₦airaland Forum

15th ANIOMA FESTIVAL: “Embracing Our Culture, Strengthen Peace”- Gov. Okowa To Nigerians

Dellta State Governor Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Nigerians to embrace the culture and customs of their communities to strengthen the peace and unity of the country

Speaking today (02-04-18) at the Organisation For The Advancement Of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) “15th Anioma Cultural Festival” with the theme” Building Bridges” in Asaba, Governor Okowa said that embracing our culture would help to build bridges across various ethnic groups in the country and strengthen the peace.

“I want to complement the organisers of this festival for keeping hope alive, organise our people to come together and create this cultural festival , we have to be proud of our cultural heritage, we must associate with ourselves,think together, encourage our youths to understanding our customs, culture, and we will build a stronger society”, he said, emphasising that when we are united we will remain peaceful and add value to the peace of the state.

“With the bridges we have build and the presence of the traditional rulers from across the state, the hand of fellowship will continue to strengthen the peace in the state', the governor said.

He commended the organisers of the festival, for building bridges across the various senatorial districts in the state assuring them of government's cooperation and support in their various activities,

Earlier, The President of OFAAC, Engr Kester Ifeadi in an opening address, said that The cultural festival was an epochal event for all sons and daughters of Anioma and served as a rallying point for cultural rebirth and unification of Anioma communititis in Delta State.

According to him, this theme of this year's festival -“Building Bridges” was chosen to highlight the need to bridges of unity for harmonious and peaceful coexistence among various ethnic groups in the country.

Meanwhile, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa also attended the 65th birthday of Chief Paul Enebeli at Asaba where he enjoined him to continue to utilise his services for the benefit of his community and state.

Town Hall Meetings, Inspection, Commissioning Of Projects To Hold In Warri North, South Tuesday, Wednesday

In continuation of the third phase of the Town Hall meetings, inspection and commissioning of projects by the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the team will visit Warri North and Warri South Local Government Areas on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 3 and 4, 2018.

A statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Chairman of the organising committee of the event, Mr. Patrick Ukah, disclosed that the Governor will commission 5 projects in Warri North on Tuesday.

The projects are Access Road to Awaritse Industrial Park, Obitugbo (Phase 1), Korobe Road, Koko, Lucky Kpenosen Road, Koko, Iwere College Road, Koko, and Alema College, Abigborodo.

Same day, Senator Okowa will visit the Olu of Warri between 2.20pm and 2.50pm and thereafter embark on the commissioning of the rehabilitated NPA Bye Pass Road (from New Port Gate to Old Port Gate), Esiri Road, off Upper Erejuwa, Warri, Ugberikoko-Poloko Market Road and Hon. Chief Frank Omare Crescent, Okumagba Layout.

The Governor will also inspect the dualization of Effurun-Enerhen Road and the construction of Access Road, Ubeji same Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Senator Okowa will hold Town Hall meetings with persons drawn from different groups in the two local government areas at Federal Government College Hall in Warri South by 10am and Community Hall, Koko, by 1pm.

The meetings are meant to provide the Governor the opportunity to present his score card to the people and allow them to react and ask questions.

EASTER: Okowa Urges Christians To Live Righteous Life

AS Christians all over the world celebrate Easter, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said the celebration can only be complete when the people live righteous life.

The Governor who spoke at the 86th birthday celebration of Deaconess Esther Eruemulor at Church of God Mission, Agbor on Sunday (01/04/18) stated that Easter will be beneficial when there is true repentance.

“We should remember what this season represents, we are all sinners and with the realisation that our sins have been taken away, let us give our life totally to God, be obedient to God's commandments and His teaching,” the Governor who was accompanied to the service by his wife, Dame Edith said.

He emphasised, “a wonderful Easter celebration can only be when you have given your life to God, by His (Jesus Christ) rising, we have all being lifted to the glory of God.”

The Governor congratulated Deaconess Eruemulor, observing that she was a great mobiliser as a politician and wonderful mother, adding, “the greatest thing that God has done for the family is that Mama knew God and grew to become a Deaconess in the Church.”

He also thanked her children for celebrating their mother. Bishop Mathew Iregbenye, of Church of God Mission, Benin City, had in a sermon, said the Angels did not remove the stone for Jesus to rise, but such was done for people to go in and confirm that He has risen.

“Jesus appeared to His disciples when everywhere was locked, all men die but, only Jesus Christ resurrected, God has come to redeem us, He gave us a place to rejoice, man left it and He came back again to give us life; except a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God,” he stated.

Also today, Governor Okowa was at Ibusa, Oshimili North local government area of Delta State where he attended the 90th birthday of Raphael Ezeoba, father of Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba (rtd), who was the 20th Chief of Naval Staff.

Governor Okowa, his Edo State counterpart, Mr Godwin Obaseki, former Governor James Ibori, Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, among other personalities attended the chiieftaincy title of Barr. (Mrs) Josephine Kachikwu, Chairman, Delta State House of Assembly Service Commission at Onicha-Ugbo, Aniocha North local government area of Delta State.

She was conferred with Ochiligwe of Onicha-Ugbo and Ezinne of Oligbo Kingdom.

NATIONAL HEALTH ACT :” Effective Implementation Will Boost Health Care Delivery “ - Gov. Okowa

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has called for the effective implementation of the National Health Act so as to improve health care delivery in the country.

Speaking on Tuesday (27-03-18} when Senator Alkali Tajere, Chairman Federal Medical Centre {FMC} Asaba, led members of his board on a courtesy visit to Government House, Governor Okowa said that proper implementation of the National health Act will regulate the health care industry and ensure effective health care delivery in the country.

He urged state governments to domesticate the Act in their states and enforce it through effective sensitization and advocacy stressing that “the health of our people is very important in the developmental indices of the country”

“ I want to thank you for remembering the issue of the National Health Act and its passage into law, ten years after its passage, the Act is still not fully operational in Nigeria, we have less than ten percent of the population enrolled for the Act there is room for improvement. I wish to urge state governors to domesticate this Act and enforce it through sensitization and advocacy of their people as the Act will not only moderate the various operators in the health care industry but also ensure effective health care for our people.” He said.

He commended the Board and Management of the Federal Medical Centre for their services to Deltans and people from neighbouring states promising to continue to support the hospital in its developmental activities.

He charged the reconstituted board to ensure that they give effective assistance to the FMC in its annual budgets and projects.

Earlier, Senator Tajere said they were in Asaba for their inaugural meeting and to familiarise themselves with the activities of the centre.

He commended Governor Okowa for the developmental strides in the state and for piloting the passage of the National Health Act describing him as the architect of modern Delta.

Okowa And Accountability: The Media Brief Option

FROM all honest intents and purposes, it is quite difficult, if not impossible, to truly tell at what point the vital principle and practice of accountability became part of human experience.

This is because, of the truth, there is very scant record in that respect in the world of today, especially in the developing part of it where the vital engagement of record keeping is seen as a luxury rather than a vital necessity. This is the main reason that it remains difficult, even in the contemporary world where science and its product, technology, have assumed an unquestionable potency in responding to virtually all scenarios and situations and acquired an uncommon application ubiquity, to establish with pin-point certitude when accountability crept into the life of man and his society.

However, may be one clear religious account can help in this regard; the story of the creation of man as recorded in the Christian holy writ, the Bible.

That story, aptly captured as the Bible account of creation, goes thus: At creation, God made a couple named Adam and Eve, both of who He put in the idyllic Garden of Eden, in which, the critical elements of nature correlated in such a mystical ambience that made the habitat unparalleled in terms of not just physical beauty, but perhaps, much more importantly, in the positive correlation between all elements of Mother Nature.

But that is not the main appeal in the story, as it relates to our subject, today.

According to the story, God, on completion of the creation process, gave the couple command as to what they should eat of and what they should prohibit. In simple terms, by that simple action, God Himself set the rule(s) of engagement for both Adam, and the woman, Eve. By the same principle of that action, God set in motion, the imperative of accountability. And this was soon to be evident.

