By Shulamite Owhoekevbo 

The Delta State Government has stepped up its campaign for a more professional look in its workforce, briefing top officials on a newly revised dress code while highlighting ongoing measures to improve staff welfare.

At a virtual sensitisation session with Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Inter-Ministerial Departments and senior officers of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Head of Service Dr. Mininim Oseji said the updated directive—contained in a September 10, 2025 circular—replaces the 2009 guidelines and sets clear standards for office attire.

“This meeting ensures that every civil servant understands and implements the revised code,” Oseji explained, noting that a five-member committee reviewed the old policy to meet present-day workplace expectations.

She praised Information Commissioner Charles Aniagwu for reinforcing the government’s stance during a recent press briefing and urged Permanent Secretaries to educate their staff accordingly. Employees with genuine concerns, she added, are encouraged to submit constructive feedback to the Office of the Head of Service.

Supporting remarks came from Barrister Omamuzo Erebe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, and Dr. Paul Okubor, Permanent Secretary of the Hospitals Management Board, who both said the policy simply reflects the responsibility of public officers to project the state’s image with dignity.

Dr. Oseji also used the platform to spotlight Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s civil-service friendly initiatives: prompt and regular salary payments, implementation of the ₦77,500 minimum wage since October 2024, a rotational work schedule for staff on Grade Levels 1–14, payment of ₦5 billion in promotion arrears, and ongoing town-hall engagements with workers.

Other achievements of her office include Breakfast Dialogue Sessions with MDAs, interactive training assessments with cash prizes, revival of Civil Service Week, provision of official staff buses, agricultural promotion among public officers, and creation of a whistle-blower line to guard against financial misconduct.

Dr. Oseji concluded that the Revised Dress Code is “not just about appearance, but about professionalism and the pride of representing Delta State.”

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Area Commander of Ughelli, ACP Aliyu Shaba, has issued a stern warning to cultists and individuals in possession of illegal firearms, urging them to surrender their weapons within three months or risk being treated as criminals.

ACP Shaba gave the warning during his working visit to the Agbarho Divisional Police Headquarters in Ughelli North Local Government Area on Thursday, a visit that also coincided with the inauguration of the newly elected Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Agbarho Division Executive Council.

Addressing stakeholders including sister agencies, traditional council representatives, community leaders, youth leaders, women and PCRC members, Shaba noted that; “No Criminal Can Escape My Tracking”, the Area Commander cautioned against shielding cultists or illegal gun owners.

He recalled his track record of recovering 11 AK-47 rifles and other assorted weapons during his tenure as DPO of Ekpan Police Station, vowing to replicate similar results in Ughelli.

“Tell your children I am giving them three months to submit their weapons. If they refuse, I will go after them like common criminals. When it comes to tracking criminals, no one beats my record. Even if you drop your phone or remove your SIM cards, I will still track you down,” he declared.

He further cited high-profile cases he handled in Akwukwu-Igbo, Otokutu, Udu, and Bayelsa State, stressing that cultism and gun-running would no longer be tolerated in Ughelli.

ACP Shaba also cautioned against lobbying for the release of arrested suspects, warning that such pleas could strain his respect for community leaders.

While describing the visit as part of his routine on-the-spot assessment of police divisions, ACP Shaba applauded the cordial relationship between the Agbarho Division and its host community. He appealed for stronger collaboration with the President General (PG) of Agbarho, traditional institutions, and vigilante groups, noting that collective action was key to reducing crime to the barest minimum.

The Commander highlighted the dangers of drug abuse among youths, revealing that the police recently recovered hard drugs worth ₦80 million from a woman in Ughelli. He also disclosed that drug dealers now conceal narcotics in unconventional items such as first aid boxes.

“Residents must expose those engaged in the illicit drug trade. The police cannot win this fight alone. Community information will remain confidential, but cooperation is vital,” he urged.

