2ND ANNIVERSARY Oborevwori Gives Account of Stewardship

2ND ANNIVERSARY: Oborevwori Gives Account of Stewardship

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…Earmarks 42 Projects for Inauguration

…Gets Confidence Vote, Commendation From Delta Assembly

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has earmarked 42 road projects for inauguration in celebration of his administration’s second year in office.

During his State of the State address at the State House of Assembly in Asaba on Wednesday, Governor Oborevwori unveiled several of the projects, including the 46-kilometre dualisation of the Ughelli–Asaba Road (Sectors C1 and C2), the Isheagu/Ewulu Road, and the Phase I bridge.

Other projects include the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Mariere Street in Boji-Boji Agbor, the construction of the Kwale–Beneku bridge and approach roads, and the reconstruction of Orhorhor, Chechester, and Benjamin Oseregbaje roads in Sapele.

He also mentioned the construction of roads around Otovwodo junction in Ughelli and the maintenance, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and construction of various roads in Effurun and Ekpan.

Further works include the reconstruction of failed sections of Central Hospital Road, rehabilitation of the link road between the hospital and Police Command Roads in Warri, and the rehabilitation of General Hospital Road with a spur to Police Command Road from Warri/Sapele Road to Ajamimogha/Mabiaku Link Road.

Others he listed include the rehabilitation of Esisi Road from Warri/Sapele Road to Estate Roundabout with a spur to Nana College Road linking Ajamimogha Road, and the reconstruction of Upper and Lower Erejuwa Roads in Warri.

Also listed for inauguration are the construction of internal roads in Kokori, Mudi Beach Street in Abraka, and the Uruagbesa Oria–Abraka Road, off Sapele–Abraka Road (Phase I). Other roads include; Itoma Road in Umeghe Umiagha–Abraka, General Hospital Road in Oghara, Idumu Etiti Street with a spur to Market Road in Owerre Olubor, and Mission Road/Ogboi Street with a spur to Ogwashi-Uku Road in Akumazi. Additional roads include Boji-Boji Owa/Otolokpo, Otekpo Road in Ellu Town, and the Okpolo-Enhwe–Uwheru Road (Phase III) in Okpolo-Enhwe–Uwheru Town.

Further projects include the Obi-Ibabu Road at Onicha-Ukwuani, Ohorhe/Adagbrass–Ugolo/Okuodiete Road, Ezesi Road in Orerokpe, Okan/Oviri–Agbarho/Orido Road in Agbarho, and the old Okpanam Road from Post Office junction through St. Michael’s Catholic Church Roundabout to Okpanam Bypass junction. There is also the access and internal road at the Headquarters of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Ibusa, Ichie James Obodoechi Avenue/Chikozie Okafor Road in Asaba, Okirighwre–Benin Road from Sapele–Warri Road to Gammon Bridge in Okirighwre, Sapele, and Arhavwarien Avenue in DSC Township, Udu.

More projects include Ododegho Road (Phase I) from Ekiugbo junction, off Ughelli–Patani Expressway in Ughelli, Ovwodoremor Avenue in Iwreovie–Ogor, Ofuegbe Street in Amai, and remedial work on the old Umutu–Eku Road through Abraka. There is also work on the township road in Ogbinbiri and Ogbudugbudu communities, a slipway at Soki Zion in Ogbinbiri Community, Warri North, Kokodiagbene Community Road, and internal roads and drains in Kurutie Town (Phase II) in Warri South West Local Government Area.

Governor Oborevwori also highlighted his administration’s flagship projects, which include; three flyovers and three slipways in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun, saying; “these are currently at various stages of completion and are expected to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2026”. He added that other major road projects across the state are also progressing at different stages.

Delivering what he described as the first-ever State of the State Address in Delta’s history, Governor Oborevwori said the mid-term report reflects the philosophy of the MORE agenda, which is driven by the core values of servant leadership, transparency, accountability, innovation, and excellence.

He recalled that upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, he presented a roadmap for growing the economy, maintaining fiscal responsibility, enhancing a focused and efficient civil service, promoting investment, supporting social enterprises, and ensuring that the poor and vulnerable benefit from government policies and programmes.

He stated that his purpose at the assembly was to report on the progress made and to offer a glimpse of what to expect in the remaining two years of the administration.