In the course of their stay in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve, reportedly after deception by the satan, decoyed as a snake, ate of the forbidden fruit, and on the strength of their transgression, came to the knowledge of their unclothedness.
The rest, as it is said, is history.

As God came by, He asked Adam –who had apparently huddled out of sight out of both shame and fear- where he was and he reportedly said that he was ashamed of his unclothedness after Eve (the woman he said God gave him) misled him into eating the fruit God had stridently forbidden them from eating.

In understandable anger, God sanctioned Adam to a life of hard labour, and Eve to a syndrome of the pangs of labour. As for satan, he was to crawl on its belly and of dust it must feed, for all of life. And that was it.

For failing to meet the responsibility embedded in the opportunity inherent in their privileged stay in the Garden, God appropriately punished the couple, and satan, and ever since then, the basic principle of accountability inherent in the above story has remained a core part of the story of man; it may yet remain so for all of aeons.
As man and his society climbed the ladder of time and made progress in terms of civilisation, the imperative to enforce the principle of accountability and to sanction breaches became more compelling.

It is realisation of the critical place of accountability in the life of leadership-at the individual and corporate levels-that the Okowa government has accorded it due slant. Profuse expressions of the conviction of the administration in this regard and its abiding faith in due deference to accountability as the primary gain of leadership, have found eloquence in its regular gubernatorial media interactions, post-State Executive Council (EXCO) media briefs, ministerial press briefings and regular media chats by commissioners and other flowers of the administration.

The positive disposition of the administration in this regard is pegged-quite rightly-on the fact that, in a democracy such as we profess, the people, by whose grace it holds power, are the sovereign, the true custodians of authority and legitimacy.

In the course of its exercise of the reins of power inherent in the mandate he earned on account of the outcome of the 2015 governorship poll in the state, Governor Okowa has, aside all other strategies, opted for the calibrated media briefs at which he strives to attain multiple goals at the same time-unfold the goals and purpose of his administration and its challenges so far and feel the public pulse by proxy-via the press-which, as the fourth estate of the realm, is classically and uniquely equipped for the vital role of two-way communication between the core stakeholders in the game of public administration-the leadership and the followership, otherwise called the people, the sovereign.

The media brief sessions hold quarterly and at each session, Okowa, in a no holds-barred format, fields questions on virtually every subject as they affect his administration and the wellbeing of the people, by whose grace it was elected into office in the first instance.

The last of the briefs took place on Wednesday, March 21, 2018, and, as usual, the echelon of the mass media in and around the state had effective presence and interacted with him on the firm basis of their professional calling, raising questions and seeking answers to myriad issues. In all, Okowa provided answers, which were impressive in their range and depth, to the issues raised and the matters canvassed.

Evidently, the media briefs help Okowa attain multiple beneficial goals in the following ways:

(a) PLATFORM FOR PASSING ACROSS VITAL INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC
By the nature of the media briefs, the governor is able to pass vital information to the mass of the public via the media channels available. In this way, the public is made aware of the goals , aspirations and challenges of the government and the strategies and tactics it is adopting to attain them or respond to the situation-as in the case of challenges.

(b)AVENUE FOR FERRETING INFORMATION
Without an iota of doubt, no government, no matter its reach and popularity, can have access to all of the challenges that face its people and their opinion on them. But thanks to the press, especially at such fora as the media brief in issue, the governor and the government are able, mainly based on the questions raised and the matters canvassed, to know far more than is otherwise feasible, the development and other challenges facing the people over whom they govern.

(c)AS A GUIDE POST
Like its other contemporaries, the administration, latching on the information ferreted at the media briefs, becomes in a better position to know the challenges facing its people and, on the strength of the rich stock of knowledge and information available to it, uses them in drawing up its policies and programmes, thus effectively using the brief as a guide post.

Culled from the Pointer

STI, Critical Element In Nigeria’s Economic Diversification, Says Okowa.


BY ANDREW IKEHI
DELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has said that in order to achieve the nation’s goal of diversifying its economy and thus; revamp it from the present status, Science, Technology and Innovations (STI) must form the major bedrock.
The Governor stated this in Asaba, the state capital during the opening ceremony of the 2017 Delta State Science Technology and Innovation council meeting organised by the State Ministry of Science and Technology.
The theme of the meeting, our correspondent reports, is; Science Technology and Innovation: Translating Ideas to Economic Prosperity”.
The Governor who was represented by the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Chiedu Ebie said that given the dwindling price of oil at the international market, coupled with the competitiveness in other alternatives, it has become imperative that the nation should begin to channel attention to resuscitating and activating of its inherent potentials using science, technology and innovation.
He said that as part of deliberate move by the state government to ensure accelerated industrialisation in the state, the state government is keen on jump starting the innovative and inventive mindset among youths in the state by harnessing and encouraging ingenious, resourceful and self-sustainig ideas.
While describing the meeting as apt and timely given its theme;”Science, Technology and Innovation:Translating ideas to Economic Prosperity” Governor Okowa enjoined the council meeting to assist in creating veritable platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) investment, manufacturing of goods and services that would meet international specified standards
He said, “It is hoped that at the end of this meeting, the state will have a workable document that will be invaluable towards restructuring all sectors for the realisation of a sustainable economy that does not only promote knowledge acquisition, but encourage the application of the acquired knowledge to facilitate a sustained productive economy”.
In his address of welcome at the event, the state commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Joyce Overah said “No state can achieve its development goals of food security, wealth and job creation, poverty alleviation, without the right application of scientific and technical knowledge”.

Okowa Flags Off TURECC 1,000 Housing Units March 30


THE Delta State Governor, Senator
(Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa will on Friday, March 30, 2018, perform
the flag-off ceremony of 1000 Housing Units for Deltans to own their houses, build on their own land with payment spread within two and 25 years.
Managing Director of TURECC, a Multi-national Estate Developer, Engr. Peters Elvis Uto, made the disclosure
in a chat with The Pointer in his office at Asaba.
He said that the occasion, which also will have the governor as special
guest of honour, will take place at Orchid Hotels, Asaba, beginning at 10 am.
According to him, “The main attraction of the event is that one person shall be picked by the govCoverernor through an open ballot. A house will be built for the lucky person by our company on the person’s own land in any location in Delta State,” he said.
The TURECC boss, who described Delta State as not only an investment haven but also a fertile land for investors with huge returns on investment, commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for providing the enabling environment for investors to invest in the state.
He expressed joy for partnering the state government through Delta Trust Mortgage Finance Limited to build 1000 housing units for Deltans, saying that it is a partnership
that will work for the benefit of all.
While calling on Deltans to avail themselves of the opportunity
to own their houses, he appreciated the state government for believing and having faith in TURECC, saying, “We are irrevocably committed to delivering on our mandate and thus add value to the lives of Deltans in line with the SMART Agenda of the present administration”.

NATIONAL HEALTH ACT :” Effective Implementation Will Boost Health Care Delivery “ - Gov. Okowa

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has called for the effective implementation of the National Health Act so as to improve health care delivery in the country.

Speaking on yesterday (27-03-18} when Senator Alkali Tajere, Chairman Federal Medical Centre {FMC} Asaba, led members of his board on a courtesy visit to Government House, Governor Okowa said that proper implementation of the National health Act will regulate the health care industry and ensure effective health care delivery in the country.

He urged state governments to domesticate the Act in their states and enforce it through effective sensitization and advocacy stressing that “the health of our people is very important in the developmental indices of the country”

“ I want to thank you for remembering the issue of the National Health Act and its passage into law, ten years after its passage, the Act is still not fully operational in Nigeria, we have less than ten percent of the population enrolled for the Act there is room for improvement. I wish to urge state governors to domesticate this Act and enforce it through sensitization and advocacy of their people as the Act will not only moderate the various operators in the health care industry but also ensure effective health care for our people.” He said.

He commended the Board and Management of the Federal Medical Centre for their services to Deltans and people from neighbouring states promising to continue to support the hospital in its developmental activities.

He charged the reconstituted board to ensure that they give effective assistance to the FMC in its annual budgets and projects.

Earlier, Senator Tajere said they were in Asaba for their inaugural meeting and to familiarise themselves with the activities of the centre.