ACP Shaba charged DPOs to ensure professionalism among officers, stressing the need for respect of human rights, fair handling of cases, and strengthening of community relations.

Earlier, the Divisional Police Officer of Agbarho, CSP Pius Eredei, described the visit as a strategic familiarization tour that provided an opportunity for on-the-spot assessment. He acknowledged violent crimes associated with the area while highlighting challenges faced by the Division, including manpower shortage, inadequate accommodation, vehicles, and operational tools.

He appealed for collective collaboration from community leaders, elders, sister security agencies, and volunteers to enhance security in the Division.

The visit also featured the formal inauguration of the newly elected 18-man PCRC Agbarho Division Executive Council. Among those inaugurated were:

Pastor Kesiena Nomuoja – Chairman

Sir Mathias Akatugba – Vice Chairman

Barr. (Mrs.) Flora Fiyebo – Secretary

Mr. Lucky Ubuinoh – Deputy Secretary

Mr. Benson Ejeghotan – Treasurer

The PCRC also issued certificates to newly inducted patrons, with Chief J.O. Ojoba, a member of the Agbarho Traditional Council, announced as the first patron.

The event was well attended by community stakeholders, traditional leaders, and security operatives, reinforcing a collective resolve to tackle insecurity in Ughelli and its environs.

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has commended the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and its alumni for their enduring legacy of academic excellence, urging them to remain ambassadors of distinction and continue projecting the institution as Nigeria’s pride.

The monarch gave the commendation when he received members of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Asaba Chapter, who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in the Delta State capital.

In his address, the revered royal father lauded the institution’s impact on the Nigerian educational landscape, stressing that UNILAG graduates embody a “unique emblem of distinction.”

“We have imbibed and internalized values in the course of our journey. Let the world see the worth of our training. Let the world proclaim that yes, going to UNILAG is indeed going to the best university that Nigeria can offer,” the Asagba declared.

The monarch, himself a proud alumnus of the institution, expressed confidence that the legacy of UNILAG would continue to inspire emerging institutions, including the fast-growing Denis Osadebe University in Asaba.

He also showered royal blessings on the delegation, praying for their continued growth and success as the city prepares for the upcoming Pan-Youth Grand (PYG) Festival.

“Asaba is a land of peace and prosperity. This land blesses people. That is why the SSG can say Asaba is Makkah. The land blesses, and it is that blessing I am bestowing upon all of you,” he said.

The monarch further described Asaba as the fastest-growing state capital south of the Sahara, adding that the city continues to attract progress and prosperity for its people.

Speaking earlier, the President of the Asaba Chapter, Mr. Patrick Olisa Dibie, apologized for the delay in the courtesy visit and thanked the Asagba for his sterling contributions to law, academia, and faith. He prayed the royal father would extend the same goodwill to the Asaba Chapter of UNILAG Alumni.

The delegation, led by Dibie, included Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, Barr. M.O. Nwamu, Elder C. Ngemegwai, Obi Henry Kikachukwu, Prof. Benjamin Oghojafor, Dr. Derick Eke, Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, Barr. Princess Ajudua, and Barr. Emmanuel Diei. They were guided by the Palace Secretary, High Chief Patrick Ndili.

During the visit, Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas presented gifts to the monarch and delivered an invitation letter from the UNILAG Alumni Association national body, requesting the Asagba’s presence in Lagos on October 12, 2025, to receive a national award.

Responding, the Asagba accepted the invitation with gratitude and pledged his continued support for the association, urging members to channel their collective strength toward the good of society.

The event, which featured cultural protocols of the Asaba Council of Chiefs, ended with royal blessings and a group photograph.

By Shulamite Owhoekevbo

The Delta State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, has congratulated the Permanent Secretary in the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Angalaere Arthur Prest-Umukoro, on her retirement from the state civil service after 34 years of dedicated service.