Following the address, and for his prudent management of the State resources, the Delta State House of Assembly passed a vote of confidence in the governor.

The vote of confidence came through a resolution following a motion moved by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo and was seconded by the member representing Uvwie State Constituency, Hon Edafe Emakpor.

Similarly, the House also commended him for what it described as visionary and transformational leadership, effective financial stewardship, and a firm commitment to human capital development across the state.

This was sequel to a motion moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, who praised Governor Oborevwori’s achievements in key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

The motion was seconded by Hon. Ferguson Onwo, who represents Isoko South Constituency II, and was subsequently adopted through a unanimous voice vote presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor.

In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Emomotimi Guwor noted that Governor Oborevwori had done excellently through transformational leadership and strategic financial management.

He thanked the governor on behalf of the House for the commendable work being done for the development of the state.

Delta Govt approves N1bn revolving fund for MSMEs

Delta Govt approves N1bn revolving fund for MSMEs

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The Delta State Government has approved a ₦1 billion revolving fund to be managed by the Bank of Industry (BOI) at a single digit interest rate to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.

The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this on Thursday, during a post EXCO press briefing at Government House, Asaba.

Ekedayen said the initiative aimed to boost entrepreneurship, create jobs, and drive economic growth by providing accessible financing to small business owners at a single digit interest rate.

He said the fund was expected to offer low-interest loans, helping businesses scale up operations and improve productivity.

He said: “The good news will excite the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the business community in the state, manufacturing companies, hoteliers, small scale industries among others.

“The Exco, in its wisdom, today approved a managed fund of N1billion with the Bank of Industry and it is another laudable
achievement of the Oborevwori-led administration.

“This is imperative because, apart from infrastructure, businesses operating within the confines of Delta State, no matter how small or big, will be eligible to accessing single digit loan from the Bank of Industry.

“I am sure that the commercial and business community in the state will be very happy about this because, as we all know, prime lending rate is in the region of about 30 per cent and most businesses will struggle to pay such rates.

“But with this, businesses in the state will be guaranteed of a loan facility of single digit from the Bank of Industry which is going to be revolving.

“I must emphasis that it is a loan and not a grant and only serious minded business men with proven track record will be given that money with subsidised interest rates with flexible tenure.

“Most commercial banks give their loans from 90 to 100 days but with this, the business community in the state can get loans from between one and five years, with some measure of moratorium in between.

“It is something I am very excited about because I know what businesses are suffering, especially by way of working capital.

“It is laudable and commendable for which I expect a major excitement from the business community.”

The Economic Planning Commissioner also disclosed that Exco approved the State’s Medium Term Development Plan for 2024-2027, describing it as the working document for the Governor’s MORE Agenda.

He added, “Also today, the Delta State Medium Term Development Plan number 3, (2024-2027) was approved and the importance of the medium-term plan cannot be over-emphasised because everything about projects approvals and implementation are all derivatives from this strategic plan.

“It encapsulates the vision and mission of the Governor as enshrined in his MORE Agenda and this document will drive everything about government spending and I can tell you, for free, that we are running all these without borrowing.”

Oborevwori, at maiden 2025 Delta Exco meeting, vows more bumper projects

Oborevwori, at maiden 2025 Delta Exco meeting, vows more bumper projects

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Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Thursday, said his administration was poised to deliver life- changing projects for the people ahead of his second year anniversary.

Governor Oborevwori disclosed this in his opening remarks at the maiden State Executive Council meeting for 2025 at Exco Chamber, Government House, Asaba.

He said his administration had lined up humongous projects across the three senatorial districts and urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to fastrack the process of awarding the projects in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.

He said: “Today is the first Exco meeting of the state this year and we are happy to make use of this dry season to achieve a lot in our infrastructure drive.

“Today, Deltans will know that my administration is ready to do more for them. There are a lot we hope to achieve with today’s Exco meeting because it promises to be the best Exco meeting since our administration started.

“We are touching all the Senatorial districts and all local government areas have been carried along with the huge amounts we are spending this period.

“Deltans will be very happy and that is what we want. We are doing this in line with our MORE Agenda because we have promised Deltans that we are going to advance the state through the MORE Agenda and that is what we are doing.

