BY RITA OYIBOKA
JUST as a child’s tentative first step marks a momentous occasion, brimming with anticipation and hope, so too did Governor Sherriff Oborevwori’s inaugural year in office represent an expected leap toward a radiant future for Delta State. With the ambitious MORE Agenda as his compass, the governor has navigated the intricate terrain of leadership, embracing calculated risks along the way. As the State celebrates three hundred and sixty-five days since these momentous beginnings, it’s only fitting to pause and contemplate the path they have forged for the people of Delta.
Infrastructural Development
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has made many significant strides during his first year in office. He kick started a multitude of projects across all sectors that have the potential to completely revamp the economy of Delta State and improve the lives of its people. Oborevwori proudly shared during his one year anniversary thanksgiving in Asaba that his administration has transformed the state into a bustling construction hub, with a whopping 317 road projects currently underway. Out of these projects, 76 roads spanning a total of 171.49km and 85.30km of drains have been initiated under his leadership.
It is no gainsaying that the Oborevwori administration is making waves with the N78bn Julius Berger three flyovers project in Effurun and Warri, set to wrap up in 27 months. Meanwhile, various road projects have been completed or are nearing completion, including Trans-Warri-Ode-Itsekiri Bridges and Otolokpo/ Ute-Okpu/Ekuku Agbor/Ndemili/Obeti/Umutu Road rehabilitation.
Civil Service Reforms
In his first year in office, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has revolutionized the Civil Service, implementing sweeping reforms to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Recognizing the crucial role of civil servants, he has fulfilled his pre-election promises, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to their growth and development.
Governor Oborevwori within months in office approved the payment of approximately ₦5.5 billion in promotion arrears to 23,887 public personnel and 362 retirees, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
To alleviate the financial difficulties caused by the termination of the fuel subsidy, Oborevwori also sanctioned a three-month ex-gratia stipend of ₦10,000 for each of Delta’s 40,168 civil servants, likewise rotating work schedules to provide relief for the state’s unsung heroes.
Understanding the importance of the Head of Civil Service, the Governor further approved the enrollment of 200 officers in a seven-week senior management course, in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON).
The administration’s dedication to lifelong learning is evident in its collaboration with ASCON and the approval of inter-cadre transfers and orientation programs, benefiting 227 officers directly and 1,250 others who received specialized training. Study leaves were also initiated to encourage academic endeavours and professional growth.
To address manpower gaps in critical sectors, t h e MORE c h amp i o n authorized the hiring of over 3,000 teaching and non-teaching staff from all 25 local governments and medical professionals for state-owned hospitals. Even the 27 ministries housed in the Professor Chike Edozien Complex have been given top priority in terms of comfort and security, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to creating a conducive work environment for civil servants.
Education and Empowerment
The Sheriff Oborevwori administration has demonstrated its commitment to supporting the educational pursuits of Delta State students, with the successful disbursement of the 2022/2023 bursary award to 30,116 beneficiaries. This significant achievement marks a major milestone in the administration’s efforts to provide opportunities for all, as enshrined in the MORE agenda.
In an interview, the President of the National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU), Comr. Monday Wiska, lauded Oborevwori as a listening Governor who is attentive to the concerns of state students.
“His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O Oborevwori is known for listening to the concerns of the state students and prioritizing their interest as reflected in disbursement of the bur sary awards . By investing in students’ education, the government i s making a s t rong statement about the value it placed on the development of the youth and the overall progress of society,” he said.
The administration’s inve s tment ex tends beyond formal education to include the informal sector, ensuring that Delta’s youth are adequately prepared for the workforce and empowered to pursue self-employment opportunities.
During the 2024 State Children’s Day Celebration, the Commissioner of Women’s Affairs, Community, and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua highlighted the Governor’s efforts to enhance not only formal education but also vocational training in the state.
“It has become very essential for our children to acquire a skill in addition to their education to keep “their heads above water” in this economy which informs the commendable strides by the Delta State Government in ensuring quality education for our children and the vocational training for over 20,000 Deltans.
“The Oborevwori administration have also structured the educational system as a state, to accommodate technical training and we currently have 9 Technical Colleges in Delta State. This is to ensure that our children are exposed to technical education from the secondary level,” she said.
