Tag: Oborevwori

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has announced the reconstruction of the ECN Road, vowing to end years of hardship faced by residents, commuters and businesses along the corridor.

He said the intervention became necessary after sustained public complaints over the road’s deplorable condition, which has crippled movement and economic activities in the area.

Oborevwori assured the residents that the project would be executed to standard and completed within a defined timeline.

The governor made the announcement yesterday at Orhuwhorun in Udu Local Government Area, noting that the project aligns with his administration’s MORE Agenda, which places infrastructure at the heart of security, commerce and improved living standards in the state.

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The governor also highlighted recent achievements of his administration, noting that the Udu Harbour Market, which was first awarded about 18 years ago, would soon be inaugurated.

Charging political office holders and community leaders to embrace servant leadership, Oborevwori stressed that no leader is above the people they serve, adding that leadership must be anchored on humility, accountability and loyalty to the electorate.

“There is no local government where I don’t have leaders. You cannot say because you are a governor that you are all in all. No. You must be loyal to your people because we are only serving them,” the governor said.

Speaking on legacy, Oborevwori commended Sir Sheba Palama for honouring his parents through the memorial celebration, describing the gesture as a noble act that preserves family values and legacy.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has extended warm and heartfelt felicitations to revered elder statesman, community leader, and political patriarch, Chief Godwin Ogbetuo, on the occasion of his 96th birth anniversary, describing him as one of the enduring moral pillars of Delta State’s political history.

In a goodwill message issued on Saturday through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori praised Chief Ogbetuo for a lifetime defined by principled leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to good governance and accountability.

He described the nonagenarian as a rare symbol of integrity, patriotic service, and disciplined political conduct whose influence transcends generations.

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The Governor noted that Chief Ogbetuo’s long years of service in public life have left indelible marks on the political, social, and economic evolution of Delta State, stressing that his voice of wisdom, moderation, and conscience has continued to guide leaders even outside the corridors of power.

According to Oborevwori, Chief Ogbetuo represents a brand of leadership rooted in selflessness, moral clarity, and deep commitment to the common good—values that remain urgently needed in contemporary governance.

He added that the elder statesman’s exemplary life continues to inspire present officeholders and serves as a benchmark for emerging leaders navigating the complex terrain of public service.

The governor prayed for God’s continued strength, sound health, and peace for Chief Ogbetuo, expressing optimism that his counsel and legacy would remain a stabilising force in Delta State’s political and communal life.

The governor stated: “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I warmly felicitate our revered father and leader, Chief Godwin Ogbetuo, as he marks his 96th birthday.

“You have distinguished yourself as a patriot and elder statesman whose steadfast dedication to humanity and public service has contributed immensely to the growth, stability and progress of Delta state and Nigeria.

“As former Chairman of the Delta Elders and Leaders Forum, you offered purposeful leadership marked by rare insight and courage.”

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising road safety over punitive sanctions in addressing recurring accidents involving articulated trucks, particularly near the Ubu Bridge axis in Ogwashi-Uku along the newly constructed Ughelli–Asaba dual carriageway.

The State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the government is set to implement firm and targeted measures to curb the rising number of accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles along the corridor.

According to the Commissioner, the Oborevwori administration’s strategy focuses on strengthening safety enforcement rather than imposing restrictions that could disrupt the free flow of goods and services. Planned interventions include stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, enhanced speed monitoring, and improved operational checks on articulated trucks using the route.

Izeze also called for collective responsibility in preventing future accidents, appealing to professionals, road safety experts, and concerned members of the public to voluntarily contribute practical, public-spirited suggestions aimed at achieving zero accidents on the affected stretch.

He stressed that the appeal was not for consultancy services, but for genuine contributions focused on saving lives and preserving the road infrastructure.

Read Also: 2026: Oborevwori salutes Deltans, reaffirms commitment to more developments

He explained that the renewed safety drive followed a series of accidents involving articulated trucks on the corridor, which have raised concerns among motorists and residents despite the road’s recent completion and improved aesthetics.

