₦airaland Forum

DTSG Signs MoU To Fix another 25 Health Centres

As part of measures to continue to ensure quality healthcare delivery through the contributory health insurance scheme, Delta State government yesterday (14/01/19) signed a Memorandum of Understanding and an Renovate, Operate and Transfer agreement with a consortium of medical service providers under the aegis of Pharmaccess.

Governor Okowa at the event which took place in Asaba, disclosed that the MoU and the ROT were necessary as it will check rural/urban drift by people seeking for medical care, noting that with the agreements, medical facilities of international standards would be available at different rural localities of the state.

According to the governor who spoke through the Chairman, Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, "there are several health centres in different communities that have not been put to use, with this agreements, the private sector will take over the running of the centres, equip them to standards and ensure that they are operational 24 hours for our people who have enrolled in the contributory health insurance scheme."

The Director-General of the DSCHC, Dr Ben Nkechika, stated that, innovation which led to the signing of the agreement was very important "to achieve the desired milestone."

He noted that, with the agreements, the private sector will have access to funds at a single digit interest loan from the Bank of Industry to fix and run the abandoned health centres.

Dr Olamide Okulaja of Pharmaccess had said Access To Finance programme was very important to make funds available to the private sector that will partner the Delta State government in achieving quality and affordable healthcare for Deltans through the contributory health insurance scheme.

Chairman of Association of Local Government Of Nigeria, Delta State, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo commended Governor Okowa's administration for its commitment to providing affordable health care for Deltans, disclosing that the governor had earlier approved for renovation, 107 health centres across the state.
"We are direct beneficiaries of this project because, primary healthcare is the function of the local government," he said, assuring that all the local government chairman will work for the programme to succeed.

Come what may, Deltans will re-elect Governor Okowa.

Bayagbon Daniel

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who Constructed over 357 Roads across the State within 4 Years?

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who made over 21,000 Deltans including Persons with disabilities employers of Labour through the STEP and YAGEP Programme ?

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who rehabilitated Six Technical Colleges across the three Senatorial Districts in Delta State?

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who renovated/constructed over 4,750 Classrooms across Delta State?

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who put Delta State in the Spotlight, making the State a Cynosure in Nigeria, in terms Sports?

Why Wouldn't Deltans reelect a man who made Delta State rank No 1 in Nigeria in Human Capital Development?

Come what may, Deltans will vote massively for Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

#For_A #Stronger_Delta

2019 Governorship Elections: Shimite Bello Takes Campaign to Professionals, Artisans

By Akpovoke Otiti

Delta State Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency Director , Mrs Shimite Bello has joined her colleagues on the field to campaign for His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

Mrs Bello who is also canvassing support for all People’s Democratic Party, PDP candidates in the forthcoming general elections in Delta State, has also carried out the initiative under the name, Okowa reelection bid come March. She said that the campaign will go beyond Delta State., ” my support for Sen. Dr. Okowa and all PDP, candidates is born out of desire, commitment ,development for Okowa administration over the years.

According to her statement to aljaziralreporters that the initiative is an operational political structure committed to the propagation of the Okowa administration’s achievements in the last four years. ” it is geared towards encouraging participation in the electoral system in all the wards and units of Delta State.

The Director of the Agency, Mrs Bello further stated that the initiative is a self-funded project to complement the party`s campaign structure in Delta.

The statement revealed that Mrs Shimite Bello is billed to meet with clergy men , community leaders, professionals in all the major sectors who are key components of the Delta economy and registered associations of artisans within Delta State.

“The aim of the initiative is to motivate and persuade them on the need to return Okowa back to office and all other PDP, candidates in their respective Constituencies so as to complete the restoration agenda which he has kick started in 2015 in all facets of Delta, Micro small and medium enterprise , Smart Agenda and prosperity for all Deltans continuity is our major focus.

OkowaPlus Vol. 1

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From His Excellency

The debut of this Newsletter is another significant development in our Job and Wealth Creation Scheme. In the six months that the Scheme has been in operation, we have witnessed remarkable progress in our unrelenting quest to fulfil our campaign promise of prosperity for all Deltans.

It is gratifying that the coming of this Newsletter coincides with the passing-out activities/ceremony of the first set of the first batch of trainees under the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) and the Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP).

As with all other mass communication vehicles, I expect this Newsletter to perform the traditional roles of information, education and agenda setting. Through this medium, Deltans should be properly and adequately informed of the policies, activities and programmes of the Job and Wealth Creation Scheme to enable them understand it better and make informed commentaries/choices.

I also look forward to comments from beneficiaries even after they have started their enterprises, and suggestions as to how we can improve and expand the coverage of the Job and Wealth Creation Scheme.

Finally, I commend the Office of the Chief Job Creation Officer for this maiden edition, which is quite informative and meets the highest production quality.

I wish our YAGEPreneurs and STEPreneurs success and great accomplishments in life.

Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa

Governor, Delta State

AMP laud Clark, Gbagi, Oritsejafor for backing Okowa

The Anioma Media Professionals (AMP) has commended Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri leaders for their public support for equity in Delta State through their endorsement of a second term for Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in this year’s general elections.
AMP believes such stance would engender peace, unity and development in the state and giver all ethnic nationalities and sections a sense of belonging.Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark; prominent Urhobo politician and former Minister of State for Education, Chief Kenneth Gbagi and Itsekiri leader, Chief Roland Oritsejafor, had, at different fora, expressed support for the governor’s second term bid.

In a statement signed by its spokesman, Mr. Ken Ugbechie, AMP, said with such statements from prominent sons of the state from different ethnic group, it was obvious that Okowa, as a political bridge builder, has the support of all the ethnic nationalities in the state.
While Clark said: “Delta Central Senatorial District has had the governorship through Chief James Ibori, for eight years. Delta South had it for eight years through Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan. It is the turn of Delta North to have it for eight years through Okowa,” Gbagi noted that: “The greatest mistake APC made and to the advantage of Okowa is to have nominated a non-Anioma for 2019 governorship… what I am saying in effect is that we cannot alter the issue of Delta State, the state is bigger than anybody. Together we will stand up for the peace and success of the state as opposed to an individual.”

Oritsejafor, a respected Itsekiri leader added his voice: “Delta State can only move forward and maintain peaceful co- existence with the re-election of a governor of Anioma origin in 2019. Okowa fits the position as an illustrious governor with vision.”
Ugbechie stated that the positions of the three eminent Deltans was consistent with the stance of AMP that what is sauce for the goose is also sauce for the gander; hence the need to re-elect Okowa for a second time to complete the circle across the three senatorial districts of the state.He urged well-meaning Deltans to be wary of those struggling to disorganise the tripodal arrangement of power rotation among the three senatorial districts of the state, saying sticking to the working formula would save the state from political tension and agitation of the past.

REMEMBRANCE DAY: Okowa Challenges Nigerians To Assist Families Of Fallen Soldiers

AS Nigerians remember soldiers who lost their lives defending the country, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has challenged them to assist the families of the deceased soldiers

The governor made the call today (13/01/19) at an interdenominational thanksgiving service held at Divine Way Baptist Church, Asaba as part of activities to mark the 2019 Armed Forces remembrance day celebration.

According to Governor Okowa, “a lot of soldiers have given their lives for the sake of our country; many are still fighting and, as we remember the fallen heroes, we should talk about them, pray for them, pray for those who are still in service and extend hand of fellowship to their families.”