He commended Governor Okowa for the developmental strides in the state and for piloting the passage of the National Health Act describing him as the architect of modern Delta.

Ilolo To Deltans Ahead 2019 Polls: Let Okowa’s Monumental Achievements Decide Your Vote For Him


BY CHARLES EMENI
AHEAD of the 2019 general elections, Deltans have been advised to look at the monumental achievements of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and how he has, within three years, positively impacted the lives of the people.
Giving the advice in an interview in Asaba, the State Commissioner, Directorate of Local Government Affairs, Mr. Oghenekaro Ilolo, said that ‘it is amazing how Governor Okowa has been able to manage the states’ resources, even in the face of economic recession, such that the negative effect of the recession was minimally felt in the state.’
He listed some of the monumental achievements of the governor, within the short period he has been in office to include regular payment of workers’ salaries, the peace and security being enjoyed in the state, which has led to the attraction of investors to do business in the state, massive roads construction and rehabilitation that cuts across the three senatorial districts.
Others, he said included the ongoing work at the Asaba Airport, the storm drain project and the new secretariat project in Asaba, where work is going on day and night.
Also, worthy of mention, he said, is Governor Okowa’s commitment to linking the riverine areas like Ogulaha and other Ijaw and Itsekiri communities with roads that would help to boost the socio-economic life of the people.
For the sake of this and many more, the commissioner said that Deltans are lucky to have Senator Okowa as their governor. “I am saying this with a sense of responsibility that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is the man to watch out for in the 2019 governorship election in Delta State,’’ the commissioner said. While saying that the governor’s achievements so far are unprecedented and reflect the true personality that he is, the commissioner attributed his success story to his “all inclusive approach” to handling the affairs of the state.
Beyond this, he said that Deltans ‘are fortunate to have a governor who has a listening ear and who is ideas-driven in Governor Okowa’ whom, he said, has seen it all in politics and administration, adding that he was a local government chairman, civil commissioner, secretary to state government, a distinguished senator and now the Executive Governor of Delta State.
“And having been through all of these, he is well grounded not only for the position of Governor of Delta State now, but for re-election to the same position, come 2019.And as proof that the governor is in charge and that he is the man to watch out for in 2019, you need to be on top of your game when you are working with him because he is thoroughly efficient and has no room for mediocrity in his cabinet,” the commissioner said.

ORGANIC INTEGRATION: IGBAKPA’S FOCUS ON RENEWAL AND ELEVATION OF ETHIOPE

“As the builders say, the larger stones do not lie well without the lesser.” – Plato.

One very vital fact in the structural design of buildings is that no building in the world is built with stones and elements of equal size. Though I do not want to concern myself with issues of architecture, but I recognize that anything, edifice or entity, that must stand strong, and sustainably so, must be made up of elements that are proportionately distributed, from pedestal to pinnacle. Nothing and no one in life can fulfil himself independently, banking solely on the relationship of its kind. You would need everyone small and big to achieve that life objective. This is certainly Hon. Ben Igbakpa’s life and political thinking – that everyone notwithstanding social rank is carried along with dutiful responsibility, to fulfil the goals of human capital development.

Igbakpa’s transparent message of comprehensive and shared responsibility has erupted an attitude of all-encompassing courage and loyalty from people across board, who believe that his kind of political ethos should be the spine of political representation from wards through to the national level. For the people of Ethiope, they have rallied themselves courageously to demand modification to their elective representative arrangement and avowed to follow Igbakpa with total allegiance and loyalty, because he is the one who really make them feel as important members of the sociopolitical economy.

Igbakpa’s leadership style is pleasingly bona fide. He has been around the political scenery for so long, you can be sure he doesn’t put all his eggs in anybody’s basket. You hardly ever sense Igbakpa is affirming something or functioning in a particular mode for the reason that it favours the connivance of any cabal, and that is the sort of strong, influential and assertive leader the people of Ethiope truly need. One whose words and actions are considered for the primary consideration of the people. There would be no hidden charges that amount to the cost of his emergence as the leader of the people, because in all the capacities he has functioned, he has taken up all of his obligations quite distinctively.

- Lewis Ebode

Joy As Okowa Resumes Commissioning, Inspection Of Projects

BY Fidelis Egugbo

ON Tuesday, March 6, 2018, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa resumed visits to different local government areas of Delta State to inspect and commission projects executed by his administration.
During each of the visits, the governor usually, spent two days in the local government area. While the first day is used for the inspection and commissioning of projects, the next day is solely devoted for town hall meeting with the people of the area where they leverage on the platform provided to air their views as well as interact with the governor and other government officials about the government or any other issue of interest to them.
Governor Okowa, at each of the town hall meetings, gave listening ears to traditional rulers, their subjects, representatives of different groups with prompt answers to their questions with all sense of sincerity. He has never hidden his passion for accountable and transparent government.
The town hall meetings, in a way, have shown to the world that while some politicians who are at the helms of affairs shy away from meeting their constituents, Governor Okowa sees Deltans as a people whose welfare must remain paramount in his actions.
As such, at every kingdom he visited, he was welcomed as one of their subjects. So, penultimate Tuesday, Governor Okowa and his deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, top government functionaries and prominent politicians commissioned the Isiokolo/Orhoakpor/Ekrerhavwe, and Abraka township roads in Ethiope East local government area.
He also commissioned the phase II of Amai/Ezhionum/Abbi road and Umutu Skill Acquisition Centre in Ukwuani local government area of the state and also, inspected the level of construction work done at the Okurekpo/Okunor-Okpara/Onumane/Samagidi road, and multi-billion naira Senate building at the Delta State University, Abraka, Ethiope East local government area of the state.
Four days ago, he inspected blocks of classrooms being constructed at Eni Grammar School, Evwreni, reconstruction and equipping of Ogor Technical College, Otor-Ogor, construction of Royal Avenue/Prince Oharisi Drive, Government Secondary School and Orherhe/Otokutu road in Ughelli North local government area.
That same day, he also inspected on-going rehabilitation of Urban Water Supply Scheme, General Hospital, ultra-modern market and Reinforced Concrete Pavement being done by his administration at Bomadi, Bomadi local government area of the state.
So far, the governor has visited 19 local government areas where he inspected and commissioned projects and had town hall meetings with the people of the areas giving credence to the fact that there is no local government area in the state where his administration has not executed people-oriented projects.
At all the places visited, the excitement could be felt. While most of them sings the praises of Governor Okowa for his developmental strides, some of them, still make demands. Such demands the governor said, were very necessary because, the budget of the state were mainly based on the needs of the people.
One word that never missed the lips of Governor Okowa at all the places he visited is, PEACE. To him, the existing peace in the state accounted largely for the possible for the successes recorded by his administration, observing that with peace, his administration was not witnessing any distractions, but, rather concentrating on delivering people-oriented projects.
"The support of our royal fathers is wonderful, it has done a lot for us to deliver good governance for our people, with the peace that exists in your kingdoms, we have the opportunity to work for our people, without peace, we will be distracted.
It is our prayers that we remain as a peaceful state," the Governor said during one his courtesy visits to the traditional rulers.

(As published on page 10 of The Pointer Newspaper of Sunday, March 18, 2018. God bless you)

Gov Okowa is the best Gov in today's Nigeria.

By EA Uzumnism.

Delta today is anchored on a very robust economic footing. We have the right socio-economic economic pillars in place for development. No state can strive in an atmosphere of war but today's Delta has seen peace like never before.

What about the human capacity module developed and now being implemented in Delta, it is a notorious fact that the world Bank is partnering and savoring the symbiotic relationship with Delta. What about infrastructure. Delta State is a construction site.

The perennial flooding that has always left Asaba battered will soon be a thing of the past as Delta State Govt has embarked on a multi billion storm check project that will stem the tide.

Job creation is a Star priority in Delta State with over 3069 persons now entrepreneurs from training and support from DTSG. This has as well created over 40 thousand jobs on the value chain.

Star projects like the Asaba stadium, Asaba Airport runway, teachers institute, the new multi billion state secretariat, Asaba mechanic village complex and more are clear examples of people Oriented projects.