The Commissioner revealed that the most recent incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, bringing the total number of recorded articulated truck accidents on the Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba stretch to seventeen (17) since the road was completed.

The accident occurred near the Ubu Bridge, an area characterised by smooth pavement and a modern drainage system designed to channel runoff from the surrounding Ogwashi-Uku hills into drains leading to the Ubu River.

Eyewitnesses said the truck lost control while approaching the bridge, tilted, and partially obstructed the carriageway. No casualties were recorded.

The driver reportedly attributed the incident to mechanical failure, claiming that the truck’s gear selector failed to engage a lower gear while navigating the bridge approach.

He dismissed suggestions of fatigue, describing the occurrence as an act of destiny.

However, the explanation has done little to ease public concern, given the frequency of similar accidents on the same stretch of road.

The Commissioner further said: “Despite the installation of clearly visible warning signs and speed limit notices before and after the bridge on both approaches installed months ago at the directive of Governor Oborevwori, many articulated truck drivers continue to disregard traffic regulations.

“Governor Oborevwori has consistently maintained that the state must avoid actions that could be perceived as restricting the free movement of goods and services, in line with global best practices.

“His administration has therefore prioritised improved compliance, driver discipline, and road safety measures over outright restrictions on the movement of heavy-duty vehicles.”

The Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba corridor has emerged as one of the busiest interstate routes in the South-South region, serving as a major transit link for articulated trucks travelling from the North, East, and South-West through Asaba and Ughelli to Warri, Yenagoa, Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, and Calabar.

This heavy traffic has placed considerable pressure on the road, even as the project continues to attract commendation for its quality and contribution to regional connectivity.

Despite the incidents, residents have acknowledged the broader impact of Governor Oborevwori’s infrastructure drive, noting that the quality of the road reflects the administration’s commitment to people-centred governance.

As investigations into the latest accident continue, stakeholders have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, improved driver discipline, and sustained public awareness to ensure that the benefits of the road project are not undermined by avoidable mishaps.

• …as Delta monarch sues for peace, unity among Nigerians 

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has extended warm and heart-felt felicitations to Deltans as they usher in the Year 2026. 

He expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty for His protection, grace and sustaining presence over the people and the state throughout the past year.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor described the New Year as a season of renewed hope, fresh beginnings and collective responsibility. 

He urged citizens to draw strength from the lessons of the past and look forward to the future with optimism, courage and unity of purpose.

The governor acknowledged the sacrifices, resilience and patience displayed by Deltans, noting that the modest but impactful gains recorded across key sectors of the state were made possible by the people’s enduring spirit, peaceful disposition and shared commitment to progress.

Governor Oborevwori assured that the pains, hopes and aspirations of the people remained at the heart of his administration’s policies, reaffirming that in the New Year, government would deepen its focus on good governance, infrastructural renewal, job creation, youth empowerment, enhanced security and inclusive economic growth in line with the MORE Agenda.

He called on all residents to continue to shun violence, embrace peaceful coexistence and uphold the values of hard work, tolerance and patriotism, stressing that enduring peace remained the strongest foundation upon which sustainable development, prosperity and social harmony thrives.

The Governor appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration with the government, noting that the task of building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Delta State must be pursued as a shared responsibility.

Meanwhile, His Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, has urged Nigerians on peace, unity, and good neighbourliness, saying without them Nigeria’s dream of progress will remain out of reach in 2026.

In his New Year message, the revered first-class monarch declared that only a united and secure nation could unlock genuine socio-economic and political development, insisting that division and insecurity are enemies of growth.

The royal father, immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council (DSTRC) tasked those in power to act decisively by introducing bold, people-focused policies to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerians and return dignity to everyday life.

Obi Efeizomor II hailed Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he called a standout performance in governance, applauding his delivery of visible dividends of democracy through infrastructure renewal, urban transformation, citizen empowerment, and disciplined resource management.

Speaking to the traditional institution, the monarch issued a rallying cry to royal fathers across Delta State to stand united, stressing that only a common front will command public respect and safeguard the customs and traditions entrusted to them.

