₦airaland Forum

Okowa Challenges Organized Private Sector To Meet With Corporate Social Responsibilities

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has called on the organised private sector to be involved in development projects in living up to their corporate social responsibilities.

Governor Okowa made the call at the weekend during the commissioning of the DSC roundabout at Ebrumede in Uwvie local government area, developed by the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Champions Cathedral, Warri.

The governor while noting that it was the first project contributed by the church to be commissioned during his administration, stated that it was important for the organized private sector and individuals to contribute to the development of the society.

"I want to thank God for what I am seeing this afternoon; the last three years have been challenging, but, some corporate organizations and well meaning individuals have continued to support us by engaging in development projects," he said, stating, "we have seen individuals assisting us by building schools, constructing roads, but, this is the first time we have seen the church undertake such a large project."

He continued, "I am proud of this place and for the church to think about this shows that it is not just about propagating the word but, impacting on the society."

Governor Okowa who was accompanied to the occasion by a retinue of political office holders emphasized, "I challenge other well meaning individuals and organizations to be involved in the development of the society because, government cannot do it alone, they should meet with their social responsibilities; I thank the church, the people of Uvwie for this project and I want to charge the Chairman of Uvwie local government area to ensure that this place is well maintained to encourage others to contribute to the development of our state."

Chairman of Uwvie local government area, Hon. Ramson Onoyake in a brief speech, thanked Governor Okowa for his leadership style which has given confidence to private investors, assuring that the Uvwie local government council will ensure the maintenance of the roundabout.

Pastor Emmanuel Emefienim of the Champions Cathedral disclosed that that the project was one of the corporate social responsibilities embarked by the church across the state.

He stated that the church will continue to embark on projects that will support life and ensure good governance and thanked Governor Okowa for his assistance that made the execution of the project to come to fruition.

The General Overseer of the Church, Pastor E. Adeboye, the Ovie of Uwvie Kingdom were represented at the occasion which also, featured special prayers for the government and people of Delta State.

ATIKU ABUBAKAR: Great Patriot, Democrat, Man Of Faith At 72 — Okowa

Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has described PDP Presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Waziri Adamawa as a great patriot, democrat and man of faith for his legendary and remarkable contributions to the growth of democracy in Nigeria.

Okowa poured the encomium on the ex-Vice President as he turns 72 years on Sunday November 25, 2018.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, in Asaba on Saturday, the Governor lauded Atiku's strong faith, dexterity, sagacity, courage and penchant for democratic values and ethos as an unrepentant democrat, when he fought numerous political and legal battles to advance the cause of democracy in Nigeria.

He commended the former Vice President for his tremendous impact on the lives of people irrespective of tribe, religion, geography, gender, social status or political affiliation, adding "Your altruistic nature has genuinely led you to provide opportunities for people to utilize their potentials and earn a decent means of livelihood without expecting anything in return.

"Your massive investments in education, agriculture, media, hospitality, water, oil and gas, in your home state of Adamawa, and other parts of the country stands you out indisputably as the highest employer of labour besides government, adding "Over the years, you maintained a large, devoted and loyal followership and bestrode Nigeria’s political scene like a colossus due to your famed generosity and large-heartedness and we are convinced that you will get Nigeria working again.

"On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I write to felicitate with you on the ocassion of your 72nd birthday anniversary. In the past 72 years, your family and indeed your political and business associates as well as admirers do have cause to be grateful to Almighty God for having granted you a life of great accomplishment and abiding fulfillment," Governor Martin OkontaMartin Okonta

Okowa Inspects Storm Drainage, Road Projects In Asaba, Okpanam

... Appreciates The Support of Deltans



DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed joy that the roads being constructed by his administration are meeting with the yearnings of the people.

Governor Okowa spoke with a cross section of journalists today (23/11/18) in Asaba after inspecting the level of work done at the storm drainage projects, the Mariam Babangida Way; different roads constructed and under construction in Okpanam community.

Fielding questions on how he felt seeing the reactions of the people towards the projects executed by his administration during the inspection tour, Governor Okowa said, “it is a thing of joy that the people are happy with our projects, it shows that we are meeting with their expectations; I was quite surprised with the way the network of roads in Okpanam have impacted on the lives of the people because, obviously, the people were in difficulties before the roads were constructed.”

“As an individual, I am happy that the people appreciates what we are doing and as a government, we will continue to develop our road infrastructure and other infrastructures because, that is the promise we made to the people; we will continue to work hard because the excitement of the people when developmental projects are being achieved brings so much joy to us in government and the network of roads in Okpanam is truly a thing of joy,” he said.

He continued, “with the dry season, we will do a lot more in the area of road construction; we are aware that despite our efforts to construct roads in different parts of the state, road infrastructure still needs a lot of attention in our state and we are aware of the importance of good road network to the lives of our people.”

The governor who had earlier, inspected the storm drainage project at Government House, Cabinet Office Road, Ralph Uwechue Way, among others, observed that the projects are in different stages of completion.

According to the governor, “the main project that we inspected today is the storm drainage projects and we saw a lot of progress; we are looking into the end of February for the completion but, from what we saw at the drainage project sites the companies will likely complete the jobs ahead of schedule which is by the end of January; so, I am glad that a lot is being done, the contractors are very serious with their work and that is very good. “

Commissioner for Works, Mr James Augoye, his Information counterpart, Patrick Ukah and the Director-General of Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency, Mr Clement Ofuani were among those who accompanied Governor Okowa on the inspection tour.

Delta ALGON Commends Gov. Okowa For Assisting Council Workers With N5bn

The Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Mr Itiako Ikpokpo says Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has raised the bar in workers welfare by the N5billion assistance to offset the backlog salaries of local government workers and primary school teachers.

Mr Ikpokpo stated this when he addressed the press today in Asaba on the complete payment of salary backlog of local government workers and primary school teachers in the State at the Conference Hall, Ministry of Information.

The ALGON Chairman who lauded the state government for the release of N5billion to offset the backlog of salaries of primary school teachers and local government workers in the state stated that the payment of the backlog salaries was made possible by the release of N5billion to add to the N7billion being the local government share of the Paris Club Loan to offset the backlog of salaries.

He said, “The devotion of the entire local government share of the Paris Club Loan and the monumental assistance from the Delta State Government underscores government commitment to the wellbeing of workers in the state.”

“His Excellency did promised in January 2018 that subject to improvement of the revenue earning of the state, the Delta state government will assist in clearing salary arrears owed local government workers and primary school staff, some dating back to 2014, long before the advent of the Okowa administration. A promise though difficult in view of the huge financial consequence has been magnanimously kept by His Excellency.”

He stated that the singular act by Governor Okowa’s fatherly disposition, concern and kind heartedness to the plight of workers and Deltans in general had proven beyond doubt that the Governor’s words were his bond, a promise keeper and leader who placed prime consideration on the betterment of his people.