The prompt payment of salaries is a given, dwelling on it will be over flogging issues.

A govt must make sacrifices that's why Gov Okowa is everywhere. This Govt sees the local Govt Council as partners and the partnership is working very well though not without inherent challenges occasioned by federal economic recession to which Gov Okowa masterly handled.

It is not in dispute that over 170 roads have been awarded with over 40% completed and commissioned. This has earned our dear Gov the title of road master.

Information dissemination, management and perception has also taken a more frontal and pivotal posture within the streams of Gov Okowa's administration.

The Directorate of Orientation has taken Govt policies to the door steps of the citizens. Theve embarked on campaigns against drug abuse, pipeline vandalisation, anti cult crusade and now sensization on Voter registration.

The policies of Govt have as well being taken to the electorate thru radio programs, television documentaries, townhall meetings etc.

Gov Okowa led administration have done creditably well in all ramifications. The reward for Hardwork is more work.

Gov Okowa continues till 2023.

DIFO Inaugurates Isoko Nation Chapter
...Endorses Gov. Okowa for second term

Delta Initiative forum State executives yesterday inaugurated the Isoko Nation chapter of the body on 23rd of March, 2018 as they passed vote of confidence and endorsed Governor Okowa for second term come 2019.

Delta Initiative forum state Executives lead by the DG Comrade Emmanuel Mormah Inaugurated the Isoko Nation chapter of the body in a well attended gathering that was held in Lolo city hotel Ozoro Isoko North Local Government. He charged the newly elected and inaugurated executives to be more committed to ensure PDP success in all elections come 2019 especially the return of Governor Okowa for second term.. More so, he said Okowa project is DIFO project.

In the acceptance speech by Comrade Ephraim Oburoh Isoko Nation chapter Coordinator, thank God Almighty for blessing Delta State, especially Isoko with Governor Okowa and pledged his support as he move the motion for a vote of confidence to the working Givernor Okowa and endorsed Governor Okowa for second term come 2019 his motion was seconded by Comrade Karo J. Edafiejire Ugelli North. The meeting also witnessed the presence of DIFO student wing draw from tertiary institutions across Delta state and beyond. The State

Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Mormah thank God Almighty for the success of the meeting and thanked Comrade Ejiro Oro Delta South Senatorial District Coordinator for the success of the meeting.

At the end of the meeting, DIFO therefore resolved as follows;
1. Intensify online and media awareness campaign of Okowa return to Government house 2019
2. Involve in grass root campaign
3. Ready to campaign for all PDP candidates in 2019 elections
4. DIFO believe in Okowa reelection come 2019
5. Okowa project is DIFO project
6. DIFO call on all Deltans to go get their PVC if they have not done so.
6. DIFO observed lapses in leadership positions therefore move for readjustment...
Asuo Felix will now serve as Ass. Ag. Sectary General. And as well head the media team, Oro Ejiro is Delta south senatorial Coordinator. Osunde. Stanley State students representative. In this new arrangement all other offices are hereby advised to be up and doing in their various office they now occupy especially the office of the Women leader , publicity secretary and that of the treasury, this according to the State Coordinator will enhance productivity in the system especially as election is fast approaching.

The readjusted positions are to commence work with effect from today March 24th 2019.

Sign..
Asuo Felix
Asst. Ag. Secretary DIFO

2019 ELECTIONS: Ndokwa East To Give Okowa, PDP candidates Highest Number Of Votes

TO ensure Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates get the highest number of votes in Ndokwa East local government area of Delta State in the 2019 general elections, stakeholders have resolved to mobilize all eligible voters to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Leaders and stakeholders of the party from the local government area at a meeting held at the country home of Chief Godwill Obielum at Ushie, Ndokwa East local government area resolved that the votes from the area should surpass votes from any other local government area of the state for Governor Okowa to appreciate his (Governor Okowa) good works and encourage him to do more when he emerges for second term. The meeting took place at the weekend.

Those who spoke at the meeting include Chief Obielum, the Chairman of PDP in the local government area, Chief Ugo Asibelua; Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Chika Ossai; former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olisa Imegwu; former Chairmen of the local government council, Chief Mary Chidi, Hon. Sam Chikwuji, and Hon. Nkechi Chukwurah; former Commissioners in the state, Chief George Ugboma and Dr Tabs Ogaranya Tabowei, Chief Emmanuel Onyeuku, among others in their separate contributions, proffered ways to mobilize the people to register.

According to Chief Obielum, "this meeting is very important because, we need to assess the progress we have made in mobilising our people to register, registration is very important if we are going to produce the highest number of votes in the state, we have the population and with our person, Dr Okowa as Governor, we need to show our support with the votes he and other PDP candidates will get from our local government in 2019, because it's going to be PDP all the way in our area."

"Leaders in various wards should sit with the political appointees and discuss the challenges concerning the registration of our people, mobilise them to come out and register because, the votes from Ndokwa East should be used to make a statement that we have the land mass and population; I have urged the Electoral Officer of INEC to increase the number of machines to ensure that everybody who is qualified to vote is captured," Chief Obielum said.

Hon. Ossai at the meeting, observed that awareness for people to come out and register was high and called for more efforts for those who are 18 years and above to get registered to enable them vote in the elections.

He commended Chief Obielum for providing the platform for political stakeholders in Ndokwa East to regularly meet, asserting that such meeting was important for the PDP to be stronger and for the people to be more united.

Chief Mary Chidi in her contribution, noted that Ndokwa East has a difficult terrain but, that should not deprive the people of the opportunity to participate actively in the registration exercise to enable them vote for Governor Okowa in 2019, while Chief Asibelua called for selfless sacrifice from the stakeholders to ensure that the right things are done for the PDP to emerge victorious in the 2019 elections.

"Our leaders should come together and work for the common goal of Delta North and Delta State which is the return of Okowa come 2019, the right information should be given out to members of our party," the PDP Chairman said.

The meeting which lasted for about four hours saw the personalities, resolving to do their best to encourage their people to register to enable them vote for Governor Okowa in 2019.

Chairman of Ndokwa East local government Council, Hon. Juan Amechee Governor and his Vice, Princess Josephine Odu-Bardi, Commissioner in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Hon. Nnamdi, Ezechi, former Editor-in-Chief of The Pointer Newspaper, Prince Mike Oputa, Chief Tony Uti, were among those who were present at the meeting while the Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi who was absent due to some family commitments sent goodwill message and commended Chief Godwill Obielum for his effective leadership qualities which has repositioned Ndokwa East local government area in the Nigeria's political space.

GOV OKOWA: CHANGING THE POLITICAL NARRATIVES IN DELTA STATE.

BY OLOMU ONYIYE.

Politics is a game. And like other games, most of us will agree it should be played by rules and principles.

Unfortunately, the average Nigerian politician does not consciously adhere to any rules. In politics ,he is arrogantly lord to himself - umpire and player at same time.

I can however understand why it's always a do- or - die affair for the average Nigerian politician. When he fails to attain or obtain politically, what else has he to fall back on?

Any skills? Any mental excellence to deploy into other ventures? Any other career to pursue outside that chequered history of sycophancy, thuggery and political flirtation?

From the foregoing therefore, why so many crookedly experienced political masters but so few selfless or altruistic servants among us? Well, Politics is both the MEANS and the END in Nigeria!

Gov Okowa is however labouring tactfully to change this undesirable narrative in Delta State.

Whatever misgivings any critic might claim to have against Gov Okowa, one thing is sure : the Governor is unarguably among the few Chief Executives with whom the power of the masses was/is still potent or effective till date.

A check will definitely reveal that most notable achievements of the State Government came by the will and decision of the people themselves.

From the crafting of the SMART Agenda to its eventual execution till date,the people have been actively carried along throughout.

Even when recently there was a little interruption occasioned by a justified agitation by the Isoko Nation, the Governor went to them himself and this rare feat of humility and prompt responsiveness from a sitting Governor was well acknowledged and applauded by the Isoko Nation.

Furthermore, there is a twist to the recently held Town Hall Meetings which most persons might not have taken note of.