“Don’t just pray for the fallen heroes, assist the families they left behind,” the governor emphasised, adding, “they have families they left behind, we must be compassionate to them and to those around us.”

He continued, “as government there is still much that can be done through legislation beyond setting a day aside to mark the event, we need to care for the families of the fallen heroes; all the persons who lost their lives in the line of duty should be remembered and when you see their families, offer help.”

“If we know that there is death on the road, most of us will not pass through the road, but, that is what the security men do, they will move to make the road safe; there is a lot of criminality in the land and we also know there is a lot of hunger in the land; we must continue to pray for our country and as we remember our fallen heroes, Let us not be tired of doing good,” Governor Okowa said at the well attended service.

Rev. Paul Anyasi had in a sermon, spoke on the topic, ‘Let Kindness Speak,’ observing that Nigeria will be a better place when the people are committed to doing the right things.

While observing that corrupt tendencies have eaten into every sector of human endeavour in the country, Rev. Anyasi admonished Nigerians “to care for one another for a sustainable society to be achieved; the nation is suffering because, we support oppression.”

“We tend to keep quiet when we see people engaging in wrong doing,” he said, asserting, “let us do the right thing because, when we do the right thing, we will have good nation; if God gives you an opportunity, it is for you to save life.”

He continued, “this is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who lost their lives for us to have peace, this is an opportunity to also, say thank you to the good security men in the country who are making sacrifices for us to have peace.”

Prayers were offered by an array of clergymen for the nation, the state, government officials, security operatives, members of families deceased soldiers, among others.

THE NAME ‘OWA’ IS SYMBOLIC- ‘OKOWA WINS AGAIN’

BY CHRIS ODIA

The power in a name cannot be overemphasized. History is replete on how individuals, families and on some occasions, communities, suddenly reach unanimous decisions to change a name that they had borne over the years.

On numerous occasions, the reason for such action is due to the belief that such name could have being a source of ‘bad luck’ to the bearers.

These actions are therefore suggestive of the fact that while a bad name may be associated with evil outcomes, a good name on the other hand would easily bring ‘good luck’ to the bearers.

While on a visit to the executive Governor of Delta State, H.E. Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa during the yuletide, a young lad, Daniel Dantes Odogwu, drew the attention of the Governor to ‘OWA’, His Excellency’s country home, as an acronym for his reelection as Governor of Delta State.

Surprising! Majority would say. Yeah, really surprising for such insight about what has been with us to have come from a lad who just came visiting.

The surprise would be more highlighted for the fact that the lad never had any inkling about a possible political chat with the Governor while on his way to the Governor’s residence.

In his characteristic way, Gov. Okowa, obviously overwhelmed by such prophetic adulation from a minor, was filled with ecstasy. The lad on his part, appearing to be propelled by divine beings, continued explaining to the Governor, like a lecturer would do, while introducing a new course.

The fact that such prediction is coming at a period of political transition gives more reason for the prophecy to be tenaciously held onto and further re-echoed, among the teeming masses that are in support of the Governor’s quest, all over the State.

One may want to postulate that nature and history could have pryed their eyes into the present generation to aver that Governor Okowa’s re-election is already cast in stone. Another angle of reasoning could be that God almighty, who knows and understands Times and Seasons, had preempted the Governor’s reelection by initiating the name ‘Owa’ and revealing it to a lad at a time like this.

Whatever postulations that you decide to agree with, the fact is that Governor Okowa’s reelection is a ‘Done Deal’ not just because of his democratic deliveries so far but the fact that the name of his hometown has prophetically, declared him the Governor of the State for another tenure.

Ekwueme 2019! Done Deal!

SECURITY: Okowa Calls For Sharing Of Information Among Security Agencies
... As Nigerian Army Inaugurates 63 Brigade In Asaba

THE 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army was inaugurated TODAY (10/02/19) in Asaba with Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa stating that sharing of information among security agencies is very vital to addressing security challenges in the country.
The governor who spoke at the inaguration ceremony, observed that the country will be more secured when proactive measures are taken with the aid of timely sharing of information by security agencies.
He said, "I congratulate the Nigerian Army for setting up the 63 Brigade; Delta State is a peaceful state, but, we welcome actions that will consolidate on the existing peace."
"Sharing of information among security agencies will have a lot of impact on checking security challenges in the country; security agencies have done a lot for us to have peace and secure oil facilities in our state, but, I must appreciate the roles played by our traditional rulers and stakeholders who also, assisted us in achieving peace," Governor Okowa said.
He continued, "with the coming of the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, we will have more men to secure our state, we will continue to assist in whatever ways we can for you to carry out your functions,"
The Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai represented by the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamil Sarham said the establishment of the 63 Brigade was neccessary for the continual protection of the nation's interest stating that Operation Python Dance III will take place in the state.
He commended the Delta State Government for providing temporary takeoff for the Brigade.

Isoko Traditional Rulers, P-Gs Adopt Okowa As Governorship Candidate

IN a rare show of love and solidarity, all the traditional rulers of Isoko ethnic nationalities and their President-Generals have endorsed Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as their candidate for the 2019 governorship elections.

At an emergency national conference of Isoko nation convened by the Isoko Development Union (IDU) held at Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State, the traditional rulers observed that the only way they could reciprocate Governor Okowa's good governance in Isoko land is to re-elect him to continue with his good works.

The Ovie of Oleh Kingdom, Omagha I, HRM Anthony Ovrawah, who is the Chairman of Isoko Traditional Rulers Council led more than 19 traditional rulers to pray for the governor, assuring that all Isoko sons and daughters will cast their votes for him.

Earlier, the President-General of Iyede Kingdom, Chief Jerry Okokowa moved the motion for Isoko people to collectively, cast their votes for the return of Governor Okowa to Government House, Asaba till 2023, stating, "we have no other option than Governor Okowa, he has executed a lot of projects in Isoko land including the construction of this edifice, the Isoko house and he will do more for us in the next four years."
The President-General of Oleh Kingdom, Chief Believe Alakri seconded the motion.

Governor Okowa, filled with emotions, thanked the Isoko people for the love they have shown to him and his administration, stating, "I am surprised, I am excited at what you have done this afternoon; It is a great honour that you have done to me and I must thank the Isoko people for the love you have for me and my administration; what is happening here today, convinces me that you have accepted me as one of you; it tells a lot of story that you are not ashamed to identify with me; I thank you for the peace you have continued to give to us as a government which has given us the enabling environment to carry out development projects."

"Thank you for the partnership which will make me to relate more with the Isoko nation; in the next four years, a lot more will be done for the Isoko nation because, the Isoko people truly deserve it," he said, adding, "with the pronouncement of the traditional rulers, this is a total support, which will give me more votes than what you gave us in 2015."

The governor in an emotion-laden voice, pleaded with the traditional rulers and the president-generals to vote for all the candidates of the PDP, especially, for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for President, Senator James Manager and Hon. Leo Ogor, saying, "since you have shown love to me, show love to other candidates of the PDP because, the success of the PDP in the February 16 elections will make the March 2 elections easier."

President of IDU, Chief Iduh Amadhe, said, "what is happening in Isoko has never been done for any man, Isoko people are not psychophants but, when we heard that you (Governor Okowa) are coming to Isoko nation for campaign rally, an emergency national conference was called for you; 19 traditional rulers are here, the president-generals of different kingdoms are here and whatever we have done today will be translated to all the villages in Isoko and It will be respected, you will get the votes of Isoko people."

