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Oborevwori To Deltans: “We Need Your Prayers”; Celebrates 63rd Birthday In A Thanksgiving Service

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Thursday marked his 63rd birth anniversary with a thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, where he expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and guiding him in leadership.

Speaking during the service, Governor Oborevwori said the occasion was not about elaborate celebrations but about returning thanks to God for His faithfulness and mercy.

Saying he is a committed Christian, the governor said giving thanks to God was more important than any social celebration associated with his birthday.

“I have come here to thank God. The most important thing for me today is to give God thanks because He has kept me and sustained me. Every other celebration is secondary,” he said.

The governor appreciated Deltans and his supporters for the goodwill and support they have continued to show him, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to serving the state diligently.

“I thank all those who have shown me love and support over the years. By the grace of God, I will continue to do my best to serve the people of Delta State and justify the confidence reposed in me,” Oborevwori stated.

He urged citizens to continue praying for those in positions of authority, stressing that leadership requires divine guidance and wisdom.

Oborevwori said; “Pray for me, pray for the state, and pray for all those in authority. We need your prayers as we continue to serve. I believe that by God’s grace, everyone will have an opportunity to fulfil their purpose in life”.

Governor Oborevwori also commended the chaplaincy team for their dedication for maintaining regular worship activities at the Government House Chapel.

Earlier in his sermon titled, “What Is Your Prayer to God?”, the Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Venerable Charles Osemenam, congratulated the governor on attaining the age of 63 and prayed for God’s continued guidance upon his life and administration.

Drawing his message from 1 Kings 3:7-12, Osemenam highlighted the importance of seeking wisdom from God, using the example of King Solomon whose request for wisdom pleased God and enabled him to govern effectively.

The cleric noted that Governor Oborevwori had demonstrated a commitment to peace, unity and inclusive leadership across Delta State, adding that such virtues reflected God’s grace at work in his life.

According to him, governing a diverse state such as Delta requires divine wisdom, patience and a heart committed to peace.

He commended the governor’s efforts in fostering harmony among the various ethnic nationalities and communities in the state and prayed that God would grant him greater wisdom and strength to continue leading the state on the path of peace, progress and development.

The thanksgiving service was attended by family members, government officials, political associates, clergy and worshippers who joined the governor in celebrating the milestone and offering prayers for continued success in his administration.

Highlight of the service was the cutting of the birthday cake by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, supported by his wife, Clerics and top government functionaries.

Delta Online Publishers Forum Felicitates Delta State Governor At 63

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) extends its congratulations to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 63rd birthday.

In a statement issued and signed by Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli, FCIMS, MNIPR and Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, FCIMS, MNIPR, Forum’s Chairman and Secretary respectively, the Forum noted that the Governor’s birthday comes at a significant period in the life of the state, coinciding with the completion of three years of his administration, adding that this milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on the policies, programmes, and initiatives undertaken by the government during the period.

DOPF acknowledges the efforts of the Oborevwori administration in advancing its development agenda through infrastructure projects, governance reforms, and investments in critical sectors of the state’s economy. The Forum also recognizes the administration’s emphasis on continuity in governance and its pursuit of policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens across Delta State.

As stakeholders in the information and media space, members of DOPF have closely observed developments in the state and appreciate the importance of accountable leadership, prudent management of public resources, and sustained engagement with citizens in the pursuit of development objectives.

The statement reads in part:-

“On this occasion, the Forum commends Governor Oborevwori for his service to Delta State and encourages the administration to sustain efforts geared towards promoting inclusive growth, strengthening public institutions, and addressing the evolving needs of the people.”

DOPF wishes the Governor good health, wisdom, and continued strength as he carries out the responsibilities of his office.

Emetulu Meets Ndokwa Media Professionals, Urges Ndokwa Youths To Own Public Assets And Protect Them

Member representing Ndokwa West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Hon. Charles Emetulu, has called on youths in Ndokwa Nation to desist from vandalizing government facilities, warning that such acts undermine development and deprive communities of essential infrastructure.

Emetulu, who made the appeal on Thursday while hosting members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, stressed the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding public projects and installations across the area.