“We are doing it so that the people will be happy and I want to advise the Ministries, Departments and Agencies to make sure they fast track the process of award of these contracts.

“We are already in February; we just have few months to the rainy season and I believe that we will have a lot of projects for inauguration during our second year anniversary in office,” he added.

Oborevwori tasks Delta community leaders on mediation, dialogue

Sustainable Peace: Oborevwori tasks Delta community leaders on mediation, dialogue

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged community leaders in the state to always employ mediation and dialogue in resolving disputes for sustainable peace and development of the state.

Governor Oborevwori gave the charge at a meeting with Presidents-General of communities and kingdoms held in Asaba, on Wednesday.

The Governor who told the Presidents-General that he was one of them having served as Chairman of Osubi community during which time the Airport was built, urged them to remain resolute in handling issues.

He also appealed to the Presidents-General to ensure unity, peace, inclusiveness and accountability in their communities saying, “by doing that you are bringing peace to your community because you cannot say you are President General and you don’t listen to your people who elected or appointed you.

“Because that is the only thing that can make you succeed, serving the interest of the people not your personal interest.

“When I was community Chairman, I looked at the issues clearly. I stood by my people, but also I never wanted my people to oppress Shell.

“So I was like a mediator, looking at Shell not to allow them to oppress the community, and also not to allow the community to be overbearing. That was how we were able to complete the Phase 1 and 2 of the Osubi Airport.

“As communities there is no way there won’t be challenges. There are always conflicts, there are always challenges. There are community disputes, there are boundary disputes. But the best way to go about it is mediation and dialogue.

“Because when you fight, at the end of the day, you will still go back to that mediation to resolve issues. Why not start with that mediation? Why not start with that dialogue? Why confrontation?

“I believe that the people we have here are very matured and experienced persons from the communities and the kingdoms.

“As a community leader, as a President General, you are holding that position of trust on behalf of your kingdom and your community.

“So, you must do the right thing to bring peace and unity to your community and your kingdom. So, by resolving it, solve all the problems instead of going into confrontation.”

On security, Governor Oborevwori called on the community leaders to follow due process in resolving disputes and urged them to protect government projects within their neighborhood. He cautioned against working at cross purposes with their traditional rulers.

“Working hand in hand with your traditional rulers will help you succeed. Some Presidents General do not agree with their traditional rulers. Some of them are overbearing, but you have to manage them because their roles will complement what you are doing,” Oborevwori added.

The Governor further said over N2 billion has been provided for road projects in each of the 25 local government areas across the state and assured that the widows programme would be revisited in the first quarter of 2025.

On his part, Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Development, Dr Toyin Agbolayah, noted the importance of Presidents-General in the state, adding that without the Presidents-General there would be no meaningful grassroots development.

“When we have issues with communities we run to the Presidents-General and they help us solve those issues. So we cannot thank them enough,” he said.

Earlier, President-General of the Delta State Forum of Kingdoms, Clans and communities, Prince Igwe Nzekwue thanked Governor Oborevwori for the numerous infrastructural developments across the entire state.

He said the programmes and projects of the Governor were already yielding fruits, adding that the people were happy with developments across the state in such a short time.

He assured that the Presidents-General will continue to support him beyond 2027 general elections just as they stood for him in 2023.

Highpoint of the meeting which was attended by the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, was the endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second term. The endorsement was sequel to a motion moved by Chief Sunday Okiah of Abala clan, in Ndokwa East and seconded by Prince Godwin Okotie of Itsekiri nation and was subsequently adopted through a voice vote.

Experts call for enhanced cybersecurity infrastructure, education in Delta

Experts call for enhanced cybersecurity infrastructure, education in Delta

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By Christopher Odamah

With the growing application of information and communication technology in governance, experts have called for a comprehensive and strong cybersecurity policy and legislation to protect critical infrastructure and personal data. Such policy should align with state cybersecurity policies with national and international standards.

The envisaged policy should address critical issues such as safeguarding critical infrastructure, including power grids, water systems, and transportation networks as vital assets.

This was part of the communique adopted at a one-day Delta State Cyber Security Summit last week in Asaba. Organised by the office of the Delta State Webmaster in partnership with Upgraded Era Solutions Limited and the National Cyber Security Center under the auspices of the Inspector General of Police, it is the first ever Cyber Security Summit in Delta State.