The ALGON Chairman disclosed that the local government workers and school teachers were owed between one month to eight and half months salaries stated that the recession of 2015 led to the backlog of salaries by LGAs and not mismanagement of resources by the LGAs as was insinuated in some quarters.

According to Ikpokpo, the recession experienced in the country led to the dwindling inflow of the local government councils in terms of its revenue generation, saying that it was from the IGR that the local governments carry out environment sanitation, fuelling generators, capital expenditure and other running cost.

Mr Ikpokpo noted that the local governments in the country would only get it right when local governments get autonomy to run their affairs, even as he promised that ALGON would continue to fight for local government autonomy until it was realised.

He called on the press to always highlight areas of concern in the local government administration so as to put them on check.

In order to reciprocate the good gesture of Governor Okowa, Ikpokpo charged all local government workers and primary schools teachers to enhance their commitment to duty in the overall interest of the local governments and Delta state at large.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon Joyce Overah, said ALGON was grateful to Governor Okowa for coming to the aid of local government workers and school teachers to offset the backlog of salaries owed them.

The ALGON boss was flanked by his colleagues, Hon. Eugene Innoaghan, Sapele, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor, Isoko North, Hon. Dr. Michael Tidi, Warri South, Hon. Chief Jite Brown, Udu, Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, Warri North, Hon. Ransom Onoyake, Uvwie, Hon. Dr. Richard Kofi Ughelli South, Hon. Louis Ndukwe, Oshimili North, Hon. Victor Okoh, Ika South , Chairman State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Hon. Sunny Ogwu and Executive Secretary of the Board Sir Bryian Unini.

GOVERNOR IFEANYI OKOWA'S STERLING ACHIEVEMENTS IS MAKING HIS OPPONENTS IN 2019 ELECTION IRRELEVANT SAYS EBINUM

Patriot Dantes Odogwu

The Senior Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Special Duties (Contributory Health Commission) and Director of Media and ICT Vote Okowa Again 2019, Solomon Ebinum said that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa's astonishing performance is making his opponents look like juveniles.

He noted that the numerous achievements of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has remained a subject of discussion in most political circles.

He further stated that the Governor had become a darling to people in the State and the entire country due to his outstanding statesmanship on national issues.

Ebinum posited that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is on course with his extraordinary achievements recorded in the last three and half years. In addition, he was of the opinion that Governor Okowa's policies and initiatives are outstanding reasons for Deltans to be proud of this political colossus of a man, whose imprimatur is seen in every sector of progress and development

According to him, it is a foregone conclusion that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa will win re-election in 2019 and remain in power for another four years.

He also maintained that he remains optimistic that the people-oriented Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is on course to do better when re elected. He assured everyone that the Governor would continually champion such courses that advance the development of the entire State and our people.

Finally, he described the opposition in the state as preachers of the book of lies, incompetent, power hungry and those that lack a blueprint for government.

Okowa's Governorship Ordained by God - Hon. Igbenije

By Ben Nwaka

A Peoples Democratic Party, PDP chieftain in Delta State, Hon. Cosmas Igbenije, has affirmed that Senator Ifeanyi Okowa,who is currently the governor of Delta State was ordained by God to lead the State.

Hon. Igbenije, who is a Special Assistant on Special Duties, noted that it was very clear God's hand was on the governorship aspiration of Senator Okowa, going by the many intrigues, power play and intimidating obstacles he (Okowa) faced and overcame prior to the PDP governorship primary where he emerged the party's flag bearer.

He said it is clear to every discerning mind that Governor Okowa is God's Project', and therefore cannot be stopped by anybody, adding that it is God that decides who He anoints for any particular assignment at any given time and place.

According to him, "Obvious signs come into play to clearly show that an individual is ordained by God for leadership. Doors are opened, and when a man is anointed he is used by God to bring proffer solutions and bring succour to the people."

Hon Igbenije, who quoted some portions of the Bible to buttress the point being made, urged that, "as a nation or state, we must be very careful not to jeopardize our wellbeing by supporting leaders who have been chosen by God."

Governor Okowa, he stressed is, "a God fearing leader, and a believer who has put his confidence and trust in God, in piloting the affairs of Delta State," which according to him, " has made it possible for the administration to record tremendous achievements in all sectors and areas of the state in three and half years, even at a time of economic downturn."

He expressed happiness that the governor is always using every opportunity to acknowledge God's grace and intervention in the affairs of the state, pointing out that while speaking recently at an event organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria, the governor emphasized the importance of prayer in turning the fortunes of the country.

Hon. Igbenije disclosed that in the last three and half years so many feats have been recorded by the Governor Okowa led administration that have put smiles on the faces of Deltans.

He listed some of the achievements to include, the many health care assistance, including surgeries, rendered to thousands of the citizens, support to widows and orphans, empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), Graduate Employment Enhancement Programme (GEEP), Ward liaison officers programme at the grassroots, the STEP and YAGEP programmes which have helped in making thousands of young Deltans not only entrepreneurs but employers of labours, assistance to internally displaced persons across the state, who were affected by flood disaster.

Others areas of achievement according to him, are the completion of the magnificent Stephen Keshi Stadium, hosting of the All Africa Athletic Championship, Aiteo football finals, and training sessions of the Nigeria Super Eadgles, which enhanced socio economic activities in Asaba, the remodellin and upgrading of the Asaba International Airport.

All these achievements and many more he noted, are testimonies of Governor Okowa's resilience and can do spirit, which has lifted Delta State from the doldrum of backwardness to the elevating position of development

He therefore, called on all Deltans to give maximum support to Governor Okowa, and reelect him in 2019, so he could continue with the good work he started in 2015.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa welcomes former President Olusegun Obasanjo to commission landmark projects in Delta State. The projects include the Dualisation of the Old Lagos Asaba Road, Agbor, the Dualised Owa-Eke/Owa-Alero Road in Ika North East Local Government Area and the Main Bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba.
OKOWA DEY WORK, DELTANS DEY SEE AM!

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa welcomes former President Olusegun Obasanjo to commission landmark projects in Delta State. The projects include the Dualisation of the Old Lagos Asaba Road, Agbor, the Dualised Owa-Eke/Owa-Alero Road in Ika North East Local Government Area and the Main Bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba.
OKOWA DEY WORK, DELTANS DEY SEE AM!

Okowa Dedicates Governor of the Year Award To Deltans

Delta State Governor, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa on Sunday dedicated his New Telegraph 2018 Governor of the Year Award (Human Capital Development and Infrastructure) to the good people of Delta State.

Okowa, who was represented at the Awards ceremonies by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon Festus Ovie Agas, and the Commissioner for Information, Ogbueshi Patrick Ukah said the Award was made possible by Deltans who not only gave him the opportunity to serve through a popular pan Deltan mandate some 42 months ago, but have also ensured that there exists an enabling environment for him to perform.

Receiving the Award on behalf of the Governor, Agas said “His Excellency, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is delighted with this Award as the Governor of the Year (Human Capital Development and Infrastructure) and wishes to thank the management and staff of the New Telegraph for finding him worthy of this Award. This Award is dedicated to Deltans for not only massively voting for him but also making it possible for him to perform”.