Expressing concern over the destruction of government facilities in some communities, the lawmaker said investments made by government were intended to improve the welfare of the people and should be protected for the benefit of all.

“Government does not provide infrastructure for itself. These facilities are put in place for the benefit of our people, and it is therefore wrong for anyone to vandalise or destroy them,” he said.

He urged traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to take deliberate steps to ensure that public assets within their domains were adequately protected.

According to him, community leaders must rise to the responsibility of safeguarding government properties and facilities located in their areas, noting that protecting public assets would encourage more development and attract greater government presence to communities.

Emetulu maintained that preserving public infrastructure should not be left to security agencies alone, emphasising that residents and leaders must work together in the interest of future generations.

“The responsibility of securing government facilities is a collective one. Our youths should channel their energies into productive ventures instead of engaging in acts that are detrimental to the growth and development of our communities,” he stated.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to the growth and development of Ndokwa West Constituency and the entire Ndokwa Nation, assuring that efforts would continue to be directed towards improving the wellbeing of the people.

He also commended members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum for their contributions to the promotion of responsible journalism and development-oriented discourse in the area.

“I appreciate the role being played by members of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum in projecting issues that affect our people and promoting development in Ndokwa Nation,” Emetulu added.

Earlier, Chairman of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, Hon. Barth Ineh-Ozah, commended Hon. Charles Emetulu for granting members of the forum audience and for his continued support towards the growth of the body.

Ineh-Ozah said the forum remained committed to upholding professionalism and ethical standards in media practice while promoting responsible journalism in the interest of Ndokwa Nation.

He explained that the association was established to foster unity among media practitioners of Ndokwa extraction and provide a platform for constructive engagement on issues affecting the area.

According to him, members of the forum would continue to contribute to the development of Ndokwa Nation through objective reportage, advocacy and initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, progress and social cohesion across communities.

Oborevwori Rallies Security Stakeholders For A Collective Fight Against Insecurity

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday rallied stakeholders across the state to unite against terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality, declaring that security remains a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and citizens.

The governor made the call while delivering his keynote address at the Delta State Security Summit 2026 held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, with the theme, “Security: A Collective Responsibility.”

The summit brought together heads of security agencies, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups, youth and women organizations, and members of the business community to deliberate on strategies for strengthening peace and security across the state.

Governor Oborevwori said the security of lives and property remains fundamental to sustainable development, noting that no society can prosper in an atmosphere of fear and instability.

“Security remains the foundation of every prosperous society. Without peace and stability, economic growth slows, investments decline and communities struggle to thrive. This is why the protection of lives and property remains one of the most important responsibilities of government,” he said.

The governor stressed that while government and security agencies have constitutional responsibilities to maintain law and order, lasting peace can only be achieved through collaboration among all stakeholders.

According to him, “The theme of this summit is both timely and relevant because it reminds us that security is not the responsibility of government alone. Traditional institutions, religious bodies, businesses, civil society groups and every citizen have critical roles to play in building a safe and secure society.”

Oborevwori disclosed that his administration had continued to strengthen the state’s security architecture through strategic partnerships with security agencies and communities, while making substantial investments in security operations and logistics.

He said the state government recently restructured and strengthened Operation Delta Sweep, the state’s joint security outfit, which has recorded significant successes in combating crime across Delta.

The governor further disclosed that, in preparation for the eventual establishment of state police, the State Executive Council approved the construction of divisional police headquarters in all the 25 local government areas of the state.

He also highlighted the establishment of the Delta State Security Trust Fund as a sustainable platform for collaboration between government and the private sector in supporting security operations.

The governor said; “I assure Deltans that government is in the process of procuring additional operational vehicles and security equipment, while efforts are ongoing to train and retrain personnel to improve our security capabilities”.

Calling for greater public cooperation with security agencies, the governor emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering and timely information sharing.

Oborevwori said; “If you don’t share information, security agencies are not magicians. They operate based on intelligence and credible information. Criminals thrive when communities remain silent and stakeholders work in isolation.

“The strongest security systems are built on trust, cooperation, vigilance and timely sharing of information. If you see something, say something.

“Let me make a resounding statement that Delta State condemns every act of terrorism recorded in any part of our country. We will continue to unite against terror until our nation is fully safe and secure for all citizens.