The summit also called for the adoption of strategies to explore the latest cyber threats and vulnerabilities, such as ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and data breaches, and how to mitigate the risks.

According to exerts at the summit, Delta State should as a matter of priority establish a Cybersecurity Centre and invest in training programmes to equip officers with the requisite skills and tools to handle evolving cyber threats effectively.

It also recommended that the Delta State Government should implement robust cybersecurity policies and frameworks to protect critical infrastructure and digital assets.

It also recommended youth engagement and the establishment of a Delta State Cybersecurity Task Force to ensure sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.

The summit addressed the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals and the importance of investing in cybersecurity education and training programs to develop a robust cybersecurity workforce.

The Delta State Cybersecurity Summit unites government, law enforcement, and private organizations in addressing pressing cybersecurity challenges; to provide a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share experiences and develop actionable strategies towards enhancing the state’s cybersecurity posture and also to strengthen the cybersecurity defenses and protect its digital assets.

Notable Security Agencies present at the event were NSCDC, Correctional Services, NDLEA, Nigerian Police, State Security Service (SSS) as well as Operation Delta Hawk.

Also in attendance attendance were top government officials,including officials from the office of the Accountant General of the State, Ministries of Economic Planning, Commissioner of Science and Technology, Information as well as Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Director General of Security, State of Orientation Bureau, Executive Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Executive Assistant Media, Executive Assistant Security and many other media aides to the Governor.

Members of Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) and civil society organizations were also represented.

Delta EXCO Approves N936 billion proposed budget for 2025

Delta EXCO Approves N936 billion proposed budget for 2025

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Delta State Executive Council, (EXCO), Monday, approved a proposed budget of N936 billion for the 2025 fiscal year.

Briefing newsmen after the Exco meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, said the proposed budget comprised N587.4 billion, representing 62.75 percent for Capital Expenditure, while N348.7 billion, representing 37.25 percent, is for recurrent expenditure.

Ekadeyan, who was flanked by Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, and his counterparts in Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr Charles Aniagwu and Riverine Infrastructure, Hon. Ebikeme Clark, said the 2025 proposed budget was premised on an exchange rate of N1,300 per dollar.

He said: “The budget size is N936,078,818,719 billion, broken down into capital and recurrent components of N587,361,060,084 billion capital, representing 62.75 per cent, while the recurrent component is N348,717,758,635 billion, representing 37.25 per cent.

“This budget reflects our commitment to key sectors with a balanced approach between recurrent and capital expenditures.

“This 2025 proposal is 29.12% larger than the current year’s budget, demonstrating our dedication to advancing the state’s development.

“Our focus areas remain clear: agriculture; support for micro, small, and medium enterprises; youth empowerment; tourism; entertainment; social safety nets through poverty alleviation; physical infrastructure; healthcare; and education.

“While this provides an overview of the proposed budget, it is still subject to review and will be officially transmitted to the State House of Assembly for further deliberation.”

Ekedayen who remarked that the Oborevwori’s administration is anchored on transparency and accountability, added that the 2025 budget will be 100% organically funded without any borrowing.

“A significant portion of the funding will come from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) allocations, with our internally generated revenue serving as the secondary source.

“To give a clearer perspective, we anticipate that our Internally Generated Revenue will reach at least N140 billion.

“For the 2025 project proposals, this combination of Federal allocation and internally generated revenue will be the primary sources of funding.”

Also speaking, Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, said “Exco approved a range of impactful projects that aim to benefit communities across the State.

“With the two-year anniversary on the horizon, the Council emphasized the importance of future-oriented planning.

“Accordingly, all heads of Ministries, Commissioners, and Permanent Secretaries have been directed to ensure rigorous oversight of their respective projects, with a strict mandate for high standards. There is absolutely no tolerance for substandard or incomplete work.

“The Council also confirmed key appointments, including the appointment of HRM, Dr. Greg N. Oputa, as the Obi of Aboh in Ndokwa East, and Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, as the Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Oshimili South Local government area.”

He added that several infrastructure projects were also approved, covering critical areas including Rehabilitation of Ugwhrughelli/Ehidi road and construction of chief Lyn Ivie Akporiche street, Ughelli North LGA and Amechi Aguisi street in Asaba.