Governor Okowa was among 28 Awardees in various categories which cut across Politics, Economics, Entrepreneur, Sports, Entertainment and Business inside the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on Saturday night.

Speaking on the Award, Ogbueshi Ukah said “ without being immodest, it is a testimony to the fact that Governor Okowa has led the state to lay a very solid foundation that will be difficult to destroy. He is moving the state forward. With him, there is no room for abandoned projects. He not only completes previous ones, he commences and finishes necessary and essential projects. And I agree completely with what the SSG said on behalf of His Excellency, that the award is truly dedicated to Deltans who have given us the mandate and the enabling environment to perform”.

Earlier, Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of New Telegraph Newspaper, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, in her welcome speech said the 2018 New Telegraph Awards was designed to encourage individuals who, against all odds, are doing their very best to keep Nigeria going notwithstanding the numerous challenges in the country.

Quoting Winston Churchill, she said: ‘success is not final, failure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts.’

“We believe that if we appreciate those who are faithful in little things, they will be encouraged to do more. That is why we are here tonight; to celebrate achievement and achievers, to count our blessings instead of dwelling on our errors.” Egbemode said the awardees were carefully selected.

The event which was chaired by former Ogun State Governor and veteran journalist, Chief Segun Osoba, was graced by many dignitaries which include past and serving governors, administrators, captains of industries, sports personalities and entertainment buffs.

SPORTS FESTIVAL: We Are Going To Abuja To Win – Okowa

AHEAD of the December, 2018 edition of National Sports Festival, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said the state will participate in Abuja to win.

Governor Okowa gave the assurance today (16/11/18) while receiving the symbolic Torch Of Unity at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

The governor who was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Festus Ovie-Agas, observed that Delta State as home of sports, will go to Abuja for the festival to continue with its winning streak.

“Delta State is sports loving, it has left no stone unturned to develop sports facilities and manpower,” the governor said, adding, “it has put together viable sports programmes to develop its youths and prepare them for competitions.”

He continued, “as you are aware, Delta has won the sports festival several times and we will participate in this 2018 edition, determined to win, we are coming to Abuja to win again at the 19th National Sports Festival.”

Mr Sunday Obot, Zonal Coordinator, South South, Ministry of Youths and Sports who presented the Torch on behalf of the Minister of Youths and Sports, Mr Solomon Dalung observed that the sports festival instituted shortly after the Nigerian civil war has continued to play vital roles in bringing Nigerians together.

He disclosed that presenting the Torch to the governor was to invite the state to the sports festival billed to hold in Abuja.

No Going Back On Massive Road Construction -Okowa

By FIDELIS EGUGBO/ Kingdom Zorzororzororzor

DELTA State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa has assured of massive delivery of road projects, saying that with the setting in of the dry season, contractors handling different road projects in the state have fully mobilised to sites.

Governor Okowa made the disclosure yesterday during the inspection of some road projects in Boji-Boji Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The governor, who spoke to journalists after inspecting Queen’s Street and roads at the Delta Development and Property Authority (DDPA) Estate, assured Deltans that the dry season would be fully utilised for massive construction of roads across the state.

According to him, “I am happy with the quality of project, though, we noticed that some factors were not taken into consideration at Queen’s Street; the right thing would be done because, our people in all parts of the state deserve necessary infrastructure.”

“It is true that contractors have mobilised to sites, as a government, we always utilise the dry season to the fullest to construct roads,” he stated.

Fielding questions on how contractors will be paid, the governor said, “We have mapped out our payment strategy; our contractors are doing very well and have also keyed into our programme to fully utilise the dry season.”

Speaking about the storm drainage projects in Asaba, Governor Okowa asserted that the contractors would meet the February, 2019 deadline, disclosing that some of the drainage projects have been completed, while others were at different stages of completion.“The contractors are world class; once they give you their words, they deliver and we are comfortable doing business with them,” he said.
The state Commissioner for Works, Chief James Auguye took Governor Okowa round the project sites

Asaba Airport fully back, targets international flights soon.

Austine Ayemidejor, the Project Manager of Asaba Airport, has said that it has fully resumed operations after its downgrade by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in 2014.

Mr Ayemidejor stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital.

He said efforts were on to ensure that the airport was upgraded from its current category, six, to category eight or nine, to enable it to engage in international flights.

“The airport is on category six now, we hope to go to category eight or nine in the next couple of weeks.

“Most international airports in the country operate on category nine and it is important to know that the Asaba airport runway can receive any type of aircraft.

“So, the airport is set to go on to the next level to receive Boeing 737 and eventually categories of Boeing 777.

“We can go international as soon as we get approval from the regulatory authority,” he said.

Mr Ayemidejor said since the rehabilitation work on the runway and other ancillary facilities as directed by the regulatory, activities at the airport had greatly increased.

The project manager lamented the huge loss of revenue during the period the airport was not in operation due to the downgrading.

He expressed joy that the facility had fully resumed operation with three flights from Lagos and Abuja to Asaba on daily basis.

“We have lots of activities going on here. We have three flights – the Air Peace, Aero Contractor and Overland – and the volume of traffic is high.

“I am quite happy that the runway has been fully rehabilitated. The state government has done well in this regard and the perimeter fencing project is ongoing.

Mr Ayemidejor noted that Asaba airport was a gateway to eastern Nigeria and with proximity to Onitsha and Nnewi markets, it would be easily accessible to many users.

The project manager said the airport authority was discussing with the three airlines now plying the route to see the possibilities of connecting from Asaba to Port Harcourt, Calabar, Uyo and others.

He expressed appreciation to the state governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, for the intervention that repositioned the airport for better services.
Mr Ayemidejor solicited the corporation of all stakeholders in creating awareness on the readiness of the airport to operate flights in the morning, afternoon and evening.

The Chief Pilot, Air Peace, Egonu Victor, told NAN that airline commenced flight services in Asaba about four years ago, but had to suspend its activities due to poor facilities.
He said with the current upgrade and transformations at the airport by state government, it had resumed operations in earnest.
(NAN)

2019: Delta speaker urges Delta Central to vote for Okowa

As the nation gradually moves towards the 2019 general elections, the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the people of Delta Central to massively vote for Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in the 2019 election.

The Speaker who spoke in Warri on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at an Urhobo interactive public event tagged "Okowa Loves Urhobo Nation," said governor Okowa, from inception of his political career, has demonstrated his love for people from different parts of the state in such a way that no one can say that he is tribalistic and discriminatory to any ethnic group in the state in particular and the country at large.

Rt Hon Oborevwori who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon Francis Okan, said the state governor has shown beyond all reasonable doubts that he is a detribalized governor, adding that there is no pretence about the love governor Okowa has for the Urhobo Nation.

The Speaker, therefore urged the Urhobo nation to reciprocate the uncommon love the Speaker has for them, noting that Okowa has done a lot for the people of Delta Central to warrant their support.

