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Tag: Delta

  • Delta signs REA renewable energy MoU to increase GDP by $2.9b

    Delta signs REA renewable energy MoU to increase GDP by $2.9b

    …to attract $158m investments

    …governor pledges return on investments

    The Delta state government on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the deployment of renewable energy with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Programme (NESIP), capable of increasing its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by $2.9 billion.

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; Secretary to the Government, Kingsley Eze Emu; Commissioner for Energy, Tataobuzogwu Sunday; and the Energy Permanent Secretary, Felicia Olugbo signed the pact at the REA State -By- Roundtable Engagement with Delta State in Abuja.

    The theme was “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and Inclusive Access in Delta State.”

    The governor pledged a return on investment for the would-be partners.

    “We promise investors a friendly business environment that guarantees sustainable returns on investment. We assure prospective investors of our determination to invest in the energy sector.”

    He said the goal was to accelerate energy assets for unserved communities through the deployment of renewable energy solutions in Delta State.

    Oborevwori assured the deployment partners, namely World Bank, Renewable Energy Companies (RESCO), and prospective investors, that Delta State is irrevocably committed to investments in the energy sector.

    According to him, the focus of the state shall be on scaling up renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.

     The REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu had in his presentation on “Scaling Electrification in Nigeria: Delta State,” said that electrification of off-grid in the state is capable of attracting $158million investments to the Delta.

    He also said investing in off-grid powered solutions will empower communities in Delta State and create 31,220 new jobs.

    On the GDP, he told the Governor that, “If we address the electricity access to all the communities within Delta State, we will boost the GDP of Delta State with at least 2.9 billion U.S. dollars.”

    Read Also: Army: We will maintain security in Delta

    He said using the VIDA platform, REA has identified 471 potential mini-grid sites in Delta State.

    He said, based on the assessment, 386,000 individuals in Delta State can be connected using the agency’s system.

    According to him, the agency has identified 531 educational facilities that can be powered with mini-grids in the state.

    REA, he said, has identified 471 off-grid communities and also realised it can connect 120,000 connections through mini-grid.

    He said, “Based on the assessment, this is what we are presenting to you. We now realise that 386,000 individuals of Delta can be connected by using the system that we have.

    “We have identified them, and we will show you.

    We also identified 531 educational facilities that can be powered using the mini-grid.

    “We also have identified 471 off-grid communities, that’s in Delta State. And we estimated that we can connect 120,000 connections using this mini-grid.”

    Speaking, the Rural Electrification Fund, Executive Director, Engr. Doris Uboh, having encouraged the private sector to bring the funds, the way forward is to have state participation.

    She said while 60% of the funding is from the private sector, the state government is expected to provide 30% and the land.

    She said, “So what the agency is trying to do is to bring these projects to you. So, the way forward is to have our participation from the state governments, having encouraged the private sector to bring in their funds there. The private sector will be putting in its funds into this project because it will create blended financing. For any projects that we bring in with this project we are talking about, 60% of the funds will be provided by R&D 30% by the state government, and the state governments also provide land to encourage, because one of the problems that the RESCOs run away from is the issue of land. So communities think Oh, it’s a government project, it’s a free project, it’s an opportunity for them to milk the developers but that discourages people.”

  • ActionAid lists gains, bows out after 16-yr rights programme in Delta 

    ActionAid lists gains, bows out after 16-yr rights programme in Delta 

    A non-governmental organisation, ActionAid Nigeria has wrapped up its 16-year Local Rights Programme in 13 Delta communities, hailing significant achievements in poverty reduction, women empowerment, and grassroots development. 

    The organisation will now extend its work to Isoko North and South Local Government Areas.

    Speaking during a celebration in Ughelli to mark the end of the programme, ActionAid’s Country Director, Andrew Memedu, represented by his Deputy, Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo, said the intervention was launched despite Delta’s high GDP, after realising that “poverty thrived in the midst of plenty” and many rural communities were cut off from the dividends of democracy.

    Read Also: ActionAid backs ban on use plastic in Lagos

    She said the programme, implemented through local partner Environmental and Rural Mediation Centre (ENVIRUMEDIC), bridged the gap between government and underserved communities, particularly in Ughelli South, Ndokwa West, and Ndokwa East LGAs.

    “We realised that the level of wealth did not translate in the lives of the communities, so Actionaid wanted to demonstrate the reality of poverty in the midst of plenty.