“We also approved the construction of oil road/ old Okpe road in Jeddo Okpe Local Government. Exco also approved the construction of Ejeba road extention/Jelink road and the extention/Olomoro road in Isoko South Local Government.”

Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed that Exco directed that contractors whose projects had lasted for more than one year without mobilising to site, would be determined.

He said Exco approved several new roads including the reconstruction of Uzere Asaba-Ase Bridge and adjoining Road in Ndokwa East and Isoko South Local Government Areas of the state.

“Exco also approved six internal roads in Isoko South as well, as Alisimie-Owa-Nta road in Ika North East, while internal roads and drainage were also approved at NYSC Orientation Camp at Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area.

“We also approved the construction of access road to Airforce base at Osubi Airport, Opete Road by Plantation City to Opete Waterside in Udu Local Government Area among others, Aniagwu said”.

He said the approvals were in line with Governor Oborevwori’s desire to open up the communities for businesses.

On his part, Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure, Hon. Ebikeme Clark said Exco ratified Governor Oborevwori’s approval for the construction of Model Secondary School in Oporoza and Construction of access road to Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko both in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state.

Clark said: “The Nigerian Maritime University is a Federal institution but the Governor deemed it fit to construct the road connecting the temporary site to the permanent site of the university.

“The people of riverine areas are happy with the Governor and they believe that with time he would do more for them.”

D-cares

D-CARES: Over 97,000 Deltans benefit from 4th phase disbursement

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…We won’t allow Deltans to suffer – Oborevwori

Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, said his administration was determined to ensure that residents of the state do not unduly suffer from the economic hardship bedeviling the country.

Governor Oborevwori, disclosed this at the flag-off of 4th disbursement of the Delta State Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, D-CARES, held at the Events Centre, Asaba, at which 97,365 persons benefitted. The tally of beneficiaries on Tuesday brought the grand sum of beneficiaries of D- CARES to over 208, 000.

Oborevwori said the gesture in D- CARES was in furtherance of his administration’s desire to meet the component of inclusiveness of “Opportunities for All” in the MORE Agenda.

The Governor remarked that the 4th tranche disbursement marked another significant milestone in the administration’s commitment to the economic empowerment and welfare of the people.

He said: “As an administration, we seek to create avenues for every Deltan, regardless of their background or political affiliation, to access opportunities that will expand their enterprises, enable them to create wealth, improve their living conditions, and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of our state.

“We want to make sure that our people don’t suffer; so, as governor for all Deltans, we will continue to do more for all Deltans without any sentiments.

“Today, we flag-off disbursements for the 4th Phase of the Delta Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (DELTA-CARES) Programme.

“This is not just a continuation of this initiative, but also a testament to our administration’s determination to build a state where every citizen has a sense of belonging.

“It is gratifying to note that the Delta CARES Programme has touched lives, provided critical support to households and small businesses. Their stories of resilience and renewal continue to inspire the work we do.

“This current phase of implementation represents more than just another stage in the DELTA CARES Programme. This initiative reflects our strong conviction that prosperity should be shared, and that every citizen deserves a fair chance at achieving their potential.

“As we roll out this 4th phase, we are proud to announce that over 97,000 beneficiaries will be empowered. We must, however, note that this figure is more than a number; it represents individuals, families, and communities.

“From grants to small businesses, to providing support for poor and vulnerable households, we are delivering real change, and it is our hope that this intervention will increase and create ripples of development across Delta State as we continue to do MORE for our people.

“Let me extend my heart-felt congratulations to the beneficiaries of this phase. I urge you to make the most of the support you receive today.

“Use it to grow, to invest, and to uplift those around you. You are part of the collective effort to move Delta State forward, and, together, we will achieve greatness.”

The Governor also said the Ministry of Youths Development as well as Science and Technology would also roll out empowerment programmes before the year ends.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Chairman State CARES Steering Committee (SCSC), Mr Sonny Ekedayen, said DELTA-CARES was a World Bank project in partnership with the Nigeria: Community Action (for) Resilience and Economic Stimulus Programme NG-CARES.

