By Wilbet Ijeoma

The National Orientation Agency Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative Society (NOAFMCS) today held her annual general meeting being the 11th edition to celebrate a remarkable financial year, give stewardship account of Excos and elect new Excos.

The event held at NOA hall, Federal Secretariat, Asaba was squarely attended by members of the cooperative, Excos of the mother Union and sister-cooperatives which include NDE, NBS and others.

The President of NOAFMCS, Mrs Patricia Umunna reviewed the past financial year which she adjudged as remarkable, announcing almost 200% increase in Net Suplus from 2024 to 2025 financial year.

Umunna, who also is the NOA Deputy Director Human Resources, attributed this milestone achievement to the financial prudence, transparency, accountability and dedication of the management committee while being resilient in spite of challenges.

Speaking further, Mrs. Umunna identified some challenges facing the cooperative which include decline in membership strength as a result of staff retirement, multiple online borrowing by members, non-remittance from source and difficulty in loan recovery.

Responding to the President’s remarks, Mr Andy Enwema who represented the President of the mother union Oshimili I Cooperative discouraged online borrowing which he described as wrecking, adding that cooperators can approach the Excos for loan consideration.

The President further responded to concerns raised on welfare packages for cooperators at the end of the year, and noted that cooperators have different tastes and therefore resorted to approving monetary equivalence of the welfare packages which is credited to cooperators’ bank accounts.

Comrade Abel Johngold opined that soft loans should not be restricted to Christians only during Xmas period but muslims and traditional adherents during their celebration periods – a concern well noted by the President. Johngold ceased the opportunity to give a vote of thanks to the outgoing Exco, commending them for a stellar performance, while moving a motion for the dissolution of the management committee (Exco).

The business of nomination and election of a new management committee, moderated by Mr. Andy Enwema, returned Mrs Patricia Umunna as President, Mrs Ngozi Onyema as Vice President, Mrs Florence Nwabuzor as Secretary, Mrs Sarah Owere as Treasurer and Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma as Executive Member.

In an acceptance speech,.Mrs Umunna, on behalf of the newly elected Excos, thanked the cooperative for the confidence reposed in her Exco and prayed that Nigeria will be better for fruitful business in years to come.

NOA State Director, Mrs Tracy Ikolomi thanked the cooperative for a stellar performance and charged the newly elected Excos to do better in coming years.
She decried the poor turnout at the AGM in spite of members cutting across the 25 LGAs of Delta State and suggested that online meetings should be explored in subsequent meetings to enable members in distant locations to attend meetings. She also charged the newly elected Excos to embark on membership drive as some newly employed staff of the Agency are yet to join while some older members have bowed out of service on retirement.
She concluded by commending members who attended from surrounding LGAs and prayed for profitable business years ahead

Highlights of the event were review of financial records of the year, vote of thanks, dissolution of excos, nomination and election of new excos, refreshments and group photographs.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has ordered an immediate intervention on the failed Mosogar-Oghara section of the Warri-Benin Highway, moving to ease the suffering of thousands of motorists and commuters plying one of Nigeria’s busiest federal highways.

The directive followed widespread complaints by road users on social and conventional media over the deplorable condition of the strategic highway, which has in recent months become a major source of gridlock, extended travel time and safety concerns.

Announcing the governor’s approval on Wednesday, the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, said the emergency intervention reflected Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure challenges that directly impact the lives and livelihoods of the people.

Although the Warri-Benin Highway is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, Izeze said the governor considered it imperative to intervene in view of the enormous hardship being experienced by commuters and the strategic importance of the route to economic activities across the South-South region.

According to him, the governor directed that immediate remedial work be carried out to restore traffic flow and improve safety while awaiting a comprehensive reconstruction of the highway by the appropriate federal authorities.

He disclosed that Obakpor Engineering Construction Company had already mobilised to the site with construction materials, including stones and sand, signalling the commencement of the emergency rehabilitation.

The commissioner expressed confidence that the intervention would significantly reduce the suffering of motorists and improve vehicular movement along the affected section.

Izeze noted that the governor’s decision further highlights the spirit of cooperation between the Delta State and Federal Governments in delivering infrastructure that improves the welfare of citizens, describing the intervention as a practical demonstration of the shared development objectives embodied in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. Agenda.