Apart from being acclaimed as a leader who personally takes notes for further reference or usage, Gov Okowa utilizes his Town Hall Meetings to serve a dual purpose.

As earlier stated, first,Town Hall Meetings afford Gov Okowa the opportunity to present his scorecard to the people whom he always acknowledges, gave him the mandate he enjoys today.

Second and more applicable in this discourse, Gov Okowa always looks forward to using information from Town Hall Meetings as basis to effect conception and execution of another tranche of developmental infrastructure or policies for the electorate. This is perhaps nothing but the pursuit of responsive and participatory democracy at its very best.

Lastly, as one earnestly desirous of raising a generation of reliable and commendable political leaders, Gov Okowa is already introducing a culture of accountability, sensitivity and altruism for the electorate among his appointees.

To him, Government appointees should no longer presume that empowering the electorate is only within the purview of the Governor and legislators.

By virtue of his insistence and encouragement, many of his aides have become philanthropic in their communities and surroundings.

They now give scholarships to indigent but intelligent students; they organise Empowerment Schemes to alleviate the level of economic deprivation among community and Constituency folks and some of them even embark on building Skill Acquisition Centres in order to equip youths with economic and coping skills in the midst of today's economic crunch.

It's obviously not yet Eldorado in Delta State. However, one encouraging thing to observe is that not only will the legacies of Gov Okowa set Delta State on an irreversible pathway of human,capital and infrastructural development, the Governor is gradually entrenching a political culture which is returning power to the electorate who are actually the true owners.

God bless Delta State.

Vision Behind New Procurement Regime –Okowa


FIDELIS EGUGBO DELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi
Okowa has said that there will be
openness, budgetary discipline,
improved service delivery with the new
public procurement regime introduced by
his administration.
Governor Okowa made the clarification
yesterday in Asaba while declaring open
a two-day sensitisation workshop for top
public servants on the new public procurement
regime in Delta State.
According to the governor, who spoke
through his Special Adviser on Urban Renewal,
Rt. Hon. Basil Ganagana, “The vision
is to restore prompt service delivery, transparency,
competition, integrity and value
for money in the award and execution of public contracts and procurement of other
services.
“The enactment of the Delta State Procurement
Law in 2016, is part of our desire and
commitment to further entrench prudence
in the management of our state’s resources,
with the introduction of open competitive
bidding, achieving long-term micro-economic stability and added value for money spent,” the governor said, reiterating, “The law is to guide accessing Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including local governments,
to ensure judicious spending of public funds.”
While noting that the workshop was necessary to deepen the knowledge of officers on the provisions of the Delta State Public Procurement Law 2016, Governor Okowa observed that Deltans deserve honest services from all officers who are entrusted with power.
“The vision is to restore prompt service delivery, transparency,
competition, integrity and value for money in the award of and execution of public contracts and procurement of other services because, out interest is to restore openness, budgetary
discipline, optimal cost-saving devices, efficient project implementation and improvement in service delivery,” the governor disclosed.
Director-General, Delta State Public Procurement Commission
(DSPPC), Mr. Joseph Okeze, had, in his address, said, “Public procurements play important roles in determining the extent to which government’s social and economic targets will be attained.”
He commended the Governor Okowa administration for embarking on far-reaching institutional, legal and regulatory reforms since he assumed office in 2015 for the effective execution of the SMART Agenda, adding that the workshop will introduce and interpret the major provisions of the Delta State Public Procurement Law and to understand the basic principles and practice of procurement.

Okowa Seeks Support For Less Privileged Individuals

....As Ibori bags Izonfinowei of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on traditional rulers and other wealthy Nigerians to establish educational endowment funds and scholarship schemes to cater for the educational development of the less privileged and vulnerable people in the society.

Speaking at the weekend in Akugbene, during the 20th Coronation Anniversary Celebrations of HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII, (JP) Pere of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom, Governor Okowa said that the state government is doing a lot to bring quality education to deltans, stressing that wealthy nigerians should partner with government on the education of the less privileged in the society.

"I want to urge as many Deltans as possible to continue to support our children because there are a lot of them who will want to improve on their knowledge, but the very harsh economic conditions do not provide them that opportunity to educate themselves, so for everyone particularly our traditional rulers that do assist the less privileged to obtain knowledge; of course there is a lot blessings that comes to that kingdom with the gesture from the traditional institution.", Senator Okowa said.

He commended the traditional rulers of Akugbenr- Mein for the scholarship scheme, stating "I am truly very happy for the bursary that you (HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII), started in 2012. I pray that God will empower you,because there can be no better development than giving education and the right to knowledge to your people. I also want to make this pledge that the Delta State Government will support your bursary scheme annually in the course of my tenure as Governor.",

Dr Okowa commended former Governor James Ibori for laying the foundation for development in the state especially the construction the Bomadi bridge across the Forcados river., asserting "I must thank our leader, former Governor James Ibori, who because he is a courageous and bold man he took on a project at that time that was nearly impossible for state governments to undertake, the building of the bridge across the Forcados river. It is a thing of joy today that we were able to drive to your kingdom. It is a thing of joy that will ever remain in the hearts of all persons from Akugbene Mein Kingdom." he said

Governor Okowa congratulated the Pere for the peace and development in his kingdom and called on his subjects to continue to support him for more developmental success..

The chairman of the occasion and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, in a brief address, called on traditional rulers to sensitise their subjects on voters registration to enable them vote for leaders of their choice.

Former Governor James Ibori was honoured with the Chieftaincy title of the Izonfinowei of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom in appreciation of his administration's construction of Bomadi bridge linking the many communities in Ijaw land.

Earlier, the celebrant HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII presented award of excellence to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Chief James Ibori and Rear Admiral F.F. Ogu an illustrious son of the kingdom.

Okowa Seeks Support For Less Privileged Individuals

....As Ibori bags Izonfinowei of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on traditional rulers and other wealthy Nigerians to establish educational endowment funds and scholarship schemes to cater for the educational development of the less privileged and vulnerable people in the society.

Speaking at the weekend in Akugbene, during the 20th Coronation Anniversary Celebrations of HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII, (JP) Pere of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom, Governor Okowa said that the state government is doing a lot to bring quality education to deltans, stressing that wealthy nigerians should partner with government on the education of the less privileged in the society.

"I want to urge as many Deltans as possible to continue to support our children because there are a lot of them who will want to improve on their knowledge, but the very harsh economic conditions do not provide them that opportunity to educate themselves, so for everyone particularly our traditional rulers that do assist the less privileged to obtain knowledge; of course there is a lot blessings that comes to that kingdom with the gesture from the traditional institution.", Senator Okowa said.

He commended the traditional rulers of Akugbenr- Mein for the scholarship scheme, stating "I am truly very happy for the bursary that you (HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII), started in 2012. I pray that God will empower you,because there can be no better development than giving education and the right to knowledge to your people. I also want to make this pledge that the Delta State Government will support your bursary scheme annually in the course of my tenure as Governor.",

Dr Okowa commended former Governor James Ibori for laying the foundation for development in the state especially the construction the Bomadi bridge across the Forcados river., asserting "I must thank our leader, former Governor James Ibori, who because he is a courageous and bold man he took on a project at that time that was nearly impossible for state governments to undertake, the building of the bridge across the Forcados river. It is a thing of joy today that we were able to drive to your kingdom. It is a thing of joy that will ever remain in the hearts of all persons from Akugbene Mein Kingdom." he said

Governor Okowa congratulated the Pere for the peace and development in his kingdom and called on his subjects to continue to support him for more developmental success..

The chairman of the occasion and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, in a brief address, called on traditional rulers to sensitise their subjects on voters registration to enable them vote for leaders of their choice.

Former Governor James Ibori was honoured with the Chieftaincy title of the Izonfinowei of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom in appreciation of his administration's construction of Bomadi bridge linking the many communities in Ijaw land.

Earlier, the celebrant HRM Pere S.P. Luke-Kalanama VIII presented award of excellence to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Chief James Ibori and Rear Admiral F.F. Ogu an illustrious son of the kingdom.