The governor was accompanied to the meeting by his wife, Dame Edith and notable politicians in the state.

Senator Okowa shuts down Effurun in style with mammoth crowd in continuation of the general elections' campaign in Uvwie local government. Every where Okowa went the people have Testified that he is an achiever.

Ozoro, Set To Host PDP Rally

The campaign train of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in Delta State will on Thursday January 10, 2019 be at Ozoro to tell the people of the area why they should vote for the candidates of the party in the forthcoming general elections.

According to a statement signed by Mr Nelson Egware, Director, Media and Publicity of the Isoko North Local Government PDP Campaign Committee, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, will personally lead the campaign train to Ekwerigbe Primary School Ozoro, venue of the campaign rally billed to commence at 2pm.

Mr Egware stated that leaders of the party in the area have mobilised the people of Isoko North local government area to actively participate in the rally.
"Isoko North is home to the PDP and market women, opinion moulders, people from all walks of life are expected to be in the rally, not because of politics, but, because, the Isokos are in love with Governor Okowa, they will be there to show their solidarity with the governor who will lead the state till 2023," Egware said.

He continued, "Governor Okowa has made the work of members of the PDP easy as we approach the elections, the people are already applauding his good works, he is a household name in Isoko and the situation is such that everybody identifies with the PDP."
"The rally, though significant for a platform for the governor to say what he has been doing to uplift the standards of living of Deltans, we know the voting will be PDP all the way from Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Governor Okowa, Senator James Manager, Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor, and Hon. Tim Owhefere, they have credibility, track records of performance that will make the people vote for them," Mr Egware stated.

Okowa Inspects Multi-Billion Naira Effurun-Otor/Ovwor Bridge

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has described the multi-billion naira Effurun-Otor/Ovwor Bridge as very vital as it will meet the yearnings of the people to have access roads to their communities.
Governor Okowa who paid an inspection visit to the site of the bridge constrction (08/01/19) expressed satisfaction that the contractor was delivering the project to specifications and on schedule. The people of the impacted communities in Ughelli South local government area virtually turned the inspection visit to campaign rally as they rolled out drums, singing and justifying why Governor Okowa should be returned unopposed in his re-election bid.

In a brief interview, Governor Okowa recalled, “there was a time we came to inspect the road project and the people sent a delegation drawing our attention to the river which they must cross with canoe to meet their kits and kin; we looked at their plight and it is a thing of joy that we made the right decision; my joy is that the people are happy with what we are doing.”

“When we make promises, we try as much as possible, relying on God to keep the promise; no part of Delta State should be deprived of basic amenities, no matter who is involved that is why we are constructing roads in the creeks, very soon, we shall be commissioning more projects in the riverine communities,” he said, adding, “from what we can see, the bridge is 80 per cent completed and the contractor has promised to complete in February, which is the major work as the access roads can only be constructed once the bridge is ready.”

Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye disclosed that the bridge and road projects would cost more than N2 billion, stating, “I am proud to be part of this government, our Governor, Senator Okowa is committed, very passionate about road construction, he believes the communities in the state should be linked by road because of the socio-economic benefits of having good roads.”

Those who spoke at the project site, excitedly said, “Governor Okowa, the road master is God sent, he has given us road, vehicles can now get to our communities, we believe those who are contesting against him will step down, because, it is the turn of Delta North to complete two terms and we are comfortable with Dr Okowa as our Governor.

2019 ELECTIONS: Okowa Challenges Media To Hold All Stakeholders Accountable

... Receives Nomination For Independent Man Of The Year Award

AS count down to the general elections continues, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has challenged the media to guarantee sustainable democracy by partnering with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible elections that will be acceptable to Nigerians.
The governor gave the challenge today (08/01/19) in Asaba when the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of Independent Newspapers Limited, Mr Ade Ogidan presented a letter of nomination as the newspaper's "Governor of the year, 2018 award" to the governor.
According to the governor, "this is the right time for the press to be the voice of Nigeria, the voice of the people and guarantee a sustainable democracy which is important for our nation to be reckoned with In the comity of nations; it is my hope that the press will partner with INEC and ensure a free, fair, credible elections that will be acceptable by the people and boost the confidence of the international community.
The governor described the award as a recognition of what his administration was doing in conjunction with Deltans to make the state better.
"It is a thing of joy that you have found me worthy to receive the Governor of the Year, 2018 award; it is not just an award for me because, whatever that we are doing, it is in partnership with our people; it is not just possible for us to excel without the people, we had town hall meetings and at different interractive sessions, they tell us about their needs and with the members of the executive council, we set out to deliver the needs of the people," Governor Okowa said, adding, "we thank Deltans for their cooperation and partnership for the past three years plus, looking back at the successes we have recorded, we need to give the glory to God."
The governor who described Deltans as wonderful, accommodating people to work with, disclosed that several roads have been constructed by his administration, including in the difficult terrain of the creeks because of the cooperation of the people.
He added that more than 400, 000 persons have enrolled in the contributory health insurance scheme despite the fact that it was a novel programme in the country.
"We are doing a lot and our people are cooperating with us, we thank God for what we have been able to achieve as a state and as a government, we will continue to partner with the media in delivering on electoral promises," Governor Okowa said at the occasion which was witnessed by members of the state executive council.
Mr Ogidan had said Governor Okowa was nominated for the award because of the delivery of good governance by his administration which has impacted Inn the state and the nation.

*PRESS STATEMENT*

08th January, 2019

OGBORU IS AN ARTFUL DODGER WHO HAS NOTHING TO OFFER DELTANS – PDP Campaign Organization

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Campaign Organization has reacted sharply to the decision by the factional All Progressives Congress, APC Governorship Candidate, Chief Great Ogboru, to dodge the invitation to a public debate by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, describing his excuses as a lame, pathetic and cowardly retreat.

In a press statement issued and signed by the Director of Publicity, Delta State PDP Campaign Organization, Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, the party described Ogboru as a serial contestant with nothing to offer Deltans.

The press statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to comments by a factional Governorship candidate of the Delta State All Progressives Congress, Chief Great Ogboru declining Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s challenge to all governorship candidates in the State to a public debate.

Chief Ogboru, while evading the sincere and sportsmanlike call for a debate, once again displayed his penchant for lies and deception by accusing Governor Okowa of avoiding the 2015 Governorship debate. To set the record straight, the Delta State PDP Campaign Organization wishes to inform the general public that the Okowa campaign organization in 2015 had, in a press release which was widely circulated then, stated that then Senator Okowa would not be participating in the debate referred to. This was based on the fact that the PDP had instituted a court process asking the court to disqualify the Labour Party, LP and All Progressives Congress, APC candidates from contesting the 2015 Delta State Gubernatorial elections on the grounds that the manner of their emergence had violated section 85 (I) of the Electoral law (as amended), which states ‘that a political party shall give the commission (INEC) at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress etc., for electing members of its executive committees or nominating candidates for any of the elective offices.”

It is on record that our campaign organization’s spokesman at that time, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, who is now the Director General of Okowa 2019 campaign, explained that Okowa would have loved to be part of that debate, but that doing so while the case was in court would amount to undermining the leadership of his party while giving legitimacy to the candidacy of Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the APC and Chief Great Ogboru of the then Labour Party to contest the Delta 2015 governorship election.