“It further re-emphasises the mutual inclusivity of the BAT/SHERIFF vision for our people as captured by the Renewed Hope/M.O.R.E. Agenda of these national and sub-national visionaries respectively,” he said.

The Warri-Benin Highway serves as a major gateway linking the South-South with other parts of the country and is heavily used by commuters, commercial transport operators and haulage vehicles conveying petroleum products, agricultural produce and other goods.

The failed Mosogar-Oghara axis has become one of the most challenging sections of the highway, with persistent deterioration resulting in frequent traffic bottlenecks, vehicle breakdowns and increased transportation costs.

The state government’s intervention is therefore expected to provide immediate relief to road users while reinforcing its commitment to responsive governance and the well-being of the people.

Delta State is positioning itself as Nigeria’s emerging investment hub by leveraging on massive infrastructure development, abundant natural resources, reliable power supply and strategic maritime assets, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, has said.

Speaking during a press briefing ahead of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 slated for 3rd-5th August in Asaba, on Wednesday, Emu said the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration had laid a solid foundation for industrialisation through sustained investments in roads, bridges, power and transport infrastructure.

He said government had constructed and rehabilitated over 2,600 kilometres of roads and more than 20 bridges, opening up rural communities, reducing transportation costs and connecting economic corridors across the state.

According to him, one of Delta’s biggest competitive advantages is the Delta Special Economic Zone, which offers investors access to some of the cheapest and most reliable power supply in Nigeria due to its proximity to the OB-3 gas pipeline.

“The infrastructure has been provided. Government has created the enabling environment. Investors can come into Delta and enjoy competitive energy costs that many other states cannot offer,” he said.

Emu disclosed that the state already operates an independent power infrastructure supplying about 8.5 megawatts of electricity to government facilities and public institutions, while ongoing electricity sector reforms would further expand access to affordable power for industries.

He also highlighted Delta’s strategic maritime advantages, noting that the state boasts of four seaports, two airports and a 163-kilometre Atlantic coastline, making it one of Nigeria’s most strategically located investment destinations.

According to him, the administration intends to unlock the vast economic opportunities within the blue economy by promoting aquaculture, commercial fishing, fish feed production, cold-chain logistics, seafood processing and marine transportation.

He noted that Delta possesses one of West Africa’s largest concentrations of fish ponds around the Ekpan and Ugborikoko axis, where fish farming has transformed livelihoods and created sustainable employment for thousands of residents.

Beyond the blue economy, Emu said Delta is richly endowed with commercially viable deposits of coal, lignite, kaolin and silica, which present significant opportunities for mining, manufacturing and power generation.

He explained that coal mined in parts of the state currently supplies major cement manufacturers, while proposals were underway for coal-based electricity generation to support industrial expansion.

The SSG said the state government had spent the last three years engaging investors across China, Brazil and other strategic markets to market Delta’s investment opportunities.

He disclosed that direct investment engagements in São Paulo had yielded positive results, with Brazilian companies expected to participate in the summit, while Chinese businesses had also indicated strong interest.

Emu said the state had developed comprehensive investment prospectuses and launched a dedicated summit website to facilitate investor engagement before and after the event.

He expressed confidence that the summit would mark a turning point in Delta’s economic transformation by attracting investments capable of deepening industrialisation, expanding exports and creating employment for the state’s youthful population.

“The opportunities are enormous. We have the resources, the infrastructure, the connectivity and the political will. What we seek now is partnership with investors who are ready to grow with Delta,” he said.

The Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU) has congratulated an illustrious son of Ndokwa, Nelson Nwamanna from Ossisa, on his promotion to the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP).

In a press statement,  signed by the President General of the union, Chief Amechi Asugwuni,  and made available to the press, Asugwuni described Nwamanna’s elevation as well-deserved and divinely ordained. He attributed the promotion to the officer’s dedication, hard work, and sacrificial service to the nation.

Chief Asugwuni wished the new Commissioner of Police success in his new assignment and prayed for God’s wisdom, guidance, and protection as he takes on his new responsibilities.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) heartily congratulates its Vice Chairman, Elder Chukwudi Abiandu, on the joyous occasion of his 70th birthday, celebrating a remarkable life dedicated to journalism, public communication, and nation-building. As a veteran journalist with over three decades of distinguished professional experience, media and public relations consultant, and Publisher of Banneronlinenews, Elder Abiandu has remained a shining example of excellence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism.