  • Delta police arrest suspected kidnappers, cultists, recover arms in multiple raids

    Delta police arrest suspected kidnappers, cultists, recover arms in multiple raids

    The Delta State Police Command has announced the arrest of several suspected kidnappers and cultists terrorising parts of the state.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, 2025, the command’s public relations officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the arrests followed credible intelligence and coordinated operations in Ogwashi-Uku, Ubuluku, Isseluku, Ewulu, and Abraka.

    According to Edafe, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson, in collaboration with the Command’s X-Squad and Buffalo Patrol Team, stormed a criminal hideout along Ibusa Road on July 27 at about 1:20 a.m.

    They apprehended a notorious suspect, Chiadiji Collins, aka “Smooth,” 42, who had been on the Command’s watchlist for his involvement in multiple kidnapping cases across Ibusa, Ogwashi-Uku, and Asaba.

    Following his arrest, a search at his residence in Ewulu, Aniocha South Local Government Area, led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and 40 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Further investigation led to the arrest of an alleged accomplice, Ezechie Andrew, from the same community. Two pump-action guns and two live cartridges were recovered from him.

    Read Also: Otuaro hails Tinubu for backing PAP’s peacebuilding process In Niger Delta

    The police said both suspects are believed to be members of a kidnap syndicate responsible for several abductions in Ogwashi-Uku, Isseluku, and other parts of the state.

    In a separate operation on July 30, at about 6:30 a.m., operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) raided a criminal hideout at Big Gate, Campus III, Abraka.

    Three suspects — Benjamin Okwufulueze, 21, Augustine Ifeanyi, 22, and Iruma Japheth, 27 — were arrested. Recovered from them were a fabricated Beretta pistol, four rounds of live ammunition, a cap with “Eiye” cult inscription, and a battle axe.

    The suspects reportedly confessed to being members of the Eiye confraternity.

    All suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

    Meanwhile, Delta State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, has urged parents and guardians to steer their children away from criminal activities and cultism. He also called on residents to promptly report suspicious individuals or movements to the police.

  • Man arrested for murder of lover in Delta

    Man arrested for murder of lover in Delta

    • Says he killed lover under influence of drugs

    Delta State Police Command has arrested 27-year-old Kelvin Obakpororo for the murder of his lover, Excellence, the mother of his two sons.

    Police spokesman Superintendent of Police Bright Edafe confirmed the arrest yesterday in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

    According to the police, Excellence was killed between June 26 and 27, this year, in Sapele by Obakpororo, who is also the father of her children.

    The spokesman said the suspect had initially gone into hiding after committing the crime but had been apprehended and is in police custody.

    Edafe stated: “You may recall that between June 26 and 27, 2025, social media was flooded with reports about the mysterious murder of a lady named Excellence in Sapele, who was killed by her boyfriend, the father of her two children.

    Read Also: Renewed Hope Agenda has translated visions into actions  in Niger Delta, says Ogbuku

    “The suspect initially evaded arrest but has since been apprehended and is now in police custody.”

    Edafe assured the public, saying: “For those demanding justice for Excellence, we want to inform you that the suspected killer is in custody, and we will ensure he is arraigned in court soonest.”

    Obakpororo claimed that he was under the influence of drugs when he committed the murder.

    “She was doing a hook-up. Whenever she came to my house, she would take some clothes and change to meet another man. On that fateful day, we had an argument; she grabbed a knife, and I picked up a hammer,” he recounted.

    After overpowering her, he said, “I struck her on the forehead three times with the hammer before she fell and died.

    “I didn’t know she would die, and it wasn’t my clear eyes. I took 200mg of tramadol. It’s a mistake. I’m so sorry. She had two sons: three and two-year-old sons, for me.”

    The suspect said he was into Internet fraud (Yahoo-Yahoo) and regretted killing the mother of his children.

  • Delta doctors threaten strike over alleged pay cuts

    Delta doctors threaten strike over alleged pay cuts

    The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Delta branch, has flayed a recent circular from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), which they view as an affront to the medical profession and a potential catalyst for widespread industrial action across the country.

    This condemnation was contained in a statement by the branch chairman, Dr. Israel Adaigho, in Asaba, Delta State capital.
    The contentious circular, dated June 27, 2025 (Ref: SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646), announced changes to the allowances for medical and dental officers under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).