Mrs. Prest-Umukoro, who paid a courtesy visit to formally announce her disengagement, expressed gratitude to the Head of Service for her unwavering support and encouragement throughout her career. She described her journey in the service as fulfilling and thanked God for the grace to retire in good health.

In her remarks, Dr. Oseji commended the retiring Permanent Secretary for her diligence, administrative competence, and meritorious service in various ministries and directorates. She noted that Mrs. Prest-Umukoro had consistently demonstrated professionalism and leadership since her appointment as a Director, her elevation to Permanent Secretary in 2018, and her subsequent posting to the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, where she served until her retirement.

“I am delighted that you have recovered sufficiently from your health challenges to be here today,” Dr. Oseji said, adding that her contributions to the civil service remain exemplary.

Recalling her career journey, Mrs. Prest-Umukoro stated that, she began her journey in the Civil Service with the defunct Bendel State Civil Service Commission (CSC) on October 22, 1990, and upon the creation of Delta State, she moved to Asaba where her remarkable career continued. In 1992, she was converted to Finance Officer II and posted to the Directorate of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. There, she diligently served under Permanent Secretaries Owafili Lawson and later Sir Okey Ofili, laying the foundation for the sterling service that would define her career.

From 2000, she brought her expertise to the Ministry of Works, and following the restructuring that created the Ministries of Works, Transport, Energy, and Housing, she was redeployed to the Ministry of Transport where she served faithfully until 2006. Her journey later took her back to the Directorate of Local Government Affairs as Director of Administration and Finance, where her leadership and dedication left a lasting impact.

Over the years, she became a pillar in several ministries, including Information, Health, Asaba Airport, and Establishment and Pensions. Between 2011 and 2016, she was often called upon to serve as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Establishment and Pensions Department whenever the need arose. With humility and excellence, she worked under Sir Okey Ofili, Sir O. P. Origho, and later Reginald Bayoko as Heads of Service, proving herself a dependable and trusted hand in the service.

Her career reached its peak when she was posted to the Ministry of Health as Director of Administration, and on May 5, 2018, she was deservedly appointed as Permanent Secretary. She was subsequently deployed to the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, where she served with distinction until her retirement.

Her story is one of resilience, loyalty, and selfless service. Through every posting, she left behind footprints of dedication, touching lives and uplifting the institutions she was entrusted with. Hers was not just a career—it was a life of service, crowned with honor.

Offering words of advice, Mrs. Prest-Umukoro urged civil servants to always separate personal interests from official responsibilities, embrace challenges as opportunities, and prioritize mentorship as a way of grooming future leaders.

The event was graced by members of the College of Permanent Secretaries, including Mr. Maxwell Awuse (Office of the Head of Service), Prince Gregory Ejowhomu (Bureau for Special Duties), Mrs. Felicia Reno-Orugbo (Ministry of Energy), Mr. Michael Diden (Ministry of Trade and Investment), and Mr. Anthony Usenu, Director of Public Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service.

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD

Hope is rising for women and youth in Delta State as Senator Ned Nwoko throws his weight behind a bold agricultural initiative set to expand rice farming, boost food production, and open new opportunities across communities.

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has pledged his full support for the Positive Impact for Women and Youth Development Initiative (PIWYODI), describing the group’s agricultural empowerment vision as a model for job creation and food security.

The lawmaker made the commitment when executives of the organization, led by its National President, Mrs. Martha Onadeko, paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Idumuje-Ugboko.

Commending the group’s initiative, Senator Nwoko lauded their focus on farming as a sustainable means of creating opportunities for women and young people. He noted that PIWYODI’s approach of seeking partnership and support rather than soliciting handouts was both strategic and commendable.

“This is the kind of effort we must encourage,” Nwoko said. “Your work not only promotes self-reliance but also strengthens our agricultural base. I will ensure this initiative reaches every local government and community in Delta North.”