Why Govt Embarked On Asaba Storm Drainage Project, By Ukah

RESIDENTS of Delta State Capital Territory, Asaba will soon heave a sign of relief as the Governor Okowa-led administration progresses to complete the ongoing construction of storm drainage to solve the perennial flooding challenges in the area.
The Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah disclosed this while fielding questions from journalists in Asaba, recently, saying that flooding ‘has been a major challenge and would soon be over with the ongoing deep drains being constructed to channel water from the flood prone areas directly into the River Niger.
According to the commissioner, the reason government had to commence the storm drainage was to avoid houses being submerged by flood during the rainy season, especially on the DBS Road and the Secretariat Annex where a lot of cameras and office equipment were lost.
He revealed that professionals like the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Asaba chapter, were consulted in the drainage construction and other reputable and capable companies, saying, “Those living within that environment will notice something different.”
“The state capital territory is not going to lose its beauty because of flood and the ‘Ekwueme’ of our time has answers to different difficult situations he promised and he is determined to fulfill his promise,” he said.

Selfless Service From Individuals Will Help Develop The Nation Says Gov. Okowa

Delta State Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has called on Nigerians to perform selfless service in order to promote development in the society.

The Governor who said this today (22/3/18) when the officials of the Pilgrim Baptist Association Issele-Uku Chapter paid him a courtesy visit stated that such service from individuals would not only help the state government but will promote positive living and foster peace and unity among the people.

According to him "It is the responsibility of the government to serve the people, we as government also need the support from well meaning individuals, the more private individuals partner with us, the more we will be able to provide more development for our people and working together will help us succeed as a state and as a nation”.

Governor Okowa emphasized the need to appreciate the efforts of persons who have selflessly served the people saying "I know there are Deltans who would like to serve the people aside government and we must find them to encourage them and to make their works known because it is the works that they have done that will spur others to follow their examples as we live in a society that believes that government alone should serve".

He continued "A lot of people live their lives in the service of people and most of them are forgotten and remembering those that came before us and served our society is something that we must all appreciate as it will encourage others who are living today to do their own part in serving the people" he explained.

Earlier, the Moderator, Rev. Eliezar Chibuogwu commended Governor Okowa for the developmental achievements and support for the church, assuring him that the association would continue to support and sustain peace in the state through the spread of the Word of God.

"PMAN, VERITABLE TOOL FOR PEACE, UNITY"-GOV. OKOWA

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has disclosed that the music industry was a veritable tool to ensure peace and security in the state .
Speaking during a courtesy call by the Executive Council members of the Performing Musician Association of Nigeria, (PMAN) Delta State Chapter led by its Chairman Evangelist Tebite Quincy in Asaba, Senator Okowa said insecurity has reduced because of the peace promoted among the youths through music

According to him" We must thank you for the effort You have been making to bring peace in the state through your music, this has helped in improving development in the state."

He noted that the unity experienced in the association has made PMAN stronger in the state and hope that the unity would be sustained among members to make the group functional.
The governor commended the association for the idea of advocating for a state musical fiesta annually stressing that " asking to contribute your quota to the development of our youths and the state through this fiesta is a good idea which my government will encourage."
Earlier, Evang. Tebite Quincy, commended Gov. Okowa for his developmental stride in the state and assured him of the association's continuous support.

FLOOD: Okowa Says, Govt. Needs more than N30 Billion to tackle flood Challenge

To control effects of flood water on Deltans, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has said the state government will spend more than N30 billion for construction of storm drains.
According to the Governor, the amount would take care of eight storm drainage channels including their discharge points.
The Governor made the disclosure today (21/03/18) in Asaba during the first quarterly interactive session with Journalists for the year, 2018.
“We have taken the bull by the horn as regards the flood control in the state; we wanted to be sure that we were on the right path, we did not just want to start constructing drains all over again without bringing solutions to the flood issues in Asaba so our consultants worked with the Nigerian Society of Engineers to provided us with eight options of drains,” he said.

“Storm drainages that we had to undertake as a state which was put at a total cost of a little above N30 Billion and out of the eight strategic network of Drains we chose to work with three as they were very critical and the total cost of the three is about N11 Billion.”
He continued, “the first one we started with was the one that is going to be within the area of DLA road through Jesus Saves road, the Agric Road area and that is the construction that is ongoing straight from that area through the Nnebisi road to the Amilimocha river and I think that the project has gone very far; we have been promised that the project will be delivered by the end of May this year and we are happy to announce that from my inspections, the project is going on very well and I am sure that a lot of us would have had the opportunity to see this construction and for those of us who may not have, I must appeal that for us to be able to do proper reporting, there is a need for us to visit projects to see what is on going.”
“There are two other projects, one of them is the drainage project that will take us through Ambassador Ralph Uwechie road to discharge to the Anwai stream and that project is already ongoing; the project was awarded about a month ago and work is ongoing and it will take 12 months to complete, so, we may not be getting all the relief within the Okpanam areas all through the rainy season but, it is our hope that before the next rainy season they would have completed the project so hopefully the project will be delivered by God's grace by the end of February 2019 and once it is completed it is going to drain the larger part of Okpanam while part of the water coming from Okpanam will be drained through the project that has a discharge point at the Iyi-Abi stream that is across the Asaba/Onitsha expressway and I am happy to announce that the company working on the Okpanam project has stepped up their pace of work; the third of the storm drainage projects is the one that is going to drain DBS area and the adjoining areas around the DBS and that project is a 12 month project and I hope that they all will be delivered on time because, the impact of the projects will only be fully felt in the year 2019 and it is my hope that we can reasonably go far enough before the rains sets in this year.”

Ogbonyeri distributes Delta State Health Insurance Cards to widows,praises Okowa

By Augustine Ekamagule

Many registered widows in Ika South local government today,at Agbor received their Delta State Health Insurance cards to enable them access free medical healthcare in the state.

Presenting the health insurance cards to the widows,the Co-ordinator and Special Assistant to the governor,on Women Mobilization,Mrs Cecelia Ogbonyeri said that the aim of the health insurance scheme is to enable Deltans get free medical access to state owned hospitals.She disclosed that one hundred and eighty-one cards were brought for Ika South registered widows drawn from the twelve wards in the local government and were distributed accordingly.While appealing to some of the registered widows who are yet to get their health insurance cards to be patient as they will be attended to soon,Ogbonyeri advised that the beneficiaries of the scheme should reciprocate by supporting and praying for the success of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in office.

Speaking further,Ogbonyeri showered praises on the state governor for making the health needs of Deltans a top priority.She listed other areas where Okowa has performed very well to include:road construction,education,agriculture,healthcare,job creation,youths and women empowerment.She expressed optimism that Deltans will be happy to re-elect Okowa in 2019.

Some of the widows who spoke with the press,appreciated Okowa for the privilege to access the state health insurance scheme.They also thanked the governor for the monthly stipends from the state government,even as they promised to remain grateful and committed to Okowa's success in office.

Traditional rulers pass vote of confidence in Okowa

The 63 traditional rulers in Anioma zone, under the Delta North Traditional Rulers’ Forum, have passed a vote of confidence in Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, commending his developmental strides in the state.

The rulers made the declaration at a reception in honour of the governor at the palace of the Obi of Owa, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor.

In an address by the Ogene of Ibedeni, Jonathan Kainegide, the rulers hinged their decision on the governor’s people-oriented programmes.

They said the programmes have translated to all-round development of Delta and improved the living standards of the people. They also expressed support for the creation of state police.

Earlier, the Chief Host and Chairman of the forum, Efeizomor, noted that the body was set up to promote unity and cooperation among the people of Delta North, adding that it has provided a veritable platform for the people to speak with one voice on issues of common interests.

Responding, Okowa thanked the rulers for their support, particularly in promoting peace.

Herdsmen take over Delta communities, demand payments from farmers

Fulani herdsmen have invaded and taken over three Delta communities in Ughelli North local government area, according to the State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Governor Okowa made this known when he played host to Police Assistant Inspector General (AIG) in charge of Zone 5.