It is also on record that Chief Ogboru himself did not participate in the said debate, which took place on March 24, 2015. By declining Governor Okowa’s call for a public debate this time around, Chief Ogboru is simply living up to his reputation as an artful dodger so it is disingenuous for him to lay any accusations against Governor Okowa. His claim that he is an issues-based politician has been debunked by the very fact that he has declined to participate in a platform where issues would be discussed.

The fact is that Chief Great Ogboru and his co-travellers in the factious APC are intimidated by the record achievements of Governor Okowa who has just been voted MAN OF THE YEAR through a public poll independently conducted by Silverbird Television. Our multiple award-winning Governor has endeared himself to Nigerians, particularly Deltans, with his monumental achievements in road and physical infrastructure, human capital development and his enviable credentials as an exemplary democrat.

“Finally, that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has kept his promise to Deltans is there for all to see, except to those blinded by selfish ambition, mindless greed and ethnic bigotry. We are confident that Deltans will reward him with a huge mandate to consolidate on the achievements of the last four years to build a stronger Delta founded on prosperity, peace and progress.”

God Bless Delta State!

Long Live PDP!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
Director of Publicity,
Delta State PDP Campaign Organization

*PRESS STATEMENT*

08th January, 2019

OGBORU IS AN ARTFUL DODGER WHO HAS NOTHING TO OFFER DELTANS – PDP Campaign Organization

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Campaign Organization has reacted sharply to the decision by the factional All Progressives Congress, APC Governorship Candidate, Chief Great Ogboru, to dodge the invitation to a public debate by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, describing his excuses as a lame, pathetic and cowardly retreat.

In a press statement issued and signed by the Director of Publicity, Delta State PDP Campaign Organization, Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, the party described Ogboru as a serial contestant with nothing to offer Deltans.

The press statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to comments by a factional Governorship candidate of the Delta State All Progressives Congress, Chief Great Ogboru declining Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s challenge to all governorship candidates in the State to a public debate.

Chief Ogboru, while evading the sincere and sportsmanlike call for a debate, once again displayed his penchant for lies and deception by accusing Governor Okowa of avoiding the 2015 Governorship debate. To set the record straight, the Delta State PDP Campaign Organization wishes to inform the general public that the Okowa campaign organization in 2015 had, in a press release which was widely circulated then, stated that then Senator Okowa would not be participating in the debate referred to. This was based on the fact that the PDP had instituted a court process asking the court to disqualify the Labour Party, LP and All Progressives Congress, APC candidates from contesting the 2015 Delta State Gubernatorial elections on the grounds that the manner of their emergence had violated section 85 (I) of the Electoral law (as amended), which states ‘that a political party shall give the commission (INEC) at least 21 days’ notice of any convention, congress etc., for electing members of its executive committees or nominating candidates for any of the elective offices.”

It is on record that our campaign organization’s spokesman at that time, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, who is now the Director General of Okowa 2019 campaign, explained that Okowa would have loved to be part of that debate, but that doing so while the case was in court would amount to undermining the leadership of his party while giving legitimacy to the candidacy of Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the APC and Chief Great Ogboru of the then Labour Party to contest the Delta 2015 governorship election.

It is also on record that Chief Ogboru himself did not participate in the said debate, which took place on March 24, 2015. By declining Governor Okowa’s call for a public debate this time around, Chief Ogboru is simply living up to his reputation as an artful dodger so it is disingenuous for him to lay any accusations against Governor Okowa. His claim that he is an issues-based politician has been debunked by the very fact that he has declined to participate in a platform where issues would be discussed.

The fact is that Chief Great Ogboru and his co-travellers in the factious APC are intimidated by the record achievements of Governor Okowa who has just been voted MAN OF THE YEAR through a public poll independently conducted by Silverbird Television. Our multiple award-winning Governor has endeared himself to Nigerians, particularly Deltans, with his monumental achievements in road and physical infrastructure, human capital development and his enviable credentials as an exemplary democrat.

“Finally, that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has kept his promise to Deltans is there for all to see, except to those blinded by selfish ambition, mindless greed and ethnic bigotry. We are confident that Deltans will reward him with a huge mandate to consolidate on the achievements of the last four years to build a stronger Delta founded on prosperity, peace and progress.”

God Bless Delta State!

Long Live PDP!!

Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
Director of Publicity,
Delta State PDP Campaign Organization

Okowa WINS 2018 SILVERBIRD MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

…Urges INEC, Security Agencies To Ensure Free, Fair 2019 Elections

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has won the 2018 Silverbird Man OF Year Award, with a charge to security agencies and Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] to play by the rules and ensure free, fair and transparent 2019 elections.

Speaking today[07-01-19] in Asaba, when the management of the Silverbird Communications Ltd led by Mr. Jacob Akinyemi Johnson, Chairman, Editorial Board, paid him a courtesy visit to present the letter of nomination, Senator Okowa said that the award would spur the people of the state to work in unity and achieve more developmental successes.

“Nigerians expect that we will have free and fair national elections in February and March, 2019, and the security agencies and INEC are expected to play by the rules so that we can have a country where democracy can grow and a country that can take its place among the comity of nations”, the governor said, adding “ the world looks up to us to get it right”.

“I receive this award with gratitude as it will encourage us to do more for our people. In the last three years, we have had our challenges, but we have been able to manage ourselves, united as deltans, we have connected with our people through roads, education and health. Our people are happy with us and we are happy with them”, he said.

The governor commended the Silverbird Management for the painstaking award process stressing “the award will encourage our people to understand that the more we work together, the more successes we will achieve”.

Earlier, Mr. Akinyemi-Johnson has congratulated Governor Okowa for emerging the “2019 Silverbird Man Of The Year” stating that the governor was voted overwhelmingly by the public among the four nominees.

He informed Senator Okowa that the formal presentation would take place February 3, 2019 in Lagos.

IN THIS PERIOD OF GUBER CAMPAIGNS, WHERE NOW IS DELTA APC?

OLOMU ONYIYE.

Why does it appear currently as if Gov Okowa is the only visible Guber contestant on the political landscape of Delta State? Where in the expansive political horizon is the serial guber veteran -Chief Ogboru?

Like other Deltans, I am still curious why the Delta APC ain't campaigning for an Election that they've always boasted of winning landslide. Judging from hindsight,we may wish to remind them that we vividly recall that this same behavioural pattern was their showing at the LG Election held some few months back.

Well, since the APC is unarguably the main Opposition Party in the State, folks like me are concerned enough to speculate as to why they are still looking askance and disconcerted barely a Month to the Elections.

First, they seem to have fatally gone beyond the brinks and unwittingly destabilised their ranks by their violation or desecration of the zoning formula.

Except it is petrol and not blood that runs in the veins of the Ocheis, Utomis, and their followers, campaigning for a late entrant and impostor who could blatantly defy the general consensus of Deltans for equity, fairness and good brotherliness deployed via the Guber seat is definitely a hard task.

Chief Ogboru may have been very smart in his connivance with Oshiomhole, but he definitely did not fool Deltans. To his chagrin,he must have discovered that he is now generally perceived as a wrong product placed on display at the wrong time.

Second, I could speculate that the Delta APC might be relying on some Federal might as assurance for victory at the upcoming Guber polls. Afterall, a certain Party Chairman has once boasted in his usual impudence of taking over Delta in order to ' humble ' or humiliate Gov Okowa.

Delta APC is however forgetting that this is a General Election and that it is therefore laughable to imagine that Oshiomhole' s shenanigans in Osun and Ekiti States can successfully get re-enacted in Delta State without any forceful resistance from the electorate who are convincingly determined to choose their leaders via their PVC.

