governor made the announcement at the 2026 Public Service Week Dinner and Awards Night held in Asaba, where he also approved a threefold increase in the cash prizes for outstanding public servants.

He described the event as an opportunity to celebrate excellence, review the progress of the public service and inspire greater productivity, noting that the theme, “Reforms, Resilience and Results,” aligns with his administration’s MORE Agenda.

According to him, meaningful reforms can only succeed when workers are properly motivated, equipped and supported through policies that promote their welfare and professional growth.

Governor Oborevwori commended the Delta State Public Service for its dedication and professionalism, saying its commitment has been instrumental in implementing government programmes across key sectors.
Reaffirming his pro-worker stance, he said welfare-related memos always receive prompt attention.

“When I see any memo concerning the welfare of civil servants. I always approve it because I know the importance of having over 60,000 workers standing with this administration,” he said.

The governor disclosed that the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters have been completed and will soon be commissioned after the internal roads are tarred.

He also announced that official vehicles for the 11 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries had been procured.

He assured workers that affordable housing remains a priority, adding that his administration would continue to pursue practical solutions and strategic partnerships to improve access to housing.

Oborevwori also revealed that the salaries of the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries had been increased by over 50 per cent.

He urged Permanent Secretaries and Directors to uphold integrity, professionalism and due process, describing Permanent Secretaries as the institutional memory of government.

“You are the landlords in the system while commissioners are tenants. Commissioners come and go, but the public service remains. Protect the system and always do the right thing,” he advised.

The governor congratulated award recipients and assured workers that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare while pursuing reforms that would strengthen the public service and deliver better results for Deltans.

Earlier, the State Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, said the 2026 Public Service Week provided an opportunity for reflection, professional development, institutional bonding and recognition of excellence.

She commended Governor Oborevwori for his sustained support for the public service, noting that the administration’s interventions had improved workers’ morale and performance.

Dr. Oseji urged civil servants to embrace ongoing reforms, stressing that integrity, innovation and dedication remain essential for a productive and efficient public service.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding civil servants. Mr. Abuga Dennis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources was named the Best Civil Servant Farmer, while Chinwe Atisele of the Hospitals Management Board and Mr. Reuben Udolu of the Ministry of Women Affairs received awards as the most punctual staff.

The recipients were presented with cash prizes and plaques by the governor in recognition of their exemplary service.

The Delta State Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced that his administration will pay a 13th-month salary bonus to all civil servants in the state.

The Governor made the announcement on Tuesday night during the Dinner and Award Night 2026 held in Asaba to commemorate the 2026 Public Service Week Celebration.

Governor Oborevwori’s gesture was received with arousing cheers by attendees at the event which is a pointer to better work condition for civil servants in the state.

This unparalleled gesture will make Governor Oborevwori the first Governor in Delta State’s history to approve and pay a 13th-month salary bonus to the state workforce.

The President-General of the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), Chief Amechi Asugwuni, has congratulated the Managing Director of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Festus Ochonogor, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement made available to journalists, Asugwuni praised Ochonogor’s leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to the development of the Ndokwa nation.

He described the DESOPADEC Managing Director as a fine gentleman whose passion for the progress, unity and advancement of the Ndokwa people has continued to distinguish him in public service.

The NNU President-General commended Ochonogor for his dedication to the ideals and activities of the Ndokwa Neku Union, noting that his consistent support for initiatives aimed at promoting the welfare and development of the Ndokwa nation remains commendable.

According to Asugwuni, Ochonogor has consistently demonstrated humility, commitment and a genuine desire to contribute to the growth of his people, qualities that have earned him widespread respect across the Ndokwa nation and beyond.

He prayed that God would continue to bless the DESOPADEC Managing Director with sound health, wisdom, strength and divine protection to enable him to render even greater service to Delta State and humanity.

On behalf of the leadership and members of the Ndokwa Neku Union, Asugwuni congratulated Chief Festus Ochonogor on his birthday and wished him many more years of fruitful service, fulfilment and abundant blessings.