"He has been very supportive to us in Delta Central Senatorial District and let us also show him that love. For us in this District, we should not even consider contesting against him.

"The people of Delta Central Senatorial District have done their own part. We have spent ten years in power, eight years of Chief James Ibori and two years of the late Chief Felix Ibru .Delta South has done their eight years, so it is the turn of Delta North, the people of Delta North should have their second tenure to complete their eight years before it will go back to Delta Central again in 2023. Okowa really love Urhobo Nation," Rt Hon Oborevwori said.

Rt. Hon. Oborevwore said that in the interest of fairness and equity, it was proper that Delta North produces the next governor in the person of Governor Okowa, stressing that governor Okowa, who has actually done very well for the Urhobo Nation.

"The Governor has performed in Delta Central and the state as a whole; he has his foot prints in all parts of Delta Central Senatorial District as well as other parts of the state. He has done very well.

"We all can see that in Delta state, there is peace, people are happy; he has handled the issue of ethnic crises and attacks on oil installations. The people are at peace with him, he has commissioned projects all over the state and before the end of this year, he would inaugurate more. Our people must continue to be at peace with Governor Okowa who loves us so much.

"Let us again at this large gathering today reassure Delta North and Governor Okowa that we in Delta Central Senatorial District will not forsake them in 2019. If we do not support Delta North in 2019, how can we tell them to support us in 2023?

"If you check the budget since the inception of this administration, you will notice the even distribution of projects to all Senatorial Districts and Local Governments. This can also be said of appointments made so far by the Governor. Governor Okowa has a large heart; very accommodating and his second name is Charity!

"To me, it seems that the Governor has even favoured Delta Central more in a way that many never anticipated. It is a proven and an amazing fact that we Urhobo people can say that Governor Okowa has Urhobo blood flowing in his veins. The love, respect and manner in which he takes our matter as his own is deeply touching.

"That is why the Urhobos should not allow themselves to be deceived with Urhobo Agenda because in Okowa the Urhobo upliftment and prosperity Agenda is being fulfilled. As the Speaker, I work closely with the Governor and can tell you that no person at this time can serve and help us better than Governor Okowa," Rt Hon Oborevwori said.

He commended the organizers of the programme saying that the interactive session came at the right time.

"I want to encourage you to go from door to door to let our people know that Governor Okowa is the real deal and we must vote massively for him," he added.

EXPANDING BUSINESS ACTIVITIES IN ASABA

Patriot Dantes Odogwu.

The new Ogbeogonogo Market extension,an initiative of Asaba Capital City Development Agency, is another milestone by the SMART Government towards expanding economic activities in Asaba and environ.

The gigantic complex with 1212 lock up stores is expected to have all the features of a modern market that befits the Capital City.

With a mini fire station, Facility management Team, prompt waste disposal scheme, parking lots, borehole, prompt power supply among others, the initiative shall surely engender more economic activities in the State as well as boost productive capacity of Deltans.

Okowa Urges Christians To Give Without Restriction

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Christians to make their thanksgiving to God without restriction bearing in mind that all that they have and they are, was made possible by God.

Governor Okowa made the call on Sunday, November 11, 2018 at the 2018 harvest thanksgiving service of St Peter's Anglican Church, Boji-Boji Owa, Ika North-East local government area of Delta State.

According to the governor who attended the service with his wife, Dame Edith and political aides, "it is very important that we give with a clean heart and give the best that we have because, whatever we have was given to us by God."
"We have come here beautifully dressed; we give praise to the Lord our God but, there are questions, have we prepared ourselves to honour God? Are we prepared to give selflessly? The conviction must come from within because, he who gives freely will be rewarded by God," he said, adding, "those who give to God freely are always victorious in whatever they do."

The governor continued, "There is ways something for you to thank God for, thanksgiving and offering is very good, giving to the Lord is a command and a privilege; give your best to God bearing in mind the Biblical story of Cain and Abel, knowing that our God is a good God, He does good things."
"There is nothing the Lord cannot do, if He calls you fruitful, nothing will stop you from being fruitful; if He calls you blessed, no affliction will come near you, the devil will have no hold over you," he stated.

He emphasised that Christians must give, in humility, cheerfully, willingly, in righteousness and honourably.

The service featured special prayers, thanksgiving, fund raising, among others.

The Speaker of the Delta State house of Assembly Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori attended the Harvest Thanksgiving service.

Okowa Urges Christians To Give Without Restriction

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Christians to make their thanksgiving to God without restriction bearing in mind that all that they have and they are, was made possible by God.

Governor Okowa made the call on Sunday, November 11, 2018 at the 2018 harvest thanksgiving service of St Peter's Anglican Church, Boji-Boji Owa, Ika North-East local government area of Delta State.

According to the governor who attended the service with his wife, Dame Edith and political aides, "it is very important that we give with a clean heart and give the best that we have because, whatever we have was given to us by God."
"We have come here beautifully dressed; we give praise to the Lord our God but, there are questions, have we prepared ourselves to honour God? Are we prepared to give selflessly? The conviction must come from within because, he who gives freely will be rewarded by God," he said, adding, "those who give to God freely are always victorious in whatever they do."

The governor continued, "There is ways something for you to thank God for, thanksgiving and offering is very good, giving to the Lord is a command and a privilege; give your best to God bearing in mind the Biblical story of Cain and Abel, knowing that our God is a good God, He does good things."
"There is nothing the Lord cannot do, if He calls you fruitful, nothing will stop you from being fruitful; if He calls you blessed, no affliction will come near you, the devil will have no hold over you," he stated.

He emphasised that Christians must give, in humility, cheerfully, willingly, in righteousness and honourably.

The service featured special prayers, thanksgiving, fund raising, among others.

The Speaker of the Delta State house of Assembly Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori attended the Harvest Thanksgiving service.

Delta 2019 Election: Okowa has no rival ― PDP Chieftain

Ebenezer Adurokiya

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has expressed confidence that Delta State governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa would outrun other contenders from the opposition political parties in the 2019 governorship elections.

Giving the assurance at a dinner he organised in Warri for selected Urhobo leaders in oil and gas communities, Onuesoke said Okowa and PDP loyalists in the state have absolutely nothing to fear about in the 2019 elections, saying the people are wiser and more convinced that Senator Okowa has no rival come 2019.

He said the governor’s re-election in 2019 would be a smooth ride based on his giant strides in education, provision of infrastructure, empowerment, health, security, industrialisation and economic revival of the state, among others.
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Onuesoke maintained that the various developmental initiatives and empowerment programmes for which the people of Delta State have benefited speak volume of a man who should be trusted and not those engaging in empty promises and politics of deceits.
The former governorship aspirant argued that since assumption of office, Okowa has taken bold initiatives to reduce unemployment in the state with Skill Training and Entrepreneurship programme, STEP, and Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme, YAGEP, under the SMART AGENDA development blueprint.
According to him, “The Okowa administration has revived moribund industries like Bendel Steel among others to boost the economy of the state and thousands of youths have been trained and equipped to own their businesses in Delta state.
“With the productive engagement of the younger generation, incidents of youth restiveness, pipeline vandalism and all forms of economic sabotage and criminal tendencies have reduced. Okowa’s populist policies have endeared him to Deltans.