Hence, one thing is quite very certain: Oshiomhole will be meeting his match in the Delta Electorate not so political pliant or bendable as their Osun and Ekiti compatriots. Perhaps, he should be advised to get ready for a people determined to defend their votes with every ounce of their blood.

Third, I safely presume that the laudable achievements of Gov Okowa may have equally put the mouths of the Delta APC spin doctors in the cooler of self- induced silence.

If in 2015, it was said and accepted that Gov Okowa won the hearts of Deltans by virtue of his enviable pedigree as LGA Secretary / Chairman, Commissioner and distinguished Senator, then his achievements in office as Governor are compelling enough to engrave him in the hearts of Deltans as the darling and toast in this Election.

With an enviable potpourri of achievements that include over 357 state-of- art roads(spanning over 1,056/15km + 352.78 km of drains), revamped and fully-equipped Tertiary, Technical, Secondary and Primary Schools across the Three Senatorial Districts,the SMART Agenda Initiatives like YAGEP, and STEP that have economically empowered thousands of enterprising youths, Agricultural Initiatives and other novel policies that have won Gov Okowa accolades both Internationally, locally and across party lines, it becomes plausible to ask where the place for an untested opponent enmeshed in irreconcilable controversies of betrayal, disloyalty and 'kurukere' movements even in his own party should now be?

Indeed, I am somewhat still at a loss as to the best way to reiterate this one fact to Chief Ogboru and his thinning followers: that it is incontrovertible that candidates MUST FIRST win Elections in the hearts of the Electorate;that later on, they can receive their validation at the polls.

My Re-Election Will Be For Sustenance Of Peace, Devt, Equity - Okowa
... Challenges Opposition To Engage In Campaign

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said his re-election will be premised on sustenance of peace, development and equity in line with rotation of political offices in the state.

Governor Okowa made the disclosure today (05/01/19) at the campaigns of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Koko and Sapele, Warri North and Sapele local government areas of Delta State respectuvely.
At the two local government areas visited, Governor Okowa expressed confidence that his administration has delivered on the promises made during the 2015 campaign, stating that the next four years of his tenure as Governor will be better.

"I thank the people for the large turnout for the rally; the people of Warri North are always reliable, great followers, members of the PDP; I am here to tell you that I am going for second term; we have done a lot of projects; during the administration of our Leader, Chief James Ibori, we worked for him for two terms, in the last administration, I was the Director-General of the Campaign, as a government, we have executed a lot of projects, we enjoy peace in our state and if we take the line of equity, we will complete two terms, " Governor Okowa said at Koko.

At Sapele, the governor called on opponents to engage in campaigns and tell the people what they can do rather than holding nocturnal meetings and be scheming on how to snatch ballot boxes and engage in electoral malpractice.
"We promised to dualise the road, it has been done and will be commissioned soon, we promised to complete the market, it has been commissioned, the Sapele technical college has been revamped and in the next four years, we will do more," the governor said, asserting, "our opponents will not campaign, they will be at home planning bad things, but, they will not succeed, we will get unprecedented number of votes in Sapele and all over the state; the opposition should come out and campaign, they should not be planning on how to disrupt the elections."
Those who spoke at campaign grounds include Deputy Governor Burutu Otuaro, Dr Isaac Wilkie, Comrade Olumami Oyibo, Chief Solomon Areyenka, Chief Charles Obule, Hon. Joyce Overah, among others, expressed confidence that the PDP will get the votes from the people.
Chairman of the PDP in the state, Barr. Kingsley Esiso presented candidates for different electoral positions to the people.

ELECTIONS: Okowa Will Lead PDP Candidates To Victory - Ibori

..as large crowd throngs Oghara township stadium to flag off PDP Governorship campaign

FORMER Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori has warned against crisis during the 2019 general elections, expressing confidence that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa will lead all the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to victory.

Chief Ibori gave the warning today (04/01/2019) at the flag off of campaign of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Oghara, Ethiope West local government area of Delta State.

According to Chief Ibori, "please, in the name of God, don't come to Delta State to cause trouble; this is democracy, you tell the people what you will do, sell your programmes to the people."

"Anybody that is planning anything that is bad for our state, God will not allow it," the former Governor asserted.

He continued amidst tgunderous applause from members of the PDP who literarilly took over all available space in the Oghara Township Stadium, "the re-election of Governor Okowa is our challenge; I have no question in my mind that you (Governor Okowa) has done very well, I can say that without equivocation, you have done exceedingly well."

Chief Ibori stated that Governor Okowa is "competent, capable, knowledgeable and have the capacity to govern the state for another four years; you (Governor Okowa) deserve another term, I am indeed very pleased with you, your achievements."

"In your first tenure, you launched your campaign in Oghara and today, you are here to launch your campaign, it means you know your history and as the head of this political family, I declare and decree that you have all it takes to lead this battle, for all the candidates of our party to win in the election, God will continue to guide you, you have humbled yourself, God will uplift you," Chief Ibori added.

The former Governor noted that the peace of the state was very paramount and as such, the Governor Okowa should be allowed to complete second term in office in line with rotation of power that exists in the state.

He said, "we should allow the Anioma people to complete two terms, it is the turn of the Anioma people, don't let them to deceive you, as you go into the field, be peaceful, we are peaceful people, sell your programmes to the people."

Okowa Expresses Confidence About PDP Victories At Polls

... As Campaign Council Holds Vigil Ahead Of Campaign Flag Off

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed confidence that God will grant candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) victory in the general elections billed to hold in the months of February and March.
Speaking at a vigil service to dedicate the PDP campaign for 2019 general elections to God , Governor Okowa stated, "because we have put our God first, we have no need to be scared going into the campaign or scared of the elections, God is leading us into the battle, we will have victory." The vigil was held at the Government House Chapel, Asaba yesterday (02/01/19).
"As a people and as a party, there is no doubt that we have been working hard these three and half years to deliver democratic dividends to our people, but, it is significant that we come to the presence of God today to seek Him," Governor Okowa said, asserting, "it is going to be the battle of the spirits and our God will prevail; our opponents that are relying on small gods will fail, Delta State can never return back to Satan, be strong and of good courage, go into the campaign praying together, go out with one mind trusting in God our Lord and victory will be ours."
He continued, "we are not going into the campaign to cast aspersion on others, we are going there to tell the people what we have achieved and we have achieved a lot to campaign with."
"We should think about PDP realising that we are one family because, once we have that in mind, we will excel; don't be afraid because, every power is subject to the power of the Almighty God and we have God on our side, opponents will come with all sorts of rumours but, know that God is doing a lot on our behalf and we must continue to build on the gains of what the Lord is doing for us; we will need to work hard to ensure that we deliver all the candidates of our party," Governor Okowa who attended the event with his wife, Edith, stated.
Ven. Charles Osemenem delivered a sermon on the theme, "When God desires," stating that there is a reason for everything and "all glory must go to God because God will do what He has set to do. "
"Always pray for the grace of God because when God decides, no one can stop it, no man can share in the glory with God," he said.
Director General of the campaign council, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon took the first lesson at the service which was also attended by Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, Senator Patrick Osakwe, among other members of the campaign council.

“Civil Service, Great Contributor To Our Success Story” - Okowa

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has described the civil service as great contributor to the success story of his administration.

The governor made the description today (02/01/19} in Asaba when the Delta State College of Permanent Secretaries led by the Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko paid him a felicitation visit.