This was contained in a press release signed by the Forum’s secretary, Comrade Shedrack Onitsha, Fcism, Mnipr.

Throughout his illustrious career, Elder Abiandu has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, public institutions, and the wider society through his balanced reporting, insightful analysis, and dedication to promoting truth, justice, and responsible media practice. His invaluable contributions to the growth of online journalism in Delta State and Nigeria, coupled with his mentorship of younger media professionals, have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire the next generation of journalists.

As Vice Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Elder Abiandu has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership, wisdom, and selfless service. His wealth of experience, calm disposition, and commitment to the ideals of professionalism have greatly strengthened the Forum and contributed to its unity, credibility, and growing influence within the media landscape. His counsel and guidance have remained invaluable in advancing DOPF’s vision of promoting responsible digital journalism and defending the integrity of the profession.

The statement reads in part:

“On this milestone birthday, the entire membership of the Delta Online Publishers Forum celebrates an accomplished media icon, a respected public relations strategist, and an elder statesman whose life exemplifies dedication, humility, and service to humanity. We join your family, friends, associates, and numerous admirers in thanking God for preserving you in good health, abundant grace, and strength over the years.”

“As you mark your 70th birthday, we pray that Almighty God grants you many more years of sound health, divine protection, renewed strength, and greater accomplishments. May your wisdom continue to illuminate the path for the media profession, and may your contributions to journalism and national development remain impactful for generations to come. Happy Birthday, Elder Chukwudi Abiandu”

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday charged appointed public office holders to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

He said their appointments come with the responsibility of strengthening governance and advancing development across the state.

The governor gave the charge in Asaba during the swearing-in of Mr. Brave Enodeh and Mr. Moses Ogodo as Commissioners and members of the State Executive Council; Mr. Cosmas Igbenije as a member of the Governing Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC); and Chief Joseph Ojobu, Chief James Obeuwou and Mr. Fun-Ebi Edonyabo as members of the Delta State Judicial Service Commission.

Oborevwori noted that Enodeh and Ogodo were appointed, following the resignation of two former commissioners who resigned to contest elections into the Delta State House of Assembly.

Addressing the appointees, the governor said they must demonstrate leadership, integrity, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty in order to strengthen democratic institutions in the state.

He said their responsibilities extend beyond policy formulation to ensuring transparency, accountability and fairness in the conduct of the commission’s affairs.

Oborevwori said, “your actions should inspire public confidence and reinforce our administration’s commitment to the MORE Agenda”.

Congratulating Mr. Igbenije on his appointment to the DESOPADEC Governing Board, Oborevwori urged him to justify the confidence reposed in him through discipline, dedication and commitment to the development of oil-producing communities.

He recalled that the tenure of the current DESOPADEC Governing Board was recently extended by one year to ensure continuity in the implementation of ongoing programmes and the effective discharge of the commission’s statutory responsibilities.

According to him, the board has recorded significant achievements in the provision of roads, classroom blocks, markets, health centres, electricity infrastructure, water projects and other community development initiatives across oil-bearing communities.

The governor expressed confidence that the board would consolidate on its achievements by expanding infrastructural development and deepening human capital development, while urging members to continue involving host communities in decision-making so that projects reflect the aspirations of the people.

Speaking to the newly inaugurated members of the Delta State Judicial Service Commission, Oborevwori said only men and women of proven integrity and unquestionable character could be entrusted with the constitutional responsibility of overseeing the appointment, promotion, discipline and welfare of judicial officers.

He urged the commission to discharge its responsibilities with fairness, impartiality, transparency and the fear of God to sustain a corruption-free, independent and effective judiciary.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, Oborevwori assured Deltans that his government would continue to partner with the judiciary to strengthen the justice sector and make it a model for other states.

He congratulated all the appointees and prayed for God’s wisdom, strength and good health to enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Mr. Brave Enodeh thanked Governor Oborevwori for finding them worthy to serve in his administration.

He pledged the commitment of the new appointees to the governor’s vision, assuring that they would work diligently to advance the M.O.R.E. Agenda in the overall interest and development of Delta State.

The legal team of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko has today reacted almost immediately to the ruling of the Federal High Court, Abuja which struck out a substantive suit challenging the APC senatorial candidacy of Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

This is following today’s ruling by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that struck out the suit filed by Senator Ned Nwoko against Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for being incompetent and fundamentally defective.