He urged political leaders to be more patriotic, lead by example and show more dedication in the task of building a  more humane, egalitarian and workable nation.

He tasked Nigerians not to  despair over the harsh economic situation in the country but look forward to a better and brighter  future.

Reflecting on 2025, the Owa king urged Nigerians to continue to display greater resilience and doggedness in facing the challenges of nation building. 

He advised Nigerian youths not to waver  in their faith in the country, saying that they should look up to the future with the determination to succeed in whatever field of human endeavour they find themselves.

On insecurity, the monarch called on the Federal Government to cooperate with the  United States in the effort to decisively   tackle the intractable cases of insurgency, banditry and other forms of  criminal activities bedeviling the nation. 

He commended the media  for living up to their constitutional responsibilities of being the watch dog of the nation,  urging them not to  relent on their role as the Fourth Estate of the realm.

The opening of the DSC Roundabout flyover in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, has garnered significant applause from residents, commuters, and local business operators.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who oversaw the project’s execution, has been commended for enhancing mobility and improving commerce in the area.

Constructed by the reputable engineering firm Julius Berger, this new infrastructure is being hailed as a transformative addition to urban life in Uvwie and Warri.

It is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, facilitate smoother transportation, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.

This landmark project represents a significant investment in the local infrastructure, promising to boost economic activities and improve the quality of life for residents.

Overall, the DSC Roundabout flyover stands as a testament to effective governance and forward-thinking urban planning.

A survey conducted along the project corridor showed that respondents unanimously agreed that the flyovers in DSC Roundabout, PTI Junction, Effurun Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction have brought unprecedented relief to an area long plagued by traffic congestion, deteriorated roads, and economic slowdown.

Many described the intervention as timely, impactful, and transformative, noting visible improvements in traffic flow, safety, business activities, and environmental outlook.

Mr. Shuaibu Aduku, a resident of the Nehemiah area who has lived in the neighbourhood for over 19 years, recounted the hardship commuters endured before the construction of the project.

“Before this work started, the road was in a terrible state. Movement was very difficult, especially during peak hours, and everything was stressful. You could spend hours just trying to cross this point,” Aduku recalled. “But now, with what we are seeing, everything has changed. Transportation is faster, business is faster, and life is generally easier. I give the governor 100 per cent kudos for this project,” he added.

Another resident, Mr. Abednego Osia, described the former condition of the road as unacceptable for a major urban centre like Effurun.

He said, “This road was very, very bad before due to traffic congestion, no two ways about it. There is simply no comparison between what it was and what we have now. Since Governor Oborevwori came on board, there has been a big change in Delta State, especially in this environment. The difference is clear for everyone to see. The man is truly doing well.”

On connectivity and ease of movement, Osia noted that the flyover had significantly reduced traffic bottlenecks and enhanced access to adjoining areas. “From this roundabout down to other parts of the town, movement is now free. The gridlock we used to experience here is gone. This flyover is a very good one, and the governor is really trying for the people,” he said.

Mrs. Vincent Miracle, a resident who lives close to the flyover, said the project has also positively affected social and religious activities in the area.

She said, “When I first came here, the traffic was so terrible that I don’t even know how to explain it. But now, the road has beautified our entire environment, including our church. Everywhere looks cleaner and more organised. We pray that God will give the governor more strength, wisdom, and good health to do even more for the people.”

For Mr. Victor Ayoro, the flyover is a reflection of purposeful leadership and people-focused governance. “First of all, I want to sincerely thank His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for the good work he is doing for Delta State. I will always continue to praise him for his efforts because not many administrations have delivered this level of development. If you look around today, you will see clear roads, better access, and improved safety. These things have really improved our daily lives,” he said.

Ayoro added that while he might not be able to list all the achievements of the administration, the impact of road infrastructure alone was evident.

He said: “The improvement on the roads has made movement easier and safer for residents. We can all see the positive changes. My message to the government is to keep doing more good work and also create more jobs for the people. We thank God for the progress so far, and we pray that God continues to bless the governor.”