Mrs. Onadeko, in her remarks, applauded Senator Nwoko’s developmental strides and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to agricultural expansion, particularly rice farming. She revealed that PIWYODI currently operates farms in Ogume, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, and Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, with plans to extend operations across all LGAs.

“Our vision is to drive large-scale rice production that will stimulate economic growth and empower women and youth across the state and Nigeria,” she said.

Also present at the visit were the group’s Delta State Coordinator, Hon. Mary Samuel, and other national executives.

There was drama at the Magistrate Court in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday as self-acclaimed activist, Victor Ojei, popularly known as “Wong Box”, was arraigned on a three-count charge and ordered to be remanded in prison custody pending the perfection of his bail conditions.

Ojei, known for his fiery activism on social and political issues in Delta State, is facing charges of threat to life, assault occasioning harm, and threatening violence—offences said to contravene Sections 355, 86, and 249 of the Criminal Code.

The charges stem from a recent incident captured in a video shared by the Delta State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on his Facebook page. In the footage, Ojei was seen brandishing a cutlass and allegedly threatening officials of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), who had visited his residence to disconnect power supply over unpaid electricity bills.

During court proceedings, the prosecution argued that the activist’s conduct endangered individuals and threatened public peace. The presiding magistrate, after hearing submissions, granted bail but ordered that Ojei be remanded until the bail conditions are satisfied.

Confirming the development, SP Bright Edafe said in a telephone interview that the police would ensure justice is served.

“The matter is before the court, and he has been remanded pending when he meets his bail conditions. The position of the law is clear: nobody is above the law,” Edafe stated.

The arraignment has generated mixed reactions across Delta communities. While some residents insist that Ojei’s confrontational style had long courted controversy, others suggest that the charges may carry political undertones, given his frequent criticism of local authorities.

Meanwhile, the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNGR), with which Ojei is affiliated, issued a statement on his official Facebook page on Monday evening, thanking supporters for standing by him during the arraignment.

The statement, signed by YNGR Media Handler Valentine Ozegbe, read in part:

“On behalf of the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNGR), we extend our sincere gratitude to all who came out today to show their support for Mr. Wong Box. While bail has not yet been perfected, we wish to reassure you that the legal team, alongside other stakeholders, is diligently working on the matter.”

The organization further cautioned its members and supporters against making derogatory or inflammatory comments on the case, warning that such remarks could misrepresent the group’s official position.

“We urge everyone to remain calm, keep emotions in check, and continue to support us through lawful and peaceful means as we work tirelessly towards a positive resolution,” the statement added.

Court watchers note that the case has been adjourned, and the coming days will determine whether Ojei secures his freedom on bail or continues to face detention while trial proceeds.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a nationwide enlightenment campaign to deepen citizens’ understanding of government programmes, promote national values, and boost security consciousness across the country. The Director-General of NOA, Mallam Issa Lanre-Onilu, represented by Mrs. Nasamu Rebecca, Director of General Services at the Agency’s headquarters, unveiled the initiative during a press conference in Abuja.

The sensitisation drive will run across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and 774 local government areas, focusing on five thematic areas: government policies and programmes, values re-orientation for students, flood mitigation, national security awareness, and the Nigerian identity and symbols.

Issa-Onilu highlighted key programmes including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has disbursed over ₦59 billion to more than 600,000 students, social safety nets such as Conditional Cash Transfers and Trader/ Farmer Moni, the renovation of 700 rural schools, and the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF). On security, he noted the deployment of drones, armoured vehicles, surveillance technologies, and over 15,000 new security personnel nationwide, with NOA aiming to reach at least 3 million Nigerians per state through town halls, rallies, and community engagements.

Delta State Director of NOA, Mrs. Tracy Omamode Ikolomi, assured that the Agency will continue to bridge the gap between government and citizens by relaying community feedback directly to Abuja. Civil society leaders present commended NOA’s efforts, urging Nigerians to embrace accountability and collective responsibility in nation-building.