Senator Ned Nwoko, who contested the APC senatorial primaries against Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, had earlier approached the court to void Okowa’s emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Delta North Senatorial District, claiming that the official result announced by the party which recorded that Okowa secured 113,309 against his recorded 2,612 votes, was premeditated and false,. He insisted that there are extensive video evidences showing  he (Nwoko) actually won the grassroots vote.

A preliminary procedural error was spotted as the suit was initially filed through a proxy, Dr. Mike Nwoko instead of the proper aggrieved party Senator Ned Nwoko, and upon realizing the mistake, Senator Nwoko applied for a leave to amend the court processes so that it would reflect that he, and not Dr. Mike Nwoko, was the actual aggrieved person in the pre-election matter – in which a leave to amend was granted by the court in this regards.

That move was immediately challenged by the defence counsel, and the court later upheld the defence, stating that the originating process was rendered incompetent by the error thereby stripping the court off jurisdiction.

Reacting to the ruling and misrepresentation of facts from the defendant’s camp, the legal team juxtaposed the difference and implication of sticking out a suit and dismissing a suit, placing the two legal terminologies in their right perspectives in order not to misinform the unsuspecting public.

“With the suit struck out by the high court and not dismissed, the claimant has the latitude to file a motion to relist the suit, refile the same suit with another suit number after all procedural errors have been amended or appeal the ruling , in other not to prejudice the merit of the case;” the legal team of the claimant states. The legal team insists that procedural errors at preliminary stage do not render a suit, then the court, incompetent, since a leave to amend is usually granted by the court to enable it entertain the merit of the case.

It further noted that the high court ruling is unfortunate and deeply concerning, noting that as the claimant’s legal team, it has the strict instruction to file an appeal immediately and is confident that the Appellate Court will overturn the ruling.

“The ruling is suspicious because it was not based on the merits of the case. The same court had earlier granted us leave to amend our processes but later set aside that order on its own motion, without justification, after it had exhausted its powers. This is an attempt to sabotage the substantive suit at this preliminary stage. It is imperative that the suit be heard on its merits;” the legal team maintained.

The legal team insists that the claimant is determined to pursue the appeal to ensure justice is done and seen to be done, while urging supporters and all stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding as the appellate process unfolds, adding that
Senator Nwoko reaffirms his commitment to equity, transparency, party unity, and the progress of Delta State.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed profound grief over the death of veteran journalist and State Correspondent of News Direct, Comrade Dave Okpogadie, describing his passing as a huge loss to the journalism profession and Delta State.

Okpogadie died on Saturday after a courageous battle with jaw cancer that lasted for more than two years.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori extended his heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, the entire media community and his family.

The governor described the late Okpogadie as a consummate professional whose dedication, integrity and commitment to journalism earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and the wider society.

He noted that the late journalist’s courage, resilience and unwavering faith throughout his prolonged illness served as an inspiration to many who stood by him during his difficult journey.

Governor Oborevwori prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed media veteran and asked God to grant his family, friends, colleagues and members of the NUJ Delta State Council the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

By: Wilbet Ijeoma (News View)

The 2026 FIFA world cup came to a climax today as Spain denied Argentina a back-to-back world cup title as they dethroned reigning champions by 1-0, in a dominant epic clash at New York/New Jersey Stadium.

Lionel Messi and Argentina were vying to become just the third nation to win back-to-back World Cup titles, but it was Spain lifting their second trophy for the first time since 2010.

Ferran Torres 106th minute extra time goal from Nico Williams assist separated the two sides after several attempts which proved decisive following a pulsating 90 minutes regulation time.

It was Spain’s 20th shot, to Argentina’s zero that saw Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinéz helpless after several efforts to keep the ball at abeyance.

Earlier in the match, Argentina were reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernández was sent off for a reckless tackle that made him see the yellow card a second time, reducing the Argentines to 10 men.

Still, Argentina nearly leveled late in extra time, but couldn’t capitalize on a pair of Messi corner kicks, with Giuliano Simeone firing over the crossbar in stoppage time.

Spain’s superior and dominant display over Argentina throughout the duration of the final match was a masterclass, with wins over four of the world’s top ten teams during the knockout stages. Moreover, they are the first World Cup champion to win the title while only conceding a lone goal.