“I call on every resident of Delta State to be security conscious and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. Together, we can enhance peace and security in our communities”.

He expressed optimism that the summit would produce practical recommendations capable of strengthening community participation, improving intelligence gathering and deepening collaboration among stakeholders.

Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, said the summit was convened in response to growing security concerns across the country and the need for proactive engagement with critical stakeholders.

According to him, the gathering was designed not only to identify security challenges but also to develop actionable solutions that would enhance peace and security throughout the state.

In their goodwill messages, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Commander 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Asaba, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, and Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, Commodore Shehu Tasiu, commended Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering support for security agencies and his commitment to maintaining peace in Delta State.

Brigadier General Shonibare particularly praised the governor’s intervention in addressing tensions arising from the Warri Federal Constituency ward delineation exercise, noting that his leadership helped avert a potential crisis.

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated uncommon commitment to security. His intervention and engagement with stakeholders helped prevent unnecessary bloodshed and contributed significantly to the peace we currently enjoy,” he said.

The military commander also noted that incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state had reduced considerably due to improved collaboration among government, communities and security agencies.

Delivering a lecture on the theme of the summit, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, John Oyeniyi, emphasized that modern security challenges require a whole-of-society approach.

He identified kidnapping, cybercrime, cultism, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, drug trafficking and communal conflicts as some of the major security threats confronting Nigeria.

The police commissioner stressed that effective security depends on strong collaboration among government, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious bodies, the private sector and citizens.

The summit ended with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to work together in safeguarding lives and property and sustaining Delta State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and investment-friendly states.

Patients Are Falling Through the Cracks: ACOMIN Raises Alarm Over Healthcare’s Risks in Delta

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Association of Community-Based Organizations for Malaria, Immunization and Nutrition (ACOMIN) has called on governments, development partners, healthcare providers, communities and the media to intensify efforts toward addressing persistent gaps in HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB) and Malaria healthcare services across Delta State and Nigeria.

The call was made during a media briefing on the Global Fund-supported Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) Project being implemented by ACOMIN in Delta State.
Speaking at the event, Delta State Programme Officer of ACOMIN, Mr. Austin Uwede, said that despite progress recorded in the fight against HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria, many communities still face barriers to accessing quality healthcare services.

According to him, findings from the CLM intervention revealed challenges including weak referral systems, treatment interruptions, shortages of healthcare workers, inadequate medical equipment, limited screening opportunities and rising transportation costs.

Sir Austin Uwede, Delta State ACOMIN State Program Officer

He noted that these challenges often result in delayed diagnosis, poor treatment adherence and poor health outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Uwede, however, highlighted the positive impact of the Global Fund-supported CLM intervention, saying it has strengthened accountability, improved referral pathways and encouraged community participation in healthcare delivery.

He added that communities have supported health facilities through the provision of boreholes, hospital beds, medical consumables and other resources, while also contributing volunteers and support staff to improve service delivery.
Calling for urgent action, he urged governments at all levels, development partners, the private sector and other stakeholders to strengthen referral systems, ensure uninterrupted access to medicines and diagnostics, invest in healthcare workforce development and reduce financial barriers to healthcare.

Earlier, Delta State Chairman of ACOMIN, Pastor Greg Sifor, urged Programme Officers across the state’s 25 local government areas to remain committed to their responsibilities and avoid submitting false reports, warning that technology can easily verify field activities.

He also encouraged members to see their work as service to humanity and remain dedicated to improving healthcare delivery in their communities.

Also speaking, the State Programme Officer of the Society for Family Health (SFH), Mrs. Mercy Momoh, appealed to government authorities to strengthen monitoring of healthcare facilities, protect public health infrastructure and ensure adequate supply of essential medicines.

She also urged the media to continue amplifying health messages and advocacy efforts aimed at improving healthcare outcomes.

Contributing, Programme Officer for Isoko South Local Government Area, Mr. Lawrence Etadafevwerha, disclosed that a healthcare facility in Olomoro had to abandon a contaminated borehole until a philanthropist provided a replacement.