    The Delta NMA described this change as a violation of several long-standing Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) established in 2001, 2009, and 2014.

    The association argued that the unilateral actions taken by the NSIWC undermined the established wage hierarchy between medical professionals and their counterparts in the healthcare sector.

    The NMA expressed concern over the economic challenges confronting octors, asserting that the circular embodied a lack of sensitivity to these realities.

    They expressed strong support for the 21-day ultimatum issued by the national NMA leadership on July 2, 2025, which called on the Federal Government to promptly reverse the NSIWC’s decision and fully implement previously agreed-upon entitlements.

    Key demands of the NMA included the immediate withdrawal and correction of the NSIWC circular from June 2025, restoration of appropriate wage relativity and implementation of professional allowances and payment of arrears related to the 25/35% CONMESS adjustment, including clinical and call duty allowances.

    Others are the immediate and upward review of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), universal application of CONMESS across all medical institutions to address internal brain drain issues, the issuance of circulars regarding reviewed retirement ages and a reversal of appointments for non-physician consultants, initiation of a long-overdue review of CONMESS and the removal of barriers preventing tax exemption on allowances for medical practitioners.

    The Delta NMA noted that their reaction underscored the escalating tension between medical professionals and the government over compensation and working conditions, emphasizing the potential for industrial action if their demands are not met.

    The NMA warned that should the Federal Government fail to meet those demands before the expiration of the ultimatum, doctors across the country might be forced to withdraw their services in solidarity with their national leadership—plunging the country into a full-blown health crisis.

    The association also called on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and all relevant authorities to intervene urgently.
    Dr. Adaigho further urged state governments to proactively improve the welfare of medical professionals in their jurisdictions and commit to timely implementation of improved welfare packages, noting that the wellbeing of doctors directly impacts the quality of healthcare delivery to Nigerians.

    “Nigerian doctors are overburdened, underpaid, and increasingly leaving the country,” he warned. “It is time for the government to act—not just to avoid a strike, but to save the health sector from total collapse.”

  • Police arrest five suspected kidnappers, recover N5m ransom

    Police arrest five suspected kidnappers, recover N5m ransom

    …CP special team kills six suspects

    The Delta State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda, has recorded a breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against criminal elements in the state, particularly kidnappers.

    In a statement released on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, five suspected kidnappers were apprehended and a ₦5 million ransom was recovered from them.

    According to Edafe, the arrest followed a coordinated operation by the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrimes Squad, led by CSP Godwin Osadolor. Acting on intelligence, the team raided a hideout in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Oshimili North Local Government Area, where one of the suspects, Sanusi Abdulahi, was arrested in possession of ₦5,000,000—believed to be part of a ransom paid by one of their recent victims.

    Preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to a series of kidnapping cases across various communities, including Ibusa, Ogwashi-Ukwu, Obulu-Okiti, and Isele-Ukwu. One notable incident was the abduction of a young lady on July 9, 2025.

    Abdulahi’s confession led to the arrest of four additional members of the kidnapping gang from their various hideouts in Asaba. Investigations into the gang’s broader criminal network are ongoing.

    In a separate sting operation on the same day, around 8:35 a.m., the CP-Special Assignment Team conducted a raid along the Patani-Ughelli Expressway near the Unenurhei axis, targeting an armed gang. The suspects—identified as Solomon Danisco (alias “Picolo”), Nelson Jacob, Oruma Saturday, Olise Jude, Precious Urhobowin, and Whisky Rufus (alias “Asawana”)—engaged police officers in a fierce gun battle.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    The exchange of gunfire left six of the suspects fatally wounded, with two others currently receiving treatment. The police recovered four locally-made firearms and 19 live cartridges during the operation.

    SP Edafe said the success of these operations reflects the proactive approach of the Delta State Police Command in combating kidnapping and armed robbery.

    He emphasised that ongoing investigations are vital to dismantling criminal syndicates and enhancing the safety of residents across the state.

    “Preliminary investigation revealed that they were allegedly responsible for a series of kidnappings at Ibusa, Ogwash-Ukwu, Obulu-Okiti, Isele-Ukwu, Isele-Asagba and most recently the kidnapping of a young lady at Ogwash-Ukwu on the 9th July 2025. The suspect led the operatives to their hideout at the second Deputy, and Oko in Asaba, where four other members of his gang were also arrested. Investigation is ongoing.