According to the governor, “there is no doubt that whatever we do in government, it will not be successful without your (civil servants) commitment, without the bureaucracy, governance will not be easy.”

“There is no doubt that we have gone through tough times and the situation is getting better; we have been trying to get out of the mono-economy but, the economy of Nigeria is still dependent on oil,” he said, asserting, “I appreciate the cooperation I am getting from the civil service; though we still have some challenges in the area of pensions, we are doing a lot in that area.”

He continued, “in the last two months we have released more than N1.2 Billion for pensions, we are paying for old pensions, we are paying for the new scheme and paying for past services which amounts to N1.25 Billion monthly on pensions alone.”

While observing that 2019 is an election year, Governor Okowa urged the Permanent Secretaries to put in their best in their jobs, as such would spur their subordinates to work harder.

He expressed hope that there will be “reasonable and peaceful transition as we go into the elections; the more we relate with ourselves, the better for us; I thank you for this visit which is the first official visit in the year, 2019.”

Mr. Bayoko had said the visit was to appreciate Governor Okowa for what he has done for civil servants and the people of Delta State.

“We are here to thank God who has manifested Himself in you; it is a good thing that we visit you physically and appreciate you, we thank you very much our Governor for what you have done for us and what you will continue to do for us,” the Head of Service said.

High point of the visit was the presentation of gifts to the governor and offer of prayers for the governor, members of his family, the civil service and for all Deltans.

Congratulations the road master.

2019: Be United, Peaceful, Okowa Urges Deltans

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has called on the people of the state to remain united to the cause of developing the state irrespective of ethnic or party differences.

Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, felicitated with all Deltans as they stepped into 2019 and expressed gratitude to God for the grace granted Delta and its citizens in 2018.

Praying for the unity and peace in the state, which, he noted “is the bedrock of meaningful development in any given society,” he expressed the hope that 2019 will be a year of fulfilling a greater and stronger Delta.

He said: “Given our success story in the past three and half years in office, I have no doubt that with the same level of cooperation from the good people of Delta State, our government will achieve more in all facets of governance".

“Our optimism is driven by the support we enjoy from our Youths, leaders, the legislature, the judiciary, the civil service, my team of political appointees, agencies of government, both at the federal and the state levels, as well multilateral donor agencies.”

Governor Okowa noted that, "as one of the first states to sign the 2019 budget, our government was prepared for the task of governance and provision of key infrastructure which made us to hit the ground running from day one“.

"I must emphasise that the consistent early passage of our state budget has given me and indeed the state the advantage of early starters, both in the appreciation of what Deltans expect from their government and in the development of solutions to meet such expectations".

The Governor stressed that, despite shortfall in revenue projections, his administration will continue to ensure that the developmental needs of the state are attended to by applying the level of prudence and ingenuity that the present challenges demand. He appealed to all Deltans to look up to the New Year with the same zeal of a people with a capacity to excel even in difficult situations and noted that “Delta people have always been identified for their creativity.”

The Governor on behalf of his family and the state government wished Deltans a peaceful, more prosperous and a Stronger Delta in the new year.

Delta Govt/World Bank Approves Construction Of 2800m Owanta Gully Project

The World Bank assisted Nigeria Erosion And Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) has given approval for the construction of the gully erosion project in Owanta in Ika North East Local Government Area, stretching to a distance of about 2800m, 25m deep and 11.5m wide.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. JJohn Nani disclosed this to newsmen in Asaba, during the Bi-Annual Steering Committee meeting of Delta NEWMAP following the clearance of the Engineering Design and Bidding Document of the Midoma/Iwerebor Erosion Site project by the World Bank.

Nani said the project which is designed to reduce the vulnerability to soil erosion in targeted sub-catchment areas with the aim of focusing on gully erosion and flood sites that threaten infrastructure and livelihood in the state, is a collaborative project between the World Bank and Delta State Government.

The Commissioner who is also the Chairman, Steering Committee of the Project, said the approval of the Midoma/Iwerebor Erosion Site project okayed for construction by the collaborators has given way for the advert publication of the project in some major local and National newspapers requesting interest for bidders for the civil works.

Nani, said the approval for the construction of the project has becomes necessary following the completion of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) study carried out in Owanta community and "No Objection" granted by the World Bank.

He said as soon as the date for the advert publication for the Owanta Civil Works expires, interested bidders would be invited for the bids opening and onward award of contract to would-be contractors.

He said Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa is very passionate to see to the commencement and completion of the erosion and flood project located in Obomkpa, Ukwu-Nzu, Ubulu-Uku, Owanta and Jesse communities.

While appreciating members of the Steering Committee including the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Precious Ndidi Anuku and other representatives drawn from line ministries, departments and agencies of government in the state, Hon. Nani called on the erosion prone communities in the state to be supportive of the various state government's policies and programmes aimed at bringing succor to the grassroots.

Earlier, the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Isaac Ufiofio, who made a PowerPoint presentation of update on the Delta State NEWMAP and 2019 WorkPlan/Budget, said the gully of the Owanta Erosion Site is very active and seriously threatening lives and properties in the hearts of the community.

He stated that the gully lies at N60 14' 26.4" and E60 11' 34.9" with average 25m deep, 11.5m wide and stretches to a distance of about 2800m.

Mr. Ufiofio said the results of the environmental studies leading to the civil works of the other four erosion and flood sites located in Jesse, Ubulu-Uku, Ukwu-Nzu and Obomkpa are at advanced stages of clearance by the World Bank.

Okowa Signs 2019 Appropriation Bill Into Law

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has signed the 2019 Appropriation Bill of 390.3 billion naira into law.

The governor signed the bill today (27/12/18) in Asaba, saying early signing of the bill into law will give his administration room to utilise the dry season to engage in construction works.

According to the governor, "this is very important for governance, because, it gives us room to utilise the dry season to construct roads and provide other infrastructures before the commencement of the rainy season."

The 2019 Budget is made of a capital expenditure of 233.2 billion naira and a recurrent expenditure of 157.1 billion naira.

He commended the Delta State House of Assembly for the early passage of the appropriation bill, describing the state legislature as great partners in the delivery of dividends of democracy to Deltans.

"With the signing of the appropriation bill into law today, it means power has been given to the executive to start implementing the budget; we now have enough room to perform," he asserted, adding, " with the cooperation and partnership of the Delta State House of Assembly in the course of 2018, we have worked in harmony putting Delta State first; together in the last three years plus, we have been able to impact positively on infrastructure development, we have constructed roads, built a lot of schools, improved on the health facilities and provided a lot of jobs for Deltans."

He continued, "due to our achievements, there is peace in Delta State; we thank Deltans for the partnership, it has yielded great results and we are confident that as we are leaving office in 2023, we would have left a lot in the state that we would be proud of and Deltans will be happier."

It would be recalled that Governor Okowa had on 17 October, 2018, presented a budgetary proposal of N367 Billion to the Delta State House of Assembly.

Presenting the approved bill to the governor for his signature, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, accompanied by the Clerk of the House, Mrs Lyna Ochulor and other principal officers, disclosed that the bill as presented by the governor passed through rigorous process before it was approved.

"The bill passed through all the processes as it was designed to consolidate on the achievements of the governor," Rt. Hon. Oborevwori said.

AS WE CELEBERATE THE SEASON OF XMAS.