An indigene of Uvwie, who gave her name only as Blessing, said the flyover had brought an end to years of hardship for residents and commuters in the area.

“This flyover will help us a lot. We were suffering before, but now we will begin to enjoy the benefits. Warri, Effurun, and its environs are looking very good. Everywhere is clean, neat, and organised. Honestly, I didn’t know we had such a good governor in Sheriff Oborevwori,” she said.

She further said: “May God continue to bless our dear governor for all the good things he is doing across Delta State. We pray that he will have more years to achieve even greater things. This place used to be jam-packed with traffic, but Governor Oborevwori has turned things around. We celebrate him as one of the best governors this state has ever had.”

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For business owners, the impact of the flyover has been even more pronounced. Mr. Akpobofene Akatuba, who has operated a business around the DSC–PTI Junction axis for over 14 years, said the project had revived economic activities in the area.

Akatuba said, “Calling the old road dilapidated is even an understatement. There was always gridlock, delays, and frustration. But today, this place has changed completely. You can even take pictures here and show people, and they will think you are abroad.”

According to him, the improved road network has attracted bigger businesses and increased customer patronage.

“Our business has improved massively. Bigger jobs are coming, more opportunities are opening up, and the overall quality of this place has changed for the better. We say a big thank you to the governor. His good works will continue to speak for him,” he said.

Overall, residents unanimously commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritising infrastructure development and urged him to sustain the momentum.

They noted that the DSC Roundabout flyover stands as a clear symbol of people-oriented governance, strategic urban renewal, and the administration’s commitment to easing the daily burden of residents while driving economic growth across Delta State.

• Hails veteran journalist, entrepreneur on birth anniversary

The Delta State Government has underscored its dedication to prioritizing the welfare and well-being of its citizens.

The Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, assured the citizens that quality projects would be at the forefront of governance in the state.

Ahon made the assurance yesterday during a courtesy visit from the Delta State Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at his residence in Ughelli.

Ahon emphasized that the Oborevwori administration is focused on delivering people-oriented governance, acknowledging the extensive infrastructural and developmental needs throughout the state.

He highlighted that the welfare of the citizens is a non-negotiable priority, which is essential for sustainable development.

He said this commitment is evidenced by various ongoing capital projects and social interventions designed to benefit the people of Delta State.

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The CPS said: “The governor has achieved more in two years than what some state administrations in the country accomplished in eight years. “These are enduring projects, projects designed to stand the test of time and outlive this generation. We owe Deltans real value for every project delivered by this administration, and that is exactly what the governor is delivering.”

He stressed that the administration had remained fiscally disciplined, noting that all projects were being executed without recourse to borrowing.

“The governor will not compromise the welfare of Deltans, and importantly, none of these projects is being funded through loans,” he added.

Ahon expressed appreciation to the NUJ leadership for the visit and appealed for sustained media partnership in promoting peace, stability and effective governance in the state.

He assured journalists of the government’s continued support, emphasising that development thrives best in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Earlier, Chairman of the Delta State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, said the visit was to express the union’s appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and for the CPS’s improved and inclusive support for journalists across the state.

Oyowe noted that the State Government’s recent gesture through the CPS reached all NUJ chapels in the state, describing it as unprecedented and deeply appreciated by members.

He appealed for the sustenance of the goodwill and reminded Ahon of the council’s pending requests for a utility bus and a 200kva step down transformer.

Meanwhile, the CPS has congratulated veteran journalist and businessman, Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ahon described Adebayo as an iconic and celebrated journalist whose career had left an indelible mark on the journalism profession in Nigeria.

He commended the veteran journalist for his outstanding contributions to the welfare and wellbeing of journalists as well as the NUJ, noting that his dedication, professionalism and entrepreneurial drive had played a significant role in the growth and development of journalism over the years.

Ahon also lauded Adebayo’s commitment to ethical journalism and mentorship, saying his legacy continues to inspire younger generations of media practitioners across the country.

He wished Adebayo many more years of good health, fulfilment and continued relevance, and prayed that his wealth of experience would remain a source of guidance and inspiration to the media industry and society at large.