As Delta State marks its 33rd anniversary today, prominent voices across the state have expressed views on the progress and appreciable development achieved since its creation on August 27, 1991.
From government officials to academics, spiritual leaders, and local government executives, a consensus has emerged on celebrating Delta’s strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare, among others.
Reflecting on the journey so far, these Deltans also outlined areas for further improvement, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the state.
According to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Deltans have a lot to celebrate as the state has, within the past 33 years, recorded significant strides.
The Speaker, in his goodwill message to Deltans on the celebration, said that the state’s journey as a distinct entity, has been very fulfilling and and rewarding.
The speaker, who conveyed a heartfelt goodwill message to Deltans through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, acknowledged the resilience and determination of the people..
Rt. Hon. Guwor, who represents Warri South West in the House and the National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria, paid glowing tributes to the visionaries that fought for the creation of the state and the leaders who have guided the people thus far.
He said: “Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in our state’s history, the 33rd anniversary of the creation of Delta State. On this day, August 27, 1991, our state was born, and we began our journey as a distinct entity.
“I congratulate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori who by the mercy of God and with the massive support from Deltans, is presiding over the 33rd anniversary of the creation of the state as Governor. I also congratulate the people of Delta State for the unique unity of purpose, bonds of love and friendship over these years”.
Rt. Hon.Guwor reflected on the progress made and the challenges it has overcome as an indivisible entity, and stressed that the State has grown from a fledgling state to a thriving hub of commerce, industry, and culture.
“As Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, I acknowledge the resilience and determination of our people, who have made Delta State a beacon of hope and opportunity.
“As we celebrate this anniversary, I, on behalf of the State Legislature and in synergy with His Excellency, recommit ourselves to building a brighter future for our state. We will continue to work tirelessly to enact laws that would address the needs of the people, promote economic growth, and uphold the principles of justice and equality”, Guwor stated.
While wishing Deltans happy 33 anniversary celebration, the Speaker prayed to God to bless the state and guide the people towards a prosperous tomorrow.
…Delta Worthy Model For Other States –Osuoza
On his part, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, described Delta as a model for other states in Nigeria to emulate.
In an interview with The Pointer, Dr.Osuoza praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s strides in infrastructure, healthcare, education, social welfare, and security, noting that these achievements have positioned Delta as a leading state in the country.
The state’s spokesman emphasized that Delta has not only met but exceeded the expectations of its founding fathers. He pointed out that the state has consistently competed favourably with other states in Nigeria, excelling in education, sports, and other human endeavours.
Reflecting on the achievements of the current administration, Dr. Osuoza expressed satisfaction with the progress made under Governor Oborevwori, especially considering the challenging economic conditions nationwide.
He attributed the state’s success to the governor’s comprehensive and strategic approach to development, which includes a robust list of projects and initiatives aimed at empowering more Deltans, particularly women and youths.
Looking ahead, Dr. Osuoza urged Deltans to continue supporting the administration as it delivers on its promises. He reassured Deltans that Governor Oborevwori remains focused on enhancing the state’s growth and development.
….Founding Fathers Would Be Proud Of Our Progress -Tonukari
Also, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof Nyerhovwo Tonukari has expressed confidence that the state’s founding fathers would be proud of the significant progress achieved over the years. Reflecting on the state’s journey since its creation, Prof Tonukari highlighted the remarkable strides in infrastructure, education, and human development.
“Delta State is a very enterprising state,” Prof Tonukari said. “The dream was for it to be like a mini-country within Nigeria, where we have the expertise to achieve significant development strides. I can say that we have largely realized the dreams of the state’s founders.”
He emphasized that in a country like Nigeria, with its numerous states alongside the federal government, each state should focus on its development and contribute to the nation as a whole.
“You don’t always have to rely on the Federal Government to decide what to do. A state can be well-developed and still contribute to national development. That’s what each state should strive for, and Delta State has all it takes,” he said.
ProfTonukari underscored the state’s achievements, particularly in infrastructure and human development, noting that Delta State’s road network and infrastructure were among the best in the country. He expressed his belief that the founding fathers of the state would be proud of the accomplishments made so far.
He also praised the current administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, particularly for its focus on education, which he described as key to meaningful development and opportunities. According to ProfTonukari, the governor’s commitment to expanding higher education institutions in the state is creating more opportunities for students to gain the skills necessary for future success.
He urged the people of Deltans to take full advantage of these educational opportunities, which are designed to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the modern world.
…A Thousand Reasons To Celebrate
–Nwaebuni
The South-South Officer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), DcnChuxNwaebuni, yesterday, said that at 33, Deltans have a plethora of reasons to celebrate.
According to DcnNwaebuni, Delta has enjoyed enduring peace, and all-round development in terms of infrastructure and human capital. “From Chief Felix Ibru’s tenure in 1992 till the present administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, there has been a steady growth in all ramifications.