Similarly, Clara Isoken Ogieva of the Community Empowerment and Development Initiative (CEDI), Ethiope East, appealed to the government to upgrade healthcare facilities in the area, citing inadequate infrastructure, manpower shortages and lack of essential medical equipment.

The stakeholders agreed that stronger partnerships, community engagement and increased investment in healthcare are critical to eliminating HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria as public health threats in Nigeria.

Oborevwori Makes Good His Promises, Moves To Restore Electricity In Ndokwa, Environs

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has taken fresh steps to restore and improve electricity supply in parts of Isoko and Ndokwa land with the commencement of procurement processes for the rehabilitation and expansion of critical power infrastructure across the affected communities.

The move followed the issuance of an Invitation to Tender by the Delta State Ministry of Energy for the execution of key electricity projects aimed at addressing years of power challenges caused by inadequate infrastructure and vandalism.

According to the tender notice signed by the Secretary of the Ministerial Tenders Board, T.O. Bayoko, one of the major projects involves the construction of a 33KV Overhead High Voltage Line from Emevor through Otor-Owhe to Isoko Roundabout, as well as the rehabilitation of vandalized sections of the existing 33KV line between Iyede and Ellu in Isoko North Local Government Area.

The project is expected to significantly improve power supply to communities across the Isoko axis and boost economic activities in the area.

In another intervention, the state government plans to rehabilitate and reconstruct the vandalized 33KV power line stretching from Abbi through Emu-Obodeti to the Kwale 7.5MVA Injection Station in Ndokwa West Local Government Area.

The project is designed to restore stable electricity to several communities that have suffered prolonged disruptions due to the destruction of critical power facilities.

The Ministry also announced plans to upgrade the existing 500KVA Independent Power Project (IPP) substation transformer at the Permanent Secretary’s Quarters in Asaba to a 1000KVA transformer, further strengthening electricity infrastructure within the state capital.

The tender advertisement, issued through the Ministry’s Planning, Research and Statistics Department, invited suitably qualified companies to bid for the projects, underscoring the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to improving power infrastructure as part of its M.O.R.E. Agenda.

Industry observers say the projects, when completed, will not only restore electricity to affected communities but also stimulate economic growth, support small businesses, improve security and enhance the quality of life of residents.

Since assuming office, Governor Oborevwori has continued to prioritize infrastructure development across the state, with renewed attention being given to the power sector following the enactment of the Delta State Electricity Power Sector Law, which seeks to expand access to reliable and sustainable electricity for residents and businesses.

The latest electricity projects are expected to bring relief to thousands of households and businesses in Isoko and Ndokwa communities that have long yearned for improved power supply, while reinforcing the administration’s resolve to accelerate development across all parts of the state.

Oborevwori Mourns As Legendary Urhobo Musician And Culture Custodian, Prof. Johnson Adjan Goes Home

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of legendary Urhobo musician and cultural icon, Prof. Johnson Oyibode Adjan, popularly known as “The Ogburine” (Song-Warrior).

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described the late musician as one of the greatest ambassadors of Urhobo culture whose contributions to music, philosophy, and indigenous knowledge will remain unforgettable.

Governor Oborevwori said Prof. Adjan’s death was a huge loss not only to the Urhobo nation but also to Delta State and Nigeria at large, noting that the revered musician dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Urhobo heritage through his timeless songs.

The governor noted that Prof. Adjan’s influence extended beyond entertainment, earning him academic recognition.

“Prof. Johnson Adjan was more than a musician; he was a custodian of our culture, history, philosophy, and values. Through his music, he educated generations, preserved our heritage, and strengthened the identity of the Urhobo people,” Governor Oborevwori said.

Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the Adjan family, the Urhobo nation, and the entire entertainment community, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

Prof. Johnson Adjan’s signature call, “Isi wadooo… iyaaa…,” will continue to resonate in the hearts of his admirers as a symbol of a life devoted to culture, wisdom, and music.

Insecurity: Delta To Convene Security Summit As Oborevwori Calls On Collective Responsibility Of Stakeholders

The Delta State Government has announced plans to convene a security summit aimed at strengthening collaboration among stakeholders in addressing security challenges across the state.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Delta State Security Summit 2026 will hold on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The summit, themed “Security: A Collective Responsibility,” will be hosted by Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori. The event is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on strategies for enhancing peace, safety and security.