“There is a particular community in Delta State, at a point in time, we discussed it at security council meeting and just yesterday (Thursday, 15/03/18) while I was in Ughelli North for my regular Town Hall meeting, the people raised a very serious issue about the Uwheru community.

“It is a very pathetic situation, because the President-General of the community spoke on the fact that out of their seven communities, three of them are actually occupied by the herdsmen and the farmers are told that they must pay the herdsmen before they can enter their farms and that is very disturbing.

“Because it is strange for indigenes to pay money before they can enter their farms and I believe something has to be done before it evolves into a crisis situation.

“This has been going on for several years but it has gotten worse of recent, so, AIG, this situation has to be addressed immediately as security issue,” Okowa said.

He, therefore, called on security agencies to curb activities of herdsmen in the state before it snowballs into crisis.

Okowa said his administration is concerned about the security of life and property of every Deltan and their communities, stressing that the Police and other security agencies must strive to protect the different communities in the state.

He lauded the synergy between security agencies in the state which has ensured a peaceful state that has become home for investors.

“As a people, we know that the more peaceful we are, the more investors will come into the state and in the course of this year, we will witness a lot of ground breaking ceremony as investors are coming to the state in their large numbers.

“We are doing a lot to provide infrastructure, we are doing a lot to engage our youths, the more youths we engage, the less idle minds we will have in the state,” the governor said.

He assured the AIG that his administration will continue to support security agencies in the state, saying, “Delta State is largely peaceful, we take matters of security serious, there is a lot of collaborations between different security agencies in Delta State and beyond.

“We take the issue of information gathering serious as we nip security challenges in the bud, we also, have state advisory and peace building council which is made up of experienced men and women of impeccable character, they also, help to maintain peace in the state.”

The AIG had earlier told the Governor that he was on a familiarisation tour of Police formations in the state, observing, “your administration has rendered uncountable support to the Police Command in different areas, your support has greatly, enhanced the performance of the Command and we want to thank you and assure you that the Police will ensure an all time peace in the state.”

TheNewsGuru reports AIG Rasheed Akintunde paid the governor a courtesy visit at the Government House Asaba on Friday.

A Fresh Mandate for Governor Okowa will put Delta on Sustainable Path says Ebinum.

Patriot Dantes Odogwu.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Special Duties, Contributory Health Commission and also the Director of Media and ICT Vote Okowa Again 2019, VOA said that the re-election of Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa in 2019 would put Delta on a sustainable path, with an economy built on human capital, not financial engineering.

Governor Okowa is diligent, responsible and has built a record of major accomplishments in the face of intense pressures, and fully deserves reelection. In fact, he is the key to a brighter future, he said.

He affirmed that reality checks show that Governor Okowa’s government has done tremendous job in the past three years and Deltans are satisfied with his development track record; therefore his re-election is guaranteed in 2019.

Ebinum asked Deltans not to pay much attention to the antics of opposition politicians whom he described as enemies of development because they cannot match what Okowa has achieved in terms of development.

He added that the opposition can never provide alternative leadership to what Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s government has been able to do for the past three years and exuded confidence of Okowa’s re-election for a second term in 2019.

Okowa Charges Security Agencies To Curb Activities Of Herdsmen in Delta

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has called on security agencies to curb activities of herdsmen in parts of the state before it snowballs into crisis.

The Governor made the call today (16/03/18), when the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) in charge of Zone 5, Mr Rasheed Akintunde paid him a courtesy visit at Asaba.

“There is a particular community in Delta State, at a point in time, we discussed it at security council meeting and just yesterday (Thursday, 15/03/18) while I was in Ughelli North for my regular Town Hall meeting, the people raised a very serious issue about the Uwheru community,

It is a very pathetic situation, because the President-General of the community spoke on the fact that out of their seven communities, three of them are actually occupied by the herdsmen and the farmers are told that they must pay the herdsmen before they can enter their farms and that is very disturbing because it is strange for indigenes to pay money before they can enter their farms and I believe something has to be done before it evolves into a crisis situation,” the Governor said.

He continued, “this has been going on for several years but it has gotten worse of recent, so, AIG, this situation has to be addressed immediately as security issue.”

The Governor told his guest that his administration is concerned about the security of life and property of every Deltan and their communities, stressing the Police and other security agencies must strive to protect the different communities in the state.

Governor Okowa lauded the synergy between security agencies in the state which has ensured a peaceful state that has become home for investors.

“As a people, we know that the more peaceful we are, the more investors will come into the state and in the course of this year, we will witness a lot of ground breaking ceremony as investors are coming to the state in their large numbers,” the Governor disclosed, asserting, “we are doing a lot to provide infrastructure, we are doing a lot to engage our youths, the more youths we engage, the less idle minds we will have in the state.”

Governor Okowa assured the AIG that his administration will continue to support security agencies in state, saying, “Delta State is largely peaceful, we take matters of security serious, there is a lot of collaborations between different security agencies in Delta State and beyond the collaborations, we take the issue of information gathering serious as we nip security challenges in the bud, we also, have state advisory and peace building council which is made up of experienced men and women of impeccable character, they also, help to maintain peace in the state.”

The AIG had told the Governor that he was on a familiarisation tour of Police formations in the state, observing, “your administration has rendered uncountable support to the Police Command in different areas, your support has greatly, enhanced the performance of the Command and we want to thank you and assure you that the Police will ensure an all time peace in the state.”

ETHIOPE FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY IS SAFE WITH IGBAKPA BECAUSE HE HAS A GOOD LEADERSHIP QUALITY.

It’s only natural that people expect a lot from their leaders. They always have. But today expectations run higher than ever, even as the challenges that confront leaders multiply. Effective leaders are now expected not to only achieve amazing results, but to sustain them. And often they’re expected to do so in a more competitive global environment, with a constant eye to shareholder value and strict regulations to adhere to.

Great leaders often demonstrate key “outer-core” competencies like effective decision-making, great communication skills, and the ability to effectively manage talent and help individual reach their goals. These impressive outer core competencies that the world sees are actually a result of more important “inner core” competencies such as character, self-image, thinking patterns, emotional make-up and level of optimism. A leader who is strong, vibrant and effective in the outer core is first strong, vibrant and effective in their inner core.

As the “Wheel of Intelligent Leadership” depicts, a leader’s inner core strength, vibrancy and maturity reflect directly in nine traits, each of which exists on a continuum ranging from “mature potential” to “immature potential.” Each trait and its relative maturity are translated into the outer core, meaning that mature leaders almost always have a stronger potential to exhibit the kinds of positive leadership behaviors that drive stronger team and business results.

Decision-Making and Intelligent Leadership

Uncertainty is difficult, and making big decisions can be nerve-wracking because we tend to second-guess ourselves. Instead, we try to avoid uncertainty by analyzing every possible angle of a situation instead of realizing that decisions must often be made in the face of uncertainty and risk. Some analysis is necessary in the decision-making process, but the intelligent leader knows (or at least has a good idea) whether the unknowns are actually important to the decision-making process. When an unknown isn’t important, the intelligent leader accepts the uncertainty and proceeds in the way he or she thinks is best.

Emotional Leadership

Intelligence and technical skills are basic necessities when it comes to effective leadership. The leaders that truly shine are the ones who also have emotional leadership and emotional intelligence. Emotional leadership allows a leader to recognize, resonate with and learn from their own mental states and others’. Emotional leadership requires keen self-awareness (but not self-centeredness), self-regulation, passion for what one is doing, empathy for others and excellent social skills. Some people are naturally more emotionally intelligent than others. However, emotional leadership cannot be mastered unless the inner core is strong, vibrant and mature.

Communication and Intelligent Leadership

All the technology tools in the world won’t help if a leader doesn’t have anything worthwhile to communicate. As with other personal characteristics, some people find communication easier than others do. However, to be a truly effective communicator, the intelligent leader speaks and listens. Great communication is as much about how something is said as it is about what is being said, and the intelligent leader is able to gauge the situation and know which tone or attitude is appropriate and learns from their mistakes.

Hon. Ben Rolland Igbakpa is a leader to learn from, a leader who has the people in mind. He has all the qualities you can think of, together we shall stand to it happen. Ethiope west and East, let’s make it real for this capacity leader.

