BY FESTUS AHON
THE world is presently grappling with complex, multi-dimensional challenges that threaten its sustainability. Addressing these issues requires collective action from every member of society, particularly as the impacts of these problems, such as rising insecurity, become increasingly evident.
Security plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable development, as citizens can only thrive and innovate when they feel safe.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has made significant efforts to safeguard Deltans from the pervasive insecurity affecting the nation. Despite facing challenges such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and attacks by armed herders, the Delta State government has been proactive in combating these threats.
To bolster security and create an environment where citizens and investments can flourish, Governor Oborevwori on Monday donated 31 operational Hilux vans to “Operation ‘Delta Sweep’, a combined security task force in the state, enhancing their capacity to protect lives and property.
Governor Oborevwori, while presenting the vehicles in Asaba, to the Inspector -General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the gesture was to enhance the joint security operations in the state.
He said the donation was informed by the general insecurity being experienced in the country and urged the security agencies to collaborate and share intelligence to ensure effective security in the state.
He said: “In my MORE Agenda, I promised Deltans that we would enhance peace and security and, as part of this commitment, we are rebranding the operation formerly known as ‘Delta Hawk’ to ‘Operation Delta Sweep’ and this rebranding underscores our renewed focus and strategy.
“Without security, meaningful development cannot take place. We aim to create a secure environment where investors feel confident to come in and invest, ultimately improving the quality of life for our citizens and fostering harmony across the state.
“This joint security task force, established on December 10, 2020, as a policy response to rising violent crimes, comprises the Nigerian Army, Police Force, Air Force, Navy, DSS, and Civil Defense Corps.
“Since its inception, this initiative has recorded significant successes in combating crimes such as illegal oil bunkering, kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and drug-related offences.
“The rebranding reflects our administration’s resolve to reduce crime to its barest minimum. To support this effort, the state government has donated 31 vehicles, including 23 Hilux pickups and eight Sienna wagons, in addition to four Hilux vehicles previously delivered. This brings the fleet to 66 vehicles, aimed at enhancing daily patrols, especially during the ‘Ember’ Months.
“I trust this will boost the morale of task force members and motivate them to redouble their efforts to keep our state safe.
“We remain committed to providing the necessary support to ensure peace and security in Delta State. With these measures, I am confident that our people will enjoy a secure and peaceful season.”
The governor, who was also at the opening ceremony of Police Public Relations Officers/Police Communication Experts Conference in Asaba, noted that too often, misconceptions and unverified information about Delta State spread through social media, creating false impressions.
He said as Police Public Relations Officers, their role was vital in countering misinformation and fostering transparency, adding that the relationship between the police and the public is critical.
He pointed out that public engagement and effective communication were essential to bridging the gap and showcasing the incredible work the police were doing.
…Tasks Oil Companies, Host Communities On Dialogue
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged oil companies and host communities to adopt dialogue rather than confrontations in resolving disputes.
He gave the charge when he received on courtesy visit, the management of Chevron Nigeria Limited, led by Senior Corporate Affairs Advisor, Chevron International, Exploration and Production for Africa Region, Engr Esimaje Brikins, at Government House, Asaba.
The Governor, while congratulating Mr Esimaje Brikins on his new appointment, tasked his successor to understudy the operations and relationship with host communities and stakeholders.
He cautioned that he would not condone shutting down of oil facilities by host- communities, adding that he would also not tolerate oil companies oppressing the people.
…Presents Start Up Packs To 311 WESAP Beneficiaries
Also within the week, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori presented start up packs to 311 beneficiaries of the Women Economic Skill Acquisition Programme, WESAP, of the state government in his determination to expand the frontiers of entrepreneurial development in the state.
The beneficiaries were made up of 220 women trained in fashion and design, hair dressing, catering, decoration and event management and make up/gele tying and 91 persons with disabilities who were trained in ICT, confectionaries, fashion and design, leather work and industrial production.
Speaking at the ceremony held in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori said his administration was fully committed to empowering citizens of the state to overcome life’s challenges and achieve their full potential and happiness.
He disclosed that significant progress had been made in empowering Deltans within this year alone, adding that over 203,204 persons had benefitted from various empowerment platforms of the state government.
The Governor said 426 artisans, petty traders, and female entrepreneurs had been supported, pointing out that 6,000 farmers had received empowerment, with fertilizer distributed across the 25 local government areas of the state.