    “On the 9th of July, 2025, at about 0835 hrs, along the Patani-Ughelli Expressway, near the Unenurhei axis, operatives of CP Special Assignment Team in a sting operation raided the hideout of Solomon Danisco aka “Picolo”, Nelson Jacob, Oruma Saturday, Olise Jude, Precious Urhobowin, Whisky Rufus, aka “Asawana”, a native of Ewu community.

    “During the operation, the suspects, heavily armed, engaged the operatives in a fierce gun duel during which the suspects and their gang members sustained serious gunshot injuries. They were taken to the hospital, where six of them were confirmed dead while two others are still receiving treatment. Exhibit recovered includes four (4) locally-made guns and nineteen (19) rounds of live cartridges.”

  • HOSTCOM Youths Council applauds Tinubu over award of oil block to Delta industrialist

    HOSTCOM Youths Council applauds Tinubu over award of oil block to Delta industrialist

    The Host Communities Producing Oil, Gas and Pipeline Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria and its Board of Trustees have expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the award of an oil block to High Chief Henry Ojogho, founder of Broron Oil & Gas Group and a distinguished son of the Niger Delta.

    A statement by Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, the National President of HOSTCOM Youths Council, expressed appreciation for the transparency and integrity demonstrated in the 2024 Oil Mining Licence (OML) bid process, which led to the award of the oil block to Chief Ojogho. 

    Pathfinder hailed Ojogho as a distinguished son of the Niger Delta, known for his contributions as a technocrat, industrialist, and philanthropist. 

    He said his leadership at Broron Oil and Gas Group is highlighted, particularly regarding the employment of an indigenous workforce and initiatives that support local capacity building.

    He underscored the necessity for local content development in the oil and gas sector, aligning with the Nigerian Content Act of 2010 and advocated for reforms that empower indigenous operators in the industry.

    Pathfinder said the efforts of the industrialist through the Henry Ojogho Foundation (HOF) to empower the youth in Isoko land, particularly in education and mentorship, are emphasised as crucial initiatives for grassroots development.

    He recollected Ojogho’s role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement and that his alliance with President Tinubu reinforced their shared commitment to national unity and economic progress.

    Read Also: HOSTCOM to Tinubu: disregard allegations against NNPCL’s GCEO Ojulari 

    The HOSTCOM youths boss acknowledged the economic and security challenges facing Nigeria as inherited issues from previous administrations, rather than problems created by the current leadership under President Tinubu.

    He urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu in his governance efforts, noting his past successes in transforming Lagos State and his commitment to carrying out his mandate even amidst difficulties.

    He expressed  solidarity with President Tinubu and Ojogho and advocated for more robust involvement of local players in the oil and gas sector while addressing the challenges inherited from past governance.

  • UK-based group to induct Itsekiri language teachers in 74 Delta schools

    UK-based group to induct Itsekiri language teachers in 74 Delta schools

    In a major push to preserve the Itsekiri language from extinction, Ugbajo Itsekiri, United Kingdom, will on Friday, June 27, induct language teachers into 74 public primary and secondary schools across Delta State.

    The group’s President, Mr. Mejebi Eyewuoma, revealed this during a virtual media briefing in Warri, noting that the teachers will be engaged under the initiative’s employment scheme, aimed at reviving interest in the Itsekiri language among young learners.

    He credited the success of the programme to the strong support from the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Atuwatse III, and his wife, Olori Atuwatse III, and cautioned against sidelining traditional institutions in the promotion of indigenous languages.

    Eyewuoma lamented the growing trend of prioritising English over native languages in many homes. “This issue is not peculiar to the Itsekiri people; it affects the Yoruba and Igbo as well. Everyone wants their child to speak fluent English, often at the expense of their mother tongue,” he said.

    He pointed to the undervaluing of indigenous language education and the lack of viable career prospects as key reasons for the decline.

    Read Also: Atiku’s ambition has impacted negatively on Niger Delta, unity – Eradiri

    “Many people don’t see language teaching as a sustainable profession. That perception must change,” he said.

    Eyewuoma expressed hope that the presence of Itsekiri language teachers in schools will inspire a new generation of scholars.

    “We believe this initiative will spark interest. In five to 10 years, we hope to build an army of Itsekiri language scholars,” he added.