“He is a leader with tremendous goodwill across the three senatorial districts of the state. Okowa has no rival. He will emerge victorious in the 2019 governorship elections.”
He stated that the opposition parties n Delta State that would have giving Okowa little challenge are busy fighting within themselves on who will bear their party’s flag, stressing that the infighting within the opposition parties in the state has even made it easier for the governor to win in 2019.
Onuesoke emphasised that the people have seen government attending to their needs and the people he said are in total support towards returning the winning governor to consolidate the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people and the hallmark of good governance for which the state governor represents.

Okowa scores high in Stephen Keshi Stadium

By Hugo Odiogor

That Asaba Township Stadium, now named after a national hero, Stephen Keshi, was the venue of this year’s AITEO Cup final, the old Challenge Cup, comes with lots of historical antecedents and a critical milestone to the administration of Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

The stadium added another historical feat when it hosted a spectacular FA-Aiteo Cup final on October 26 as Enugu Rangers came from 3 goals down to defeat Kano Pillars 4 – 3 on penalties. This was the first competitive match at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, it was a thrilling encounter.

Enugu Rangers International returned to winning the Cup after a 35-year drought. The last time they won the cup was in 1981 under Coach Christian Chukwu. Before then, in 1978 final, Rangers fell 3-0 down against Bendel Insurance of Benin at the National Stadium, Lagos. It took three strikes from Chris Ogu, Henry Ogboi and Alkali Monidafe from the Felix Agbonifo, skippered Bendel Insurance FC, Benin City, to shock Enugu Rangers beyond belief.

In the old Midwest, when Dr Sam Ogbemudia was governor, apart from Insurance which was the most popular, there were other football clubs like the state-funded Vipers FC and Scorpions FC (an all-military football team, from the S & T Division in Benin City). The Police Machine FC , Benin City, AT & P from Sapele, Mac Demort F. C , NPA FC and Eselemo Diamonds from Warri, Asaba Textile Mill AsabaTex F. C.

There was Ika Rangers from Agbor.In fact Asabatex represented the state in 1975 and were brushed away by Enugu Rangers International. Dr. Okowa was among the young men who trekked to St Colombas Grammar School, Agbor, to watch Ika Rangers FC in action.

Suffice to say that Col. Ogbemudia recognised the exponential power and values of sports to unite and mobilise the people and he invested strategically in it. This paid off handsomely as Edo and Delta States became the dominant power in sports development. Delta state has won all but three editions of the National sports festivals.

It has produced so many sports men and women. Anioma area of the state has been part of this success story regardless of the lack of access to a sporting infrastructure. When Chief James Ibori came to power in 1999, he continued with the tradition of sports development.

While towns like Warri and Oghara and Ughelli could boast of fully developed stadia, some with covered roof and with tartan tracks, Asaba Township stadium exist in name at its gate. It had an indoor sports hall and fully walled fences.

It hosted inter-house sports for some secondary schools, community football competitions, march-past on national independence celebrations and religious events.

Suffice to say that the absence of such a facility killed the interest of people in this area in sports. The sense of alienation and marginalisation was total. The likes of Vivian Chukwuemeka moved to the UK.
Sports is one area where Delta State is blessed with abundant talents that can be developed for individual and team sports. It requires the existence of such infrastructure to actualise this cardinal aspect of human capital development.

There are prospects for the emergence of more sports men and women by harnessing the economic potentials of the STARS University and International Golf Course in Idumuje Ugboko and the existence of Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.

There is no doubt that setting up of the STARS University at Idumuje Ugboko and International Golf Course, just 55 km away from Asaba International Airport was a far sighted move by Dr. Okowa and Prince Ned Nwoko to tackle the challenges of youth development in Delta North senatorial district
What is required is to conceptualise a youth development programme in Aniomaland which produced the likes of Ms. Martha Jugah, Victor Oduah, Nduka Ugbade, Austin Okocha, Sunday Oliseh, Peter Konyegwachie, Emma Okocha, Ndubisi Okosieme and many others.

With the establishment of viable infrastructure like the Stephen Keshi Stadium there will be ready facility to train talents from the area. The location sporting events by the STARS University and other youth development programmes, there will be basis to produce sporting talents whose income will translate into invisible trade and boost foreign exchange earnings for the State.

Odiogor, a veteran journalist, writes from Lagos.

Okowa: Keeping Faith With Electoral Promises

By Augustine Avwode

At a lecture he delivered in Benin City, Edo State on Saturday, September 19, 2015, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, talked about the relationship between public office holders and the promises they made to the people while seeking for such offices.

The lecture was part of activities to mark the 83rd birthday of a two-time governor of the old Bendel State from which Delta and Edo were carved out, retired Gen. (Dr). Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.

Okowa, in the course of the lecture titled Towards Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria: The Role of Political Parties, declared that democracy will be an incomplete concept if politicians or office holders fail to keep their promises. This was how he put it to the admiration and applause from his audience:
“Democracy is advanced when elected political leaders fulfill the promises they made to their constituents during electioneering campaigns.

There is nothing worse than unfulfilled promises in a democratic system. When leaders act as if promises they made during campaigns do not matter, it erodes the trust and confidence of the people in the system. Political leaders at all levels must realise that promises are meant to be kept….That is the only way to maintain the trust and confidence that is necessary between the people and their leaders for sustainable democracy”.
Governor Okowa, then seized the occasion to intimate his audience with his campaign promises in Delta State.

“In Delta State, our administration came into power with the bold promise of prosperity for all hinged on a five-point agenda with the acronym S.M.A.R.T, which means: Strategic Wealth Creation and Provision of Jobs; Meaningful Peace Building Platforms for political/Social Stability; Agricultural Reforms and Accelerated Industrialisation; Relevant Health and Education Policies and Transformed Environment through Urban Renewal”.

He literally vowed to remain faithful in implementing them; “We will do all within our power to be faithful to this agenda”, he declared. For those who were privileged to hear Governor Okowa deliver the lecture, or those who read the report, the obvious question must have been whether, in the last ten months, Governor Okowa has been “faithful” to his agenda?

Put differently, has the Delta State chief executive been fulfilling the promises he made when he campaigned for office? Without a shred of doubt, or fear of contradiction, the answer is a straight forward and resounding YES, notwithstanding the fact that the administration had to contend with distractions that came its way in the form of electoral litigations for eight clear months.