Ekedayen, while commending Governor Oborevwori for the massive increase in number of beneficiaries, said 97,365 Deltans, across six delivery platforms comprising State Cash Transfer Unit, 9,845; Labour Intensive Public Workfare Unit 10,000; Livelihood Support Unit 7,000; Community Driven Development Social Implementation Unit (CDDSIU) 60,000 (60 micro-projects) benefited under result area 1.

He added that 6,020 benefited through the State FADAMA Coordination project under result area 2, while 4,500 benefited through Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises Development under result area 3, thus bringing the total beneficiaries under 4th tranche to 97,365, while overall total beneficiaries now stood at 208,209.

In her goodwill message, the Member Representing Oshimili South State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, who commended Governor Oborevwori for increasing the beneficiaries from 36,353 to 208,209 in one year, said the programme was a life line for the economically- disadvantaged population and charged beneficiaries to put the start-up packs to maximum use.

Anyafulu, who is Chairman, House Committee on Housing, Women Affairs, Girl- Child Entrepreneurial and Humanitarian Support Services, also lauded Governor Oborevwori for always giving priority attention to programmes aimed at poverty alleviation and wealth creation. She called on Deltans to throw their weight behind the administration’s MORE agenda.

medium term devt plan

Delta commences work on 2024-2027 Medium-Term Devt Plan

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Delta State Government, Thursday, commenced preparatory work for the formulation of a new Medium-Term Development Plan, covering 2024-2027, for the state.

The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sunny Ekadeyan, disclosed this in his welcome remarks at an enlightenment and orientation workshop for Focal Persons at Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) held at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.

Ekadeyen said the state achieved 80 per cent of its Medium-Term Development Plan for 2020-2023 and commended professionals from different cadres of the State Civil Service for their contributions to the effective realisation of the development plan.

Represented by the Director of Budget, Mr Thompson Olije, the Commissioner expressed gratitude for answering the clarion call, adding that the crucial task ahead would be of immense benefit not only to Delta State but also the entire nation.

“It is indeed an honour and a privilege to address this gathering of eloquent professionals from different cadres of the Civil Service who are dedicated to providing a plan for driving the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

“I can also recollect that the last edition was for 2020-2023 and, going through it, I discovered that at least 80% of the plan was achieved and this goes to show the dynamism of the Civil Servants as go- getters.

“As people in governance, we cannot over-emphasize the importance of this medium term development plan. It is the framework needed to drive the M.O.R.E. Agenda of the present government

“This is critical, given our ever-increasing needs in terms of health, education, potable water, roads and other socio- economic amenities, for sustainable development.

“I urge all of you to put in your best so that the Governor Oborevwori- led administration can effortlessly implement its M.O.R.E. agenda even as I have complete faith in your professional expertise and experience in executing this task successfully.” Ekadeyan stated.

Workshop Consultant, Prof. Eric Eboh, said the purpose of the workshop was to enlighten and give orientation to Focal Persons from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for the generation, collation, organising, drafting and submission of writeup inputs into Delta State Medium Term Plan 2024-2027.

He said proper crafting of the Medium-Term Development Plan 2024-2027 was critical to the achievement of the MORE agenda and urged all to work towards achieving the aim of the meeting.

Prof. Eboh, pioneer Chief Jobs and Wealth Creation Officer in the state, said the development plan of any state or country was one of the most important documents and congratulated all the focal persons on being nominated to represent their MDAs.

Using China as a case study, Eboh said, the Asian country had had successful five-year development plan since 1953, adding that going by the growth rate projection, China would overtake United States of America as the largest economy in the world in 10 years time.

“In Nigeria, the current Medium-Term Development 2021-2025 is being realigned to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“In Delta State, the oil sector accounts for 48 per cent of the states’ Gtoss Domedtic Product (GDP) while the non- oil sector accounts for 52 per cent.”

Eboh argued that the oil sector was just a revenue earner for the state and does not employ many people. He called for an improvement of the non-oil sector which employs more Deltans.

Welcoming participants earlier, the Director, Planning, Ministry of Economic Planning and Head of Drafting Task Team, Mrs Azuka Monyei, said the Medium-Term Development Plan was a very important document every country, state and local government should have, adding that the plan shows the road map on how the nation and state could plan for the welfare of its citizens especially in the current perilous times.