‘’However, we have not achieved our full potential as a 33-year-old state. There is a lot more to be done. Accordingly, more effort should be made to alleviate the hardship brought upon the citizenry by the current economic dynamics nationwide, especially the rural poor; the opening of rural roads, creation of jobs and skills development for youths, enhanced power supply and rejigging of the state’s security apparatus to arrest the increasing incidents of robbery and kidnapping, particularly in urban areas’’, he said.
….Delta Has Made Appreciable Progress, But –Varsity Don
Alsom expressing his views, an Associate Professor with Delta State University (DELSU),Abraka, Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Patrick Ijeh said that Delta State has made progress in the area of urban and rural development.
According to Ijeh, the state capital, Asaba and some other major cities in the state, as well as many minor communities have witnessed tremendous transforms with access roads, electricity and other basic amenities.
He also said that the State made progress in basic, secondary and tertiary education as new primary, secondary, and technical colleges, polytechnics and universities were established and existing ones upgraded.
Speaking on wealth creation, Ijeh opined that job creation, through direct employment and skill acquisition training and empowerment, needed to be improved upon.
… At 33, Delta Now Adult State -Okubor
The Chief Strategist to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Dr. Festus Okuborattributed Delta’s progress to uninterrupted leadership and stable governance.
In an exclusive interview with The Pointer, Dr.Okubor travelled memory lane to the humble beginnings of the state when it was created on August 27, 1991 from a demerger of the now defunct Bendel State.
Okubor highlighted significant developments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, agriculture and other sectors over the past 33 years. He emphasized that these advancements were made possible due to the successive administrations’ focus on maintaining peace and stability.
According to him, ‘’there are lots of benefits in continuity. Delta is one state that has benefitted massively from the stability of governance. Today, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is doing a yeoman’s job in Warri; clover bridges, flyovers, and beautiful roads undertaken at immense cost by Julius Berger.
‘’So, we are hoping that in another one or two years, Asaba, Warri, Agbor, and Sapele will be comparable to other cities around the world. As a policy in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, we refrained from benchmarking Delta against any other state in Nigeria because we thought we should compete on the global stage’’
Describing Delta after 33 years, he said ‘’Delta has witnessed a lot of growth, and development. If Delta was a human being, it would be judged as an adult. Therefore, I can say that Delta State has become an adult state in Nigeria. We are no longer a baby state in Nigeria. Everything is set to live as adults live.
‘’Facilities have been put in place. The only direction now for us is up. We are lucky to have at least 10 cities that can compare with the capitals of other states in Nigeria; Asaba, Warri, Ogwashi-Uku, Agbor, Ughelli, Sapele, Kwale, Orerokpe, Oghara.
‘’Each of these towns can compete with many state capitals around Nigeria and to have been able to develop them simultaneously is not a small achievement’’ Chief Okubor said, adding that more work would be done, particularly in riverine areas to further reflect the MORE agenda of the current administration.
… Delta No Longer A Baby State
–Ebolum
The Founder and President of Dominion Christian Center (Reign Cathedral), Bishop Kenneth Ebolum has said that Delta, if likened to a 33-year-old man, is no longer a baby.
In a chat with The Pointer, Bishop Ebolum affirmed that the State and her citizens have made tremendous progress in infrastructures, education, and integration of its various ethnic diversities.
Ebolum said: “Several universities, both private and public, have been built across the senatorial districts, as well as roads and other landmark projects by government, corporate bodies, and individuals”.
He noted that the State’s suburban towns are morphing into big cities, adding that the State has become a business hub. “However, with the development, security challenges have become a nightmare as hoodlums, kidnappers and prostitution have increased. The government should pay more attention to this segment of society. But overall, it’s been good and steady growth for Delta State”, he stressed.
…Has Benefitted From Continuity
– Funkekeme Speaks
The Special Adviser to Governor, Hon Funkekeme Solomon has said that Delta State has made significant progress since her creation in 1991 in almost all facets of development.
Funkekeme noted that the oil-rich State has witnessed remarkable advancement in the area of peace and security, ethnic integration and trust, and has also recorded growth in physical infrastructure, health, education and other sectors of human endeavour.
“From Ibru to Ibori; Uduaghan; Okowa and now Oborevwori, the state has been blessed with good, committed and competent administrators who have consistently built on the strides of their predecessors by emphasising continuity as the hallmark of governance”, he acknowledged.
The former lawmaker and Commissioner for Works said “With four universities, an international Airport, nine Technical Colleges, amongst others, the State has come of age. With the MORE Agenda, industrialisation will be pursued vigorously”.
…Delta Has Enjoyed Superb Leadership –Aniocha North LG Chairman
The Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Chinye, yesterday, said that Delta as a State has made impressive progress 33 years since its creation on August 27 1991.
Chinye, in an exclusive chat with The Pointer, noted that there has been steady progress, especially since the return of democratic regimes on May 29, 1999, adding that those who had superintended over the State laid landmark legacies.