The record so far indicates that for each of the five points that form the S.M.A.R.T agenda, Governor Okowa has kept faith in a way that has left even his critics standing in awe of him just as his admirers keep applauding and cheering him on. He has operated as if the last thing he does at bedtime is to ask himself what he has done to advance democracy in the outgoing day. And when he wakes up, he brings up what was left undone the previous day and promptly sets about working on them.
Of course, it goes without saying that the job and wealth creation are the bedrock of the S.M.A.R.T agenda with the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurial Programme (YAGEP) and Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Programme (STEP) as flagship programmes. Governor Okowa has through this initiative set the stage for the transformation of the lives of thousands of unemployed youths in Delta State between the ages of 18 and 35.

The wealth and job creation scheme has been strategically designed and tailored not just to tackle youth unemployment in the state but to also raise a new generation of entrepreneurs, who will be job creators and employers of labour themselves, thus giving meaning to the idea of prosperity for all.

When the scheme was launched on August 26, last year at Songhai, Amukpe in Sapele, pessimists probably thought it was one of “those programmes”. But by mid-January, 2016, the first set of 771 youths from across the three senatorial districts of the state graduated from the scheme. They have since been assisted with starter packs and settled. Last month, interviews were conducted for a fresh set of trainees for 2016. And, hopefully, it can only get better.

How about Okowa’s Relevant Health and Education Policies? When he assumed office, he focused on overhauling the state’s technical education and associated infrastructure in the firm belief that the world of today need an educational system which is capable of imbuing individuals with requisite skills needed for self employment and creating jobs for others. Today, three technical schools in the state – Agbor, Ofagbe and Sapele, one from each senatorial district have undergone unprecedented renovation and facelift preparatory to launching full time into thisvision.

Governor Okowa, during the state’s education summit in January this year in Asaba, has this to say: “Our goal is to provide the best education available for every student with strong emphasis on science, vocational and technical education, as we hope to harness the power of technology to empower our children with rigorous, high quality, customized education necessary for them to thrive in today’s dynamic market place”.

The health sector has also witnessed massive re-construction and rehabilitation works in the General Hospitals at Patani and Abavo. Early in February, Governor Okowa, as part of efforts to ensure universal health coverage (UHC) for the people, signed into law the Delta State Health Insurance Commission (DSHIC) bill. This is one sure way to provide support for the majority to access qualitative healthcare without the attendant financial burden. He had had the bill prepared well ahead of his inauguration in May 2015. What passion for the welfare of the people of Delta State!

Acting Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, Femi Akingbade, who witnessed the signing of the bill, described the governor as “a trail blazer”. He said Okowa has put Delta in the record book as the second state after Lagos to establish a statutory agency for health insurance.

In terms of infrastructure, Governor is building new roads and rehabilitating old ones across the state. Last month, Governor Okowa, twice embarked on a full day inspection of projects across the state with indigenes applauding and cheering his passion and vision. One cannot but put on record, among others, the pace at which the reconstruction work to standardize the Asaba Airport is going; the resumed activities on the Ughelli – Asaba Expressway and the decision to review the BRT Project in Warri – Effrun to give way to an Expressway.
Worthy of note is the fact that there has been a reasonable peaceful atmosphere across the state. Skirmishes are often dealt with in the bud before they escalate through established channels. Importantly, as a firm believer and advocate of politics of unity and inclusiveness rather than a show of power, Governor Okowa has significantly reconfigured the political atmosphere in the state in such a way that all sections have a sense of belonging and consider themselves as critical stakeholders in the realization of the Delta Project through the S.M.A.R.T agenda as a result of his even appointments and distribution of projects across the three senatorial districts.

Time and space constraints will not allow one to continue all day. But suffice to say that in Governor Okowa, Delta State has been blessed with a man who promises and looks upon God to help him fulfil such promises without fail.
Avwode, Special Assistant on Media to Governor Okowa, wrote from Asaba.

Okowa Says Prayers Will Make God Intervene In The Affairs Of Nigeria

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Christians to consistently pray for God to intervene in the affairs of Nigeria, saying there is nothing that is impossible before God.
Governor Okowa made the call today (08/11/18) at the 2018 edition of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Day celebration which had as theme, "Contend For The Faith" held at the Oleh Township Stadium, Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.
According Governor Okowa, "this is the time to work with God, time to spend a lot of time with God, every Christian should pray for Nigeria for the will of God to manifest; we must be brave, we must pray consistently; there is lot of challenges but, we must call on the power of God because, God is able to stop the herdsmen."

"We need a stronger voice from the Federal Government for the issue of herdsmen to be reduced to the baresst minimum, until that strong directive comes in, the security agencies may not be able to do more than it is currently doing," the governor said, asserting, "this is the time to trust in God, if as Christians, we genuinely and collectively continue to call on His name, He will answer us and intervene in the affairs of our country."

The governor commended CAN for organising the event, and urged Christians to live holy and exemplary life.

He assured CAN of his administration partnership, adding, "pray for us as a government, pray for us as a state, pray for our nation, Nigeria; the church should come out in their numbers to do the will of God as we go into elections, as we pray for our nation, we should back it with action; we shall be willing partners with the Church, just imagine a state without the Church of God?"

Guest speaker at the occasion, Arch-Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma of Enugu Diocese of the Anglican Communion, observed, "Governor Okowa is working, so no vacancy in Delta State Government House in 2019; the Church should not lose the essence of prayers, the word of God, you must hold the Bible always; if you are a man of God and you are not saying the truth, God will punish you, avoid indecent dressing in church, our church is not club house; we must support our Christian leaders, but, the Christian leaders must listen; stop giving awards to thieves."

Chairman of CAN, Delta State, Apostle Okorote in an address, said, "the theme of this year's celebration could not be more appropriate than a time like this when Nigerian Christians and pastors are hunted, kidnapped and killed night and day by kidnappers, explosive wielding men of Boko Haram insurgency and AK 47 carrying herdsmen under a Federal Government that is either powerless or reluctant to tackle the genocide; a time when certificate of occupancy is denied churches in some parts of Northern Nigeria and carrying a Bible is almost an offence in those states; a time when some states pull down church buildings without any offence; a time when Christian ethics and morals are being thrown to the pot and replaced by immorality,"

"We have enjoyed peace these three and half years in Delta State because, God gave us a man after His own heart, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; the Church has prayed for Dr Okowa to get a second term but, let me remind us that INEC only knows how to count votes, so, get your PVC and support your prayers with it," he said.

Prayers were offered for different intentions at the occasion which was attended by an array of church leaders and their members.

Okowa Mourns Businessman, Sonny Odogwu

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has extended his heartfelt commiserations to the family of foremost industrialist, businessman and elder statesman, Chief Sonny Iwedike Odogwu, (CFR), who passed on on Monday November 5, 2018 at 87 years.

The Governor also condoled with The Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Chike Edozien and the Asaba people on the death of one of their most illustrious sons.

Okowa expressed his sorrow via a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Aniagwu in Asaba on Tuesday.

It reads: "Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has received with immense sadness, news of the passing away of one of Nigeria’s leading entrepreneurs and philanthropist, Chief Sonny Odogwu, (CFR).

"Governor Okowa extends sincere condolences to members of Odogwu’s family as well as his friends, associates, business partners within and outside Nigeria, and the people of Asaba where he held the traditional title of Ide-Ahaba of Asaba.