#TheFutureIsBright#

A Fresh Mandate for Governor Okowa will put Delta on Sustainable Path says Ebinum.

Patriot Dantes Odogwu.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Special Duties, Contributory Health Commission and also the Director of Media and ICT Vote Okowa Again 2019, VOA said that the re-election of Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa in 2019 would put Delta on a sustainable path, with an economy built on human capital, not financial engineering.

Governor Okowa is diligent, responsible and has built a record of major accomplishments in the face of intense pressures, and fully deserves reelection. In fact, he is the key to a brighter future, he said.

He affirmed that reality checks show that Governor Okowa’s government has done tremendous job in the past three years and Deltans are satisfied with his development track record; therefore his re-election is guaranteed in 2019.

Ebinum asked Deltans not to pay much attention to the antics of opposition politicians whom he described as enemies of development because they cannot match what Okowa has achieved in terms of development.

He added that the opposition can never provide alternative leadership to what Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s government has been able to do for the past three years and exuded confidence of Okowa’s re-election for a second term in 2019.

Okowa Holds Town Hall Meetings In Bomadi, Ughelli
......Receives Commendation for Even Spread Of Devt .Projects
.... Advises Community Seeking Kingship To Follow Due Process

The ongoing efforts by Delta State Government to interface with deltans at the grassroots continued today [16-03-18] with the town hall meetings in Bomadi and Ughelli, as Governor Ifeanyi Okowa urged communities seeking to have kings to follow due process and avoid heating up the polity with their agitations.

The Governor who was commended by leaders and stakeholders for the even spread of infrastructural developmental projects in the state reeled out projects executed by his administration in the areas, emphasising that apart from the provision of infrastructure, the wealth creation programmes of his administration have received national and international recognition because of its success stories.

According to him, a lot of youths who were unemployed prior to his emergence as Governor have become entrepreneurs through the wealth creation programmes that are currently, receiving partnership with the United Nations.

He also, urged Deltans to key into the compulsory health insurance scheme of his administration, disclosing that it will save those who are in need of funds when they are ill the trauma of sourcing for funds.

Reacting to agitations for new kings in Bomadi, Governor Okowa urged communities seeking to have kings to follow due process and avoid heating up the polity with their agitations. asserting that “It is a long process to have a King, you must follow due process, it is not achievable through violence,”

The governor affirmed that the town hall meetings has afforded him the opportunity to see first hand the level of development in the state and the challenges facing the various areas, promising to utilise the 2018 and 2019 budgets to tackling the developmental needs facing the people.

On backlog of pensions, the Governor said, “the problem we are having with the pension scheme is called, past services, it is a huge amount of money, it runs into over N50 to N60 billion, what we are doing is to make money available on monthly basis, every month, we spend about N1.1 billion on pensions, I don’t know of any state that is paying as much apart from one state.”

Chairmen of Bomadi and Ughelli North local government areas, Hon. William Angadi and Hon. Godwin Adode respectively, including traditional rulers and representatives of different groups thanked Governor Okowa’s administration for the spread of projects across the state.

GOV OKOWA AND HIS KNACK FOR TOWN HALL MEETINGS AS A TOOL OF ACCOUNTABILITY OR STEWARDSHIP.

BY OLOMU ONYIYE

With his usual drive, candour and unflinching commitment to the electorate, Gov Okowa has once again begun another round of Town Hall Meetings.

In an earlier post, I had reiterated that everywhere, Town Hall Meetings serve primarily three interrelated purposes.

First,they are meant to serve as platforms for the leader to gather information on the peculiar needs of the electorate and how these needs come in the order of importance or priority.

At the second stage, they are to assess the progress made so far between the first stage and the current period and subsequently,to make necessary adjustments,additions or subtractions to those identified needs of the people.

At the third and last stage,the leader returns to the people with his report card for the people to examine in order to see whether same leader deserves another opportunity to serve them.

Whether there is likely to be another round of Town Hall Meetings following this one is not within my purview to say but obviously, Gov Okowa is already operating within the precinct of the third stage which is returning to the people with convincing evidences of his stewardship. Yes,his SMART Agenda has worked and is still working.

During the campaign period preceding the 2015 General Elections,it's on record that Gov Okowa chose to traverse the length and breadth of the State meeting with the people and gathering information and inputs that eventually gave birth to his SMART Agenda.

So then, the SMART Agenda can be said to be the sum total of Gov Okowa's contract or agreement with Deltans.

From the foregoing therefore, It is only fair that in terms of his overall performance, the Governor be judged by the stipulation or letters of the SMART document.

For days now,Gov Okowa has been going round meeting with communities and commissioning projects to the excitement, admiration and gratitude of the benefiting communities.

All of these have proven this point that equally resonates: inspite of the challenges that still confront Delta State in terms of shortfall in financial accruals from taxes, FAAC and sundry oil and non- oil sources, Gov Okowa has performed creditably well within the ambit of resources at his disposal.

Gladly too,the Governor has shown admirable wit and prudence by ensuring that almost all executed projects are offshoots of his agreement with the benefiting communities.

He has equally, as the indisputable Pan- Delta Governor he promised to be, ensured that this hale of capital, infrastructural and human development get to every nook and cranny of each of the Senatorial Districts.

In all, at the expiration of his tenure in office, it is certain from all indications and occurrences that not only shall Gov Okowa confidently go forth to the people with proof of more achievements,he is likely to also have almost all Deltans asking him to take another 4- year opportunity to serve them with perhaps, a SMARTER Agenda.

God bless Delta State.

Okowa Plus, Raising a New Generation of Entrepreneurs- Asiuwhu

Aware of the fact that government cannot engage everybody in the public service of the state, and the need for government to solve the daunting challenges of unemployment and underemployment, the Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa established the job creation office with a view towards creating sustainable wealth for deltans, especially the youths.

Mindful of similar interventions in the past and the inability of the previous schemes in meeting the yearnings of our people, Gov Okowa remodeled the job creation program to prepare our youths as entrepreneurs by securing their future as wealth creators and job creators instead of preparing them for employment as was the case in previous programmes.

Sustainable wealth creation has to do with providing youths with the requisite skills to become entrepreneurs. Interestingly, the government is not only providing the skills and setting up beneficiaries but it has gone a step further to mentor and provide support services for their business after they have completed their training through the Directorate of Youth Monitoring and Mentoring.

On the other hand agriculture remains the largest sector that can significantly improve the country's GDP and ensuring food availability and sufficiency for all, which will translate to creating employment opportunities for a greater number of people who will be involved in the agriculture value chain. The YAGEP component of the job creation program deals with agricultural development such as fisheries, livestock and crop production.

Government is providing an enabling environment for agriculture to thrive and attract investment in the sector by providing land and security. It is noteworthy to state that the oil economy itself does not impact strongly on the average Nigerian.

Though you make money out of it, it is an economy that does not create a lot of jobs. Over the years we have continued to rely on the oil economy and it made us lazy unable to explore alternative sources of revenue. We need to redirect our efforts, and ensure greater commitment towards diversifying the Nigerian economy, driven by agriculture and technology which Gov Okowa is committed to achieving with the states job creation programmes.

I want to charge beneficiaries of STEP and YAGEP to make good use of their training and empowerment in expanding the scope of their businesses and in turn create jobs for others.

Away from job creation, Okowa's economic management team has been able to manage the state's resources in such a manner as to meet certain obligations of government as well as prioritize government spending to meet the needs and aspirations of deltans. Effective financial management entails having value for money spent.

For this reason, the state government has a huge task of transforming the state to a modern city and enhance the quality of life and improve the quality of infrastructure in the state.

Okowa's Prosperity for all Deltans mantra is not a propaganda but a genuine commitment towards improving quality of infrastructure as well as improvements the living conditions of the people.

There is no doubting the fact that Okowa has the capacity to do more. He has proven this in no small way, by embarking on transformation projects as well as sustainable wealth creation programs which are visible for all to see. It is imperative that that we give him the maximum support for him to continue in office and develop our dear state because it is our collective responsibility to build the Delta of our dreams as we make progress on the positive side.