The SSG stated that participants expected at the summit include; security chiefs, representatives of the Armed Forces, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defense, NSCDC, chairmen of local government councils, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Presidents-General of communities, ethnic youth leaders, community youth leaders, civil society organizations, transport unions and market women associations.

Dr. Emu noted that the summit underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering a safer and more secure Delta State through inclusive engagement and collective action.

He emphasized that security remains a shared responsibility requiring the active participation of government institutions, security agencies, community leaders and citizens.

The state government urged all invited stakeholders to attend the summit and contribute meaningfully to discussions aimed at strengthening security architecture and promoting sustainable peace across the state.

The gathering is also expected to reinforce ongoing efforts by security agencies and community-based groups to tackle emerging threats and ensure the safety of residents.

The summit comes amid renewed calls for greater cooperation among security stakeholders, with participants expected to chart a common course towards a united front against terrorism, criminality and other threats to public safety in Delta State.

14 Million Nigerians Now Covered Under State Health Insurance Schemes — SSHIAs

By Pat Gbemudu

State Social Health Insurance Agencies across Nigeria have enrolled nearly 14 million Nigerians as of April 2026, with Delta State leading the chart with about 3 million enrollees.

Chairman of the SSHIAs Forum and Director-General of Katsina Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, *Mr. Mohammed Safana*, disclosed this at the just-concluded Maiden National Summit of State Social Health Insurance Agencies in Ondo State.

Speaking during the summit which has the theme “Economic Realities and the Universal Health Coverage Dream: Mobilising States for Sustainable Health Insuranc”, Safana said the numbers represent Nigerians now accessing care without catastrophic out-of-pocket expenses.

He described the summit as historic, being the first-time representatives from all 36 states and the FCT gathered to chart strategies for affordable, quality healthcare.

Safana attributed the gains to strong state ownership, community engagement, and accountability. He also commended the Federal Government for increasing the Basic Health Care Provision Fund from 1% to 2% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund, describing it as a landmark intervention for primary healthcare and vulnerable groups.

On the topic “Delta’s Shift to Sustainability”, Director-General of Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, said the commission has moved beyond enrolment targets. The focus, he said, is now on sustainability and system integrity.

To tackle fraud, DSCHC has deployed facial recognition technology alongside independent real-time Service Quality Monitors. Akpoveta said the biometric verification has strengthened accountability and ensured resources reach actual beneficiaries.

Declaring the summit open, Ondo State Governor Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage and announced free health insurance for retirees in Ondo State. He urged states to scale partnerships and share best practices to make quality healthcare accessible to all Nigerians.

Delta Emerges Health Insurance Leader as Akpoveta Wins National Award

By Pat Gbemudu

The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Olorogun *Dr. Isaac Akpoveta*, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence for outstanding contributions to social health insurance implementation in Nigeria.

The award was presented at the closing of the 2026 National Summit of State Social Health Insurance Agencies, SSHIA, in Akure, Ondo State. The summit convened heads of SSHIAs, policymakers, development partners, and healthcare providers to review progress and advance Universal Health Coverage.

Presenting the award, SSHIAs Chairman and DG, Katsina Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, *Mr. Mohammed Safana*, commended Akpoveta’s visionary leadership. He noted that under Akpoveta, Delta State has emerged as a top performer in health insurance coverage, with strong gains in enrolment, service delivery, and protection of vulnerable groups.

The recognition also highlighted Akpoveta’s role in advancing innovative healthcare financing and strengthening partnerships driving social health insurance nationwide. Participants described him as a leading advocate for sustainable healthcare financing and equitable access to care.

Receiving the award, Akpoveta dedicated it to *Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori*, the Delta State Government, healthcare workers, development partners, and the DSCHC team. He said the honour would spur greater efforts to expand coverage and improve access for Deltans.

He reaffirmed DSCHC’s commitment to national UHC goals, stressing that health insurance is key to reducing out-of-pocket costs and shielding families from medical financial hardship.

The summit featured panel sessions, exhibitions, and best-practice exchanges on boosting enrolment, improving service quality, and securing sustainable financing for state schemes.

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