"The Governor shares in their pain and sorrow as they mourn the late Chief Sonny Odogwu who was also honoured in his lifetime with the Zik Leadership Award in Business in 1997, the World Bank Group-IMF African Club Prize in Business Leadership in 1998 as Africa’s best businessman and Lifetime Award as an outstanding personality of the decade by The Anioma Professionals Forum in Lagos in 2017.

"The Governor believes that Chief Sonny Odogwu will also be long remembered and honoured as a very generous philanthropist whose US based Non-Governmental Organization; “Africa NGO” supports more than 260 programmers in 27 African countries. In addition about 35 nations on the African continent have benefited from direct “Africa” assistance solely sponsored by Chief Odogwu,"

The statement further said "Chief Odogwu equally demonstrated his large heart in Nigeria by creating and supporting an educational endowment fund for the education of the under privileged students in secondary schools where more than 3500 have benefitted from this scheme.

"Governor Okowa urges members of the Odogwu family, the Asagba in Council and all others who mourn the very successful businessman to be comforted by the knowledge that he lived a very worthy and fulfilled life, and left a legacy of great entrepreneurial achievements for his children to build on,"

Governor Okowa prays that God Almighty will grant Chief Odogwu’s soul peaceful and eternal rest.

Okowa Condemns Attack On Ekweremadu, Calls For Full Investigation

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has condemned in strongest terms, the alleged attempt on the life of Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who was attacked alongside members of his family by assailants, at his official residence in Apo, Abuja on Tuesday morning.

Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu in Asaba on Tuesday decried the attack on the lawmaker, describing it as barbaric.

The Governor noted that the attacks on the Senator have assumed an alarming dimension and called on security agencies to carry out full investigation into the Tuesday’s latest attack on the lawmaker’s residence to unmask those behind the alleged assassination plot.

“This is not the first attack on the distinguished Senator yet no culprit have been brought to book in connection with the attacks. However, we must thank God that one of the attackers was apprehended and is therefore expected to aid the police in their investigations to unravel those behind the failed move to harm the key opposition leader”.

He called on President Muhammadu Buhari to as a matter of urgency direct the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim Idris to set up a full scale probe into the attacks.

“The Governor urged the Deputy Senate President not to be wary as Nigerians are solidly behind him and will continue to pray for his safety and that of his family,” the statement read.

Okowa Congratulates Azinge On NIALS Fellowship Award

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa on Tuesday congratulated Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN on his confirment as Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (FNIALS).

Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu in Asaba on Tuesday, said he wasn't surprised Prof. Azinge was recognised for his sterling contributions to the advancement of the legal profession both nationally and internationally.

"As a former Director-General of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), you dedicated yourself to the course of hardwork, professionalism, patriotism and unparreled commitment to the promotion of excellence in the legal profession.

"It is therefore not a surprise that you have been found worthy to be appointed a Fellow of Nigeria's Apex institution for research and advanced legal studies.

The statement further described Prof Azinge as "a distinguished scholar and legal luminary of national and international repute, and a leading authority in Constitutional and Electoral Law. This was well shown by his stewardship as the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies from 2009 to 2014, where he pursued vigorously with enormous strides and mastermind innovations, the mission of the institute to make it “world class” where he, came up with the motto “Knowledge that makes the difference”.

"As the past Director General of the Institute, Prof. Azinge sort to fill the knowledge gap and further seek to redress the shortage of skilled and motivated drafters in the country by introducing the PhD Postgraduate programme in Legislative Drafting at the Institute in 2009.

"In recognition of Professor Epiphany Azinge's example of thoroughness and complete dedication to duty, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien, CFR, The Asagba of Asaba, bestowed on him the chieftaincy title, the ‘Okilolo of Asaba’ along with his beautiful wife Dr (Mrs) Valerie Azinge, SAN, the ‘Odoziaku of Asaba’ in 2011, thus, elevating him to the prestigious council of the Olinzele Asaba in Delta State.

"As Deltans, we are proud of your lofty achievements as a great ambassador of the State and we join your family and well wishers in praying to God almighty to continue to bless you with divine health, wisdom and strength for greater achievements". the statement added

When Okowa Preached Safe Motherhood In Bayelsa
By FIDELIS EGUGBO

TODAY, let us go Afghanistanism, but is it really Afghanistanism or realistic peep into what African women go through in the course of child birth?

From the entrance of the venue, women in different stages of pregnancy were seen exhibiting different moods; some feeling uncomfortable to sit on the seat provided, some where on the floor – with legs stretched out, while most of them managed to sit on the seats provided.

Of course, it is not an easy task having more than 1, 000 pregnant women gathered at the same venue; but such was witnessed last Wednesday in Yenogoa, the fast-developing capital city of Bayelsa State where the state government launched Safe Motherhood Scheme.

In the practice of Journalism profession, “going Afghanistanism" simply means writing about what is happening in other places instead of one's area. Though, the Bayelsa State government launched the scheme to grow the population of the state, a critical Journalist will applaud the scheme as it will be a form of campaign of sort against traditional child birth.

Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has never hidden the fact that his mother is from Delta State and that he sees the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as his brother who is delivering in practical terms, dividends of democracy.

It was, therefore, not surprising that he invited Governor Okowa to be the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion being a medical doctor by profession. Again, due to the successes recorded by Governor Okowa administration through the Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, Dickson administration understudied the implementation in Delta State and commenced its operation in Bayelsa State, but, the activities of Wednesday; the launch of the Safe Motherhood Scheme, was a great addition to the health insurance scheme.

According to Governor Dickson, "a number of the causes of death that we attribute to all sorts of things to are attributable to lack of knowledge; we need to enlighten our people. We are giving N3, 000 allowance for every pregnant woman in Bayelsa State but, it is compulsory you (pregnant woman) have to register in recognised medical centre. Once test confirms that you are pregnant, you are entitled to N3, 000 maintenance allowance every month”.

Governor Dickson stressed that, regular attendance at the healthcare provider by pregnant women, “will determine if you are entitled to the N3, 000, we value your safety and that of your unborn child”.

Of course, paying N3, 000 monthly to pregnant women and nursing mothers to a large extent, would give a great boost to women using modern medical facilities rather than engaging traditional birth attendants. To ensure that the right thing is done, regular attendance at the healthcare provider is the yardstick to earn the N3, 000, so, going to clinic regularly will discourage visits to the traditional birth attendants which is still very common in Sub-Saharan Africa.

We are all aware that Bayelsa State is among states in the country with least population. So, with this development, the population of the state is expected to grow astronomically. For instance, the 1, 000 women who were presented cash stipend of N3, 000 each, last Wednesday in nine months time will add at least 1, 000 people to the population of the state and expectedly too, more pregnant women will register in the scheme.