We are in the season of hearty cheers and thanksgiving. Therefore, we must thank God almighty for the opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ which should constantly remind us of the interminable love of God and the Godly values of peace, love, dedication, commitment, honesty, and togetherness.


My message to you this season is in-line with the doctrines of Christ – to love and appreciate your neighbours; and working together to improve our common destiny.

Throughout the year, you, the people of Ethiope have displayed resolute characters by standing firm and in one voice for the progress of Ethiope. We must continue like this for the rest of our lives. We must support ourselves just as Jesus encouraged us to. We must carry on this mutual trust into the new year where we have another chance to influence our fate.

It is in this mood I wish you merry Christmas and a prosperous new year ahead.

#Igbakpa4HouseOfReps
#Okiemute2019

Okowa Preaches Reconciliation, Love, Charity At Christmas

AS Nigerian Christians join other faithful across the world to celebrate Christmas on Tuesday, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has called on Christians to reflect on the lessons of the birth of Jesus Christ as they go about celebrating the yuletide.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Charles Aniagwu in Asaba on Monday, Governor Okowa urged Christians to pray for peace, love and unity of the country and total reconciliation with God and man as they enter the new year.

The Governor noted that the best way to celebrate Christ was to show love and to give like Christ did. He reminded Christians and indeed all Nigerians that Christ showed the greatest love by giving himself and dying on the cross, and therefore urged Christians to also give especially to the less priviledged in the society.

"I congratulate all Christians for witnessing yet another Christmas season. I advise all of you to use the festive period for sober reflections and total spiritual renewals and devotion towards living in peace and harmony with adherents of other religions.

“The birth of Jesus Christ being celebrated at Christmas, should be used to reconcile ourselves with God, promote peace, show love, and unity, including the display of the spirit of tolerance in the accomplishment of our vision of building a better State and country. I wish to admonish all Christians to emulate Jesus Christ in words and deeds, imbibe the core lessons of freedom, love, tolerance, sacrifice, generosity and peaceful co-existence, which Christ stood for.”

He said Christians should use the occasion to exhibit Godly virtues and render humanitarian services to mankind for the betterment of the nation and the sustenance of peace.

The Governor reiterated his call for total reconciliation with God and man in line with the yuletide, pointing out that the coming year would usher in more good tidings for Deltans and Nigerians.

While congratulating Deltans and Nigerians on the Christmas and newyear celebration, Governor Okowa urged them to deepen their love for Christ who gave his own life to redeem us from death.

Okowa, Ibori Calls For Soul Winning For Christ
... As Divine Way Baptist Church Clocks 25 Years

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and former Governor of the state, Chief James Ibori have called on Christians to be actively involved in evangelism to win souls for Christ.
They spoke today(23/12/18) at the 25th anniversary celebration of Divine Way Baptist Church, Asaba.
"Soul winning is the call of every Christian," Governor Okowa stated, noting that while befitting structures are necessary for the comfort of those who worships God, the greatest task before every Christian is to win more souls for Christ.
He commended the Divine-Way Baptist Church for midwifing the birth of several churches, observing that it was important for more people to know the importance of serving God.
"I am glad that this Church has grown and is more interested in soul winning," the governor asserted and used the occasion to call on Christians to reconcile themselves with God as they celebrate Christmas.
He stated, "this is a season to rejoice because of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ; it is about your reconciliation with God, get people reconciled with Him, carry the message of Jesus Christ to more people."
Chief Ibori in a brief speech as the Chairman of the occasion, said, "everybody should be involved in the growth of the church."
The former Governor urged Christians not to limits their activities to building physical structures for God but, to be involved in attracting more people to worship God.
Rev. Dr. Ihwighwu in a sermon at the event, observed that "celebrating God without an encounter with God is no celebration."
He urged Christians to have encounter with God and always go out to testify the goodness of God to the people.
Chairman of the anniversary committee, Dr Amos Ighorodje in an address, said, "this occasion is to thank God for all He has done for us."
The celebration was capped with the launching of the twin pastorium of the church.

Okowa Preaches Reconciliation

... As Delta Holds Festival Of Nine Lessons And Carols

AS Christians all over the world celebrate Christmas, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has called on the people to reconcile themselves with God and their neighbours.

The governor made the call on Friday night at a festival of Nine Lessons and Carols christened, “an Evening of Praise" organised by the Ministry of Information, The Pointer Newspaper, Delta Broadcasting Service, Asaba and Warri in conjunction with office of the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

According to the governor, “reconciliation with God is the reason for the season which is about our Lord, Jesus Christ. “

“Once you are reconciled with God, you will reconcile with man; you will stay away from sin and the blessing of God will flow in you,” Governor Okowa said, adding, “it is time to prepare a room in your heart for Jesus Christ because, once you have done that, you will receive peace.”

Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Snr Apostle Sylvanus Okorote in a sermon asserted that, “God as the author of peace, reconciled man to Himself through His son, Jesus Christ; once you are reconciled with God, you are a new creature.”

He condemned ritual killings and called on politicians against political killing ahead of 2019 general elections.