While congratulating Deltans, Hon.Chinye commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whom he described as the ‘Infrastructure Master’, adding that the governor has done a lot within the short period he assumed office.
He explained that more developmental projects, programmes, policies and initiatives are underway for the benefit of Deltans.
…Apena Congratulates Oborevwori, Deltans
The Chairman, Delta State Technical and Vocational Board, Dcns Phil Apena said that Delta has continued to make progress with progressive-minded administrators manning the State’s affairs.
She explained, in a chat with The Pointer, that the state remained a top-notch in infrastructural developments, especially in education.
Among other things, Apena noted that the state launched into skill acquisition via the establishment of technical and vocational institutions across the various local government areas.
She advocated that the technical and vocational board be given serious attention by ensuring that its trainees are empowered with starter packs to set up their businesses.
Apena added that the interest the trainees demonstrated by going through the program for six months was an indicator of their determination to become self-reliant and contribute to the State’s economic development.
The Technical and Vocational Board Chairman, thanked Governor Oborevwori for subsiding the institution’s training fee and collaborating with the nation’s First Lady to empower traders, adding that it would go a long way to ameliorate suffering and alleviate poverty in the State.
…Delta Has Witnessed Tremendous Progress – Clark
Meanwhile, the Honourable Commissioner, Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development (DRID), Hon Ebikeme Clark has extended warm congratulations to the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and Deltans on the 33rd anniversary of the creation of oil rich Delta State.
The Commissioner. in a statement. lauded the transparent and proactive leadership of the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, attributing the state’s remarkable progress to his dedicated governance.
“Your Excellency, our state has witnessed tremendous progress under your watch”, Hon. Clark stated.
“Since you assumed office, it has been evident that you are committed to propelling Delta State to new heights. We take immense pride in your leadership as we celebrate this significant milestone”, he added.
The honourable commissioner highlighted the governor’s strategic vision and preparedness, which have been pivotal in the state’s development journey.
He expressed confidence that history would remember Governor Oborevwori’s tenure favorably for the substantial advancements being made under his administration.
“As we mark the 33rd anniversary of Delta State’s creation, we, in the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development, join millions of Deltans in celebrating this auspicious occasion,” Hon. Clark continued.
“Our Directorate recently established by you to spearhead the development of riverine communities, is a testament to your commitment to inclusive growth and progress.”
Hon. Clark emphasized the collective joy and pride felt by the people of Delta State as they commemorate this landmark event.
… Delta Has Witnessed Steady Progress, Says Otirhue
The Chairman of Delta State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), Hon. (Dcn) Joseph Otirhue has described the state as one that has attained progress in the past 33 years of existence. Otirhue said this while speaking with our reporter in Asaba.
He said 33 years after creation, evidence of the quality leadership of the past state governors was feasible as the state has been transformed in many ways. The chairman said the infrastructural development, human capital development, upgrading of the educational sector, amongst others are some of the progress that have been recorded in the state so far.
While thanking God for another year of celebration, Otirhue said the state government has improved on the lives of local government workers by ensuring that they intervened when the local government could not pay workers’ salaries, adding that the state government intervened by releasing more than N5 billion to assist the councils. He said the state government has played a great role in ensuring that workers received their salaries without delay and payment of promotion arrears.
While commending the past local government chairmen, he said about 80 percent of them performed well in their various councils by bringing development to the grassroots in line with the MORE agenda of the state governor.
While commemorating with Deltans on the occasion of the state’s 33 years’ anniversary, the Commission’s Chairman admonished all Deltans to support the agenda of the governor through prayers.
…Testament Of Progress, Resilience
‘’Delta State has emerged as a shining example of progress and potential. Strategic investments in infrastructure have transformed the state’s landscape, unlocking economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing connectivity’’. This is the submission of a Deltan, Prof. Mrs Agatha Ihenacho, who said “From road networks to bridges, urban renewal to waterways, and energy upgrades, the state’s infrastructure revolution has been a game-changer. Cities like Asaba, Warri, and Effurun have been transformed into thriving modern hubs, attracting businesses and investment.” But Delta State’s journey is far from over. Despite notable achievements in education and healthcare, challenges persist. Security concerns, environmental degradation, and social inequality must be addressed to ensure sustainable development and inclusive growth, she stated.
Another Delta-based businessman, Mr. Charles Okemba said to make more progress, the state must prioritize further investments like maintenaning and upgrading of existing infrastructure, expansion of rural infrastructure, development of industrial parks and economic zones, enhancement of digital infrastructure and sustaining urban planning He noted that, “All hands should be on deck, both the government, stakeholders, and citizens needs to drive sustainable growth, create opportunities, and solidify Delta State’s position as a hub for economic development and innovation.”
However, Delta celebrate successes but need to learn from setbacks, and adapt strategies for continuous improvement to attain brighter future, he said.