    To broaden access, the group is also exploring the use of information technology to make language learning more appealing and accessible.

    Eyewuoma noted that the initiative has received the approval of relevant government authorities, with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressing support for the programme.

    He urged communities to welcome and assist the teachers when they begin work.

    While the project is starting in public schools, he disclosed that some private schools have also shown interest.

    He assured that teaching materials, including textbooks and curriculum guides, are ready for immediate deployment.

  • Delta APC UK chapter celebrates Gov. Oborevwori at 62, applauds leadership, infrastructure strides

    Delta APC UK chapter celebrates Gov. Oborevwori at 62, applauds leadership, infrastructure strides

    The United Kingdom chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Delta State, has extended warm congratulations to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, on his 62nd birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose calm but resolute leadership continues to drive progress across the state.

    In a goodwill message jointly signed by the chapter’s Chairman, Barr. Lucky A. Gbenedio, and other executive members including, Jude Bakpa, Pastor Sheddy Okpako, Ms. Bimbo Susu James, and Mrs. Maggi Idris Faruk Jr., the group praised the Governor’s inclusive governance style and unwavering commitment to the upliftment of all Deltans irrespective of political affiliations.

    According to the statement in London on Thursday, the Delta APC UK Chapter noted that Governor Oborevwori’s bold infrastructure development drive and grassroots-focused initiatives under the MORE Agenda have begun to significantly transform the socio-economic landscape of the state. The group highlighted key road projects, educational infrastructure, and urban renewal programs as examples of purposeful governance.

    “Governor Oborevwori’s leadership has transcended political lines. What we are witnessing is a governor who is focused on service delivery, stability, and the long-term growth of Delta State. His humility, accessibility, and deep understanding of the needs of the people are admirable,” the executives noted.

    The UK-based Delta APC leaders emphasized that the governor’s achievements so far in the areas of peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and healthcare infrastructure demonstrate that Delta is in the hands of a leader with both the will and capacity to deliver. They further encouraged him to sustain the tempo of development and widen the scope of consultation across the diaspora.

    Read Also: Ibori Golf Club launches Governor’s Cup for  Oborevwori at 62

    While pledging their readiness to collaborate with the Governor in areas of diaspora engagement, economic development, investment promotion, and skills transfer, the APC UK executives assured that the chapter would continue to mobilize support for policies and programs that place the interests of Delta people first. They stated that good governance deserves recognition and non-partisan encouragement.

    “As Deltans in the diaspora, we recognize progress when we see it. We are proud of the achievements of His Excellency and are confident that he will do even more in the years ahead. We stand ready to support and contribute to his vision for a greater Delta,” the statement added.

    The Delta APC UK Chapter prayed for Governor Oborevwori’s good health, divine wisdom, and continued courage to steer the affairs of the state. They called on all Deltans, at home and abroad, to join hands in building a prosperous and united state, anchored on peace, equity, and development.

  • Onitsha domestic worker flees with employer’s vehicle, sells off in Delta

    Onitsha domestic worker flees with employer’s vehicle, sells off in Delta

    Police in Anambra State have arrested a domestic worker for allegedly stealing a black Toyota Camry belonging to his employer in Federal Housing area of Onitsha, the commercial city of the state.

    Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Monday said the suspect, identified as Divine Nnalue was arrested by Operatives attached to the 33 Police Station following tip off.

    He said the suspect, during interrogation, confessed selling the car to an unidentified person. 

    He added that efforts were on for possible recovery of the vehicle and arrest of others involved in the act. 

    According to him: “Police Operatives attached to the 33 Police Station in the late evening of 13th June 2025, acting on an intelligence-driven investigation, arrested one Mr. Divine Ifeanyi Nnalue at Ugbeji – Okpanam very close to Asaba in Delta State. 

    “The suspect is a domestic worker who allegedly stole a black Toyota Camry with Reg No: ENU 289 JF belonging to his employer at Trinity Avenue, Federal Housing in 33. 

    “During the interrogation, the suspect confessed to having sold the car to an unidentified person. 

    “Given the revelations of the suspect, the Operatives are working on the information for possible recovery of the vehicle and arrest of the other persons involved in the criminal act. 

    “This arrest highlights the Police Command’s ability to track down and bring to justice individuals who breach trust and commit crimes. 

    “It also demonstrates the Command’s commitment to protecting citizens’ properties and upholding the law.”