ABUJA 2018: How Okowa Spurred Team Delta To Victory
BY FIDELIS EGUGBO

WINNERS are known for doing extraordinary things, things that others cannot do. Delta State was created on August 27, 1991 and till date, the National Sports Festival was held in Benue – 1996, Imo – 1998, Edo- 2002, Abuja – 2004, Ogun – 2006, Kaduna – 2009, Rivers - 2011, Lagos – 2012 and Abuja – 2018.
It is very important for one to recall that Delta State metamorphosed from Bendel State which came into being from the Mid-Western region. So, when the National Sports Festival was first held in Lagos in 1973, the Mid-Western State got 68 gold medals to clinch the first position, beating Lagos which got 52 gold medals to get the second position. That feat was repeated in 1975 and when Bendel State was created, the state continued to dominate in the sports fiesta until it gave birth to Delta and Edo States.
One cannot forget in haste, the slogan, “Up Bendel" which came as a result of the achievements the state recorded in sports. With the creation of Delta State, it was expected that the young state would have its challenges, so, the festivals held in 1996, 1998 and 2002 saw the oil-rich state clinching the 4th and 3rd positions respectively until Abuja 2004 when the state got 103 gold medals to take the first position.
That victory at Abuja repositioned the state as the feeder of the Mid-Western State and later, Bendel State during the days of Dr Samuel Ogbemudia as the Military Governor of Mid-Western State and later, Governor of Bendel State. From 2004, a sleeping giant in sports was awoken and the state clinched and retained the first position in 2006 and 2009 but, in a controversial circumstance, it took the second position in the Garden City Games of 2011 in Port Harcourt with Rivers State bagging the first position. In Eko 2012, held in Lagos State, Delta State bounced back again to its number one position with 64 gold medals.
There was a lull in the hosting of the game and it was as if the trophy would remain forever in Delta State until this year when the Ministry of Youths and Sports Development revived the festival in Abuja.
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is a great sports lover; his numerous contributions to the development of sports certainly, cannot be listed here due to space constraint but, will such a passionate sports enthusiast allow his state to take the second position in the National Sports Festival during his time? The answer is an obvious, NO.
As a man who knows his onion, he got the athletes in camp preparatory for the sports festival and on the day they departed for Abuja, he made a mouth-watering offer of N1 million per gold medal, N500, 000 per silver and N250, 000 for every Bronze medal won in the festival.
On hearing the cash prizes for the medallists, some of us started thinking about changing our profession while some of us became afraid of what may happen at the festival bearing in mind that some of the athletes may take the game as a do-or-die affair. If you are aware that some of the state governments offered N300, 000 per gold medal while most others were saying that it was a thing of pride for their athletes to fly the flag of their states at the tournament, you will know that even other athletes would chicken out on seeing athletes from Delta State. Trust Delta State Government, Team Delta was well kitted to the envy of others. So, like the proverbial saying, that a festival that will be fun-filled would be known from the splitting of firewood, it became obvious from the stepping into Abuja by Team Delta that victory was theirs in the festival which took place from December 6 to 16, 2018 at the Main Bowl of the Abuja National Stadium, Abuja.
From the second day of the tournament, Team Delta was topping the medal table and emerged winners in the end with 163 gold medals to beat Rivers State which got 69 gold medals to clinch the 2nd position while Edo State took the 3rd position with 47 gold medals.
It was a medal haul as Team Delta got a total of 352 medals – 88 silver, 101 bronze plus 163 gold medals, to win in the championship against Rivers State that got a total of 194 medals.
Governor Okowa filled with confidence, stormed Abuja for the closing ceremony with some members of the State Executive Council. Sports, as a unifying factor, transcends political, ethnic and religious lines, so, it was not a surprise to see President Mohammadu Buhari congratulating Governor Okowa for the achievements his administration has recorded in the area of sports development. Minister of Sports, Mr Solomon Dalung who presented the award to Governor Okowa observed that the state has blazed the trail in the promotion of continental championships.
Mr Dalung who listed the achievements of Delta State in the area of sports development since the emergence of Governor Okowa to include the hosting of the Senior Africa Athletics Championship, emphasised that Delta State has continued to dominate in sporting championships and has also, contributed immensely to the provision of man power for the Nigerian sports industry.
Governor Okowa who was beaming with smiles as the events lasted, took time to stay with the athletes on their stand and marched with them in the stadium to the cheering of other states' contingents. The governor who was apparently not happy with the performance of some of the states' contingents who were not well prepared said, “we urge other states to compete favourably because, without competition you are not able to excel the way you ought to. We don’t want to become a lazy state; because, we are winning, we want people to compete with us so that we can do better and break new records. Even in the near future, we encourage many more states to compete favourably.”
“We are replicating what our late father, Dr Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, taught us in old Bendel. We are not only developing sports facilities, we are doing all that we can to catch them young. We have the Principals’ and the Headmasters’ Cup and from January, we shall have athletics championship that will involve the secondary and primary schools in the state.
Beyond that, we will encourage the young ones to go into the future with the determination to succeed, we will continue to invest in sports. We congratulate Team Delta, they did very well and we are proud of them,” he said.
He congratulated the Ministry of Sports for organising the festival. With the completion of the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, it was expected that Delta State will be playing host to national, continental and inter-continental sports fiestas; so, at the 19th edition of the National Sports Festival, Delta State bidded for the first time, the hosting right of the festival. Bidding to host the festival was not known to the state, so, while other states like Rivers, Edo and others indicated interest to host the festival earlier, Delta State indicated interest to host the 20th edition of the festival in 2020 few days to the end of the sports meet. At the end, Edo State got the hosting right.
Renowned musical exponents added colour to the event that also saw the display of fireworks. But, it was surprising that the Abuja National Stadium was virtually empty during the closing ceremony despite the fact that the gates to the stadium were opened to spectators. If it were to be at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, the stadium would still be filled to capacity.
In 2020, how will the game play out? Will a Deltan pick nine gold medals as was witnessed in Abuja 2018? Will Governor Okowa increase cash prize for medallists? The joy in the victory recorded by Delta State is that the champions will be representing Nigeria in continental and inter-continental championships. Congratulations Deltans.

(As published on page 10 of The Pointer Newspaper of today, Sunday, December 23, 2018.)

Okowa hails FRSC for flow of traffic on Niger bridge

….as FRSC Boss Oyeyemi joins to control traffic

Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa with FRSC Boboye Oyeyemi

Delta State Governor, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said Nigeria will be better if people in position of authority work passionately for the growth of the nation.

Governor Okowa made the observation in Asaba when the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr Boboye Oyeyemi paid him a courtesy visit.

Oyeyemi went on the visit after personally supervising traffic control on the Niger Bridge to ensure free flow.

Okowa who commended the action of the governor said that it was an example for all those in position of authority to work with zzeal for the growth of the nation.

“I wish and hope Nigerians that are given high offices are able to work with so much zeal, because I believe that if individuals in positions are able to work passionately for our nation, Nigeria will definitely be able to achieve success,” he said.

Governor Okowa emphasised that Nigerians holding positions of authority should live exemplary lives by carrying out their duties with passion.

He commended the proactive measures taken by the FRSC to reduce traffic gridlock at the Niger bridge.

“I must appreciate FRSC for the zeal for us to have free flow of traffic this Christmas season because, we have had situations in the past when people had to sleep at the bridge head.”

“I want to appreciate your men for the level of traffic management,” the governor told the Corps Marshal, observing that the one lane entrance to the bridge was bound to course traffic challenges as roads leading to the bridge from both sides are dual carriage ways.

Mr Oyeyemi had told the governor that he was on visit to special areas of the country that witness heavy traffic during the Yuletide to ensure that appropriate measures were put in place for free flow of traffic.

He commended Governor Okowa for his interest in the affairs of FRSC which had led to the provision of facilities and the enabling environment for the FRSC to carry out their functions, assuring that FRSC officials have been positioned to ensure free flow of traffic on Niger Bridge this yuletide season.

APPRECIATING DR. IFEANYI OKOWA.

By Okolo Hessington Chimennma

Governor Okowa recently approved the construction of a bridge across the Ase creek to easily link kwale with Beneku/Okpai communities.

The approval is a fulfillment of a promise he made sometime ago. I join thousands of Ndokwa people to say a big thank you to our Governor Dr. Okowa for listening to the cry of the ordinary people.

I remember as President of Ndokwa Youth Congress that one of our demands was the construction of that bridge. Our agitation was because it was shameful that despite the huge oil/gas resources been sucked from Okpai, Beneku and kwale the poontoon was their means of crossing a river. Despite sabotage we believed our agitation was right. Today the euphoria which has greeted the news of the approval is a firm testament that our demands was a reflection of the people's desire.

I thank everyone who contributed to making this approval a reality. God bless you all.

I am also thanking the Governor for the Umuebu road presently under construction. This long forgotten road has been a nightmare to our people in Umuebu community, with the road, our hinterlands will be linked to the urban centres.

We appreciate the work you are doing as The Emu/Abbi road is also another testament of your desire for development. Also the Ezhionum/Abbi road which reduced a circutous journey of about 30mins to barely 5minutes is a reminder of your unflinching desire to bring prosperity everywhere. I have not forgotten the Kwale/Ogume Road or the Nsukwa/Ejeme/Ndemili/ Umuaja/Umutu road.

Ndokwa deserves more.

Ndokwa will get more under Okowa.

Let's therefore work hard to make sure the "road master" and Ekweme Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is returned in 2019.

Thank you Okowa.

While appreciating our road master, His Excellency Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the roads he had done in Ndokwa nation, we humbly ask that you look into the Obiaruku/Ezhiokpor road, the oko/Aballa/Utchi/Okpai coastal road, the Ibrede/iyede ame/onogbokor/aboh road, the Iselegu-Onu Aboh road.

Comrd. Hessington OKOLO
President General
Ndokwa Youth Leaders Council.