The empowerment efforts expand further. Recently, over N500 million was disbursed to more than 5,000 Deltans as grants to support their businesses.
Governor Sheriff Oborevweri personally presented the cheques during the launch of the MORE Grant Scheme in Asaba.
He emphasized that this initiative constitutes a holistic support system aimed at empowering 5,426 Deltans. The beneficiaries, including petty traders, artisans, and female entrepreneurs, received support ranging from N100,000 to N150,000 each.
In his words, “Your hard work, creativity and perseverance are the driving force behind the vibrancy and resilience of our local communities. As we recognize your invaluable contributions, I reaffirm the state government’s commitment and willingness to support your endeavours.
“The MORE Grant Scheme represents a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change, as the programme provides critical resources that will help you scale up your businesses, and improve your livelihoods.
“To our petty traders from poor and vulnerable households, despite the daily struggles of life, you have continued to strive for a better future for your families and communities through your small businesses.
“As a show of faith, the MORE Grant Scheme will continue to provide you with the financial assistance necessary to improve your businesses, as we remain committed to turning small ventures into flourishing enterprises, thereby improving the quality of life of our people and contributing to the economic growth of our state.”
He said the grant being given out will help them acquire better tools, access quality materials, and reach wider markets, which will, in turn, take the rich traditions of our people to new heights.
Healthcare and Sanitation
Recognizing the profound impact of health on prosperity, the state administration intensified its efforts to tackle drug abuse and counterfeit products. It established over 90 Drug-Free Clubs in secondary schools, conducted extensive awareness campaigns in communities, motor parks, and markets, and engaged in advocacy visits to key ministries.
The State Task Force on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs sealed over 150 illegal premises and initiated prosecutions with NAFDAC’s support. Additionally, the Pharmaceutical Inspection Committee inspected 200 pharmaceutical premises and 426 patent medicine stores, ensuring compliance with standards.
Under the State Traditional Medicine Board, initiatives such as cultivating Dika nuts, providing tools for botanical gardens, and training traditional birth attendants were implemented. Furthermore, the board registered traditional medicine practitioners and homes/clinics. Recently, the state launched the HPV Vaccination Exercise on Children’s Day, offering free vaccination to girls aged 9-14 to combat cervical cancer in Delta.
Responding to Delta State’s sanitation challenges, Governor Oborevwori also initiated a bold strategy by appointing a team of Environmental Marshals and Supervisors. This proactive step underscores the urgent call for cleanliness and environmental stewardship throughout the region.
Citizens Voices
While the governor’s achievements are commendable, citizens like Mr Emma Okoro, a businessman in Asaba, expect more: “The governor has done well, but the people of Delta need more job opportunities and economic empowerment programs to reduce poverty and unemployment. It is not just about handouts but investing in sustainable job generating schemes at the same time making the state conducive for entrepreneurs and that starts with addressing the epileptic power supply in the region,” he said
Speaking with a correspondent, a Director of the State Ministry of Urban Renewal who spoke anonymously urged the state government to fulfill its obligations to workers.
“There are diverse policies to advance the socio-economic life of the public and civil servants but its implementation especially in developing climes like ours is the problem.
“While the workers should translate the ethics of their profession into urban governance, and mobilize moral ethics and values into their ministries and agencies, the state government has to wake up to their responsibilities.
“The move by other state governments to increase their minimum wages is laudable. Delta State should consider doing same considering the high cost of living,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Grace Igho, an Okpanam resident decried the high level of insecurity. She said, “Governor Oborevwori has maintained peace and order in the state, but more action is needed to address the ongoing issue of armed robberies on Okpanam Road. Residents in newly built/renovated houses on this road are being targeted repeatedly, forcing many to sleep away from home for safety.
“Recently in my neighbourhood, a ‘Dyna’ truck without a license plate even ordered residents to load their belongings into the vehicle. Furthermore, police officers in the area are not patrolling effectively, instead remaining on main roads while criminals roam free in the street. It is not just about banning motorcycles and metal scavengers but actively cracking down on these individuals.”
Just as a child who takes their first step is expected to go on to walk, run jump and tackle life’s challenges as they come, Governor Oborevwori’s successful first year in office sets the stage for even greater accomplishments. With the MORE Agenda, Deltans expect him to build on this momentum and continue delivering progress for the people of Delta State.