While it is important that for political reasons, the government of Bayelsa State decides to grow the population of the state, strong projection should also be made to upgrade the facilities in the state, there should be strong moves to build industries to create job opportunities as well as development of new towns and cities, because, if there is no commensurate preparation to cater for the expected population, there is bound to be an increase in crime rate, which may spill over to its neighbouring states, including Delta.

Governor Okowa, as a medical doctor, is passionate about the health of the people; as a Senator, he is the brain behind the Nigerian Health Act and on emergence as the Governor of Delta State, he, through a bill sponsored by the state government, the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme was born.

So, Governor Okowa was on a familiar turf when he went to Bayelsa State as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of the Safe Motherhood Scheme.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Okowa said “the programme we are launching today is a very laudable programme for the fact that the pregnant women are exposed to the state health insurance scheme and will be paid. This is very noble.

The narrative about Nigeria when it comes to mortality rate is not a very good one," Governor Okowa said while calling on the Federal Government to release fund for the full implementation of the National Health Act as such would enable the state governments to release their counterpart funds for health facilities to easily be at the reach of the people.
Bearing in mind the fact that the Safe Motherhood Scheme would give boost to more pregnancies, Governor Okowa urged women to ensure they engage in proper child spacing, stating, " there is need to have birth spacing, it is important for the health of the woman."

Certainly, ensuring a healthy people must be encouraged by all because, a healthy nation is, a wealthy nation. That is why any one who is involved in boosting the health of the people should be applauded.

(As published on page 10 of The Pointer Newspaper of today, November 4, 2018.)

GOV. IFEANYI OKOWA; CONFIDENCE REPOSED, JUDICIOUSLY JUSTIFIED

BY CHRIS ODIA

The approach to assumption of political office through campaigns, town hall meetings, presentation of manifestos, lobbying, among others usually set up a ‘tall ambition’ for politicians when they finally assume office as elected officers.

This is expected because they have to square up to the promises they made to the people viz a viz, the financial situation on ground.

On assumption of office therefore, the task to fulfill such political trust bestowed on the elected officer becomes germane if he would continue to sustain the followership of majority of the people. On the other hand, with either a vibrant or uncoordinated opposition within the political environment, every of his policy is roundly criticized and propaganda becomes the order of the day.

Painfully, he somewhat becomes the ‘whipping object’ for political desperados who in their quest to shore up some political relevance resort to namedropping or shameful media presentations, aimed at castigating the policies of the incumbent; albeit with little or no fact. In fact, every Tom, Dick and Harry seeks for a debate with the elected officer.

The administration of H.E Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has received its fair share of such political dimension that has bedeviled our polity.

Though one striking fact has remained, which is that, the Governor is unfazed with such theatricals because he continues to deliver on his mandate while paying less attention to ‘Bad belle Politics’.

Not a few Deltans are convinced that the Governor’s works are enough to secure a second tenure for him. Without mincing words, his campaign strategy has been that of showing his works without casting aspersions on personalities. A rare bred Politician!

Not only does he show his works, he creates warm atmosphere for robust interaction with sections of personalities and stakeholders, through town hall meetings, visitations etc. His score card is presented to them and on their part, they make request on areas of interest where they expect the Governor to direct his attention within their areas.

Such interactions could best be described as initiating policies based on Needs Assessment. Little wonder, that though not a noisy politician, nor one who seem to fight political peers, not even those in opposition; he has continued to garner more supporters both within and across the State. The recent gale of defections in the State are obvious testimonies.

His initiatives in diverse sectors have seen World Bank partner with his job creation model, he has severally received diplomats along with foreign businessmen who have been drawn to the State by the Governor’s demonstration of capacity and administrative foresight.

His systematic approach towards tackling moribund projects and infrastructural development across the State is legendary.

The working-Governor has received commendation from various national and international institutions/Bodies for his foremost initiatives. Some of these initiatives were assessed to be Landmarks because they are pacesetters for other States to emulate.

Though in the opposition to the Government at the centre, Mr. President named Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as a member of the National Food Security Council.

The series of endorsements so far received from the three senatorial districts, corporate bodies, professional bodies, youth associations, political leaders among others, despite his reticent approach to politicking, leaves no sensible Deltan in doubt that his achievements within these 3years running, cut across the length and breadth of the State and majority of the people want him to continue.

H.E. Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has judiciously justified the confidence reposed on him, when Deltans across board rallied round him in 2014/15. He is on the move again for a second tenure, let us return him.

Ekwueme! Our Choice 2019.

DAME OKOWA TO FLAG OFF ADOLESCENT NUTRITION PROGRAMME NOVEMBER 8

Delta State Government in collaboration with the United Nations Children Education Fund (UNICEF) is set to launch adolescent nutrition programme.

Disclosing this today during a press briefing, the Chairman of the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Isioma Okobah said that the programme was targeted at young persons from 10-19 years.

She said that the program, which is a five-year intervention program by UNICEF, would be flagged off by the wife of the state governor and UNICEF Nutrition Champion of the state, Dame Edith Okowa on Thursday, 8th November, 2018.

The agency chairman revealed that Delta State alongside Katsina State were the two state in the federation picked by UNICEF to pilot the Adolescent Nutrition Program, adding the Governor Health for All Deltans (HeFAD) policy choice of the state was necessitated by the state governor’s Health for All Deltans policy, largely influenced the choice of Delta.

Dr. Okobah appreciated the wife of the governor for her commitment to healthcare mostly during her medical outreach and also commended UNICEF for partnering the state in driving the HeFAD Agenda.

The Executive Director of the Agency, Dr Jude Winful-Orieke, said that the intervention program, which is the first in Nigeria, was to address the prevalence of anaemia and malnutrition among adolescent.

He said three local government areas, Ika North East, Isoko South and Ethiope West would serve as pilot LGA in the state while Okpe would serve as control, added that the LGAs were picked from a baseline survey conducted and that the intervention would be with iron folate, zinc and deworming supplements.

Okowa, Uduaghan, Ibori Mourn As Remains Of William Ibori Is Interred
... He Was A Father To All Of Us - Okowa

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, his predecessor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan and former Governor James Ibori today (02/11/18) mourned as the remains of High Chief Williams Ibori was laid to rest saying, he was a peacemaker and stabiliser.
Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Peter Obi, Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, former Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igbenedion, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor Benjamin Elue and personalities from different parts of the world attended the day of tribute held at the Oghara Township Stadium before the internment took place at the residence of the deceased

According to Governor Okowa, "together, we mourn this afternoon, we mourn because, he died suddenly, Oghara is our political base, and he was a father to all of us who visit our leader, Chief James Ibori in Oghara; he played a major role in my becoming the Governor of Delta State."

"I will forever remain grateful to Chief William Ibori; he was a great man and he was a member of the Delta State Advisory Council; we know that he has played his role as a father and a community leader; we pray that God will console the family," Governor Okowa said.
To Dr Uduaghan, the deceased "was a pillar in this state, a great adviser, and severally, we called on him to settle dispute in any part of Delta State.."

Former Governor Ibori in an emotion-laden speech, said, "Uncle William as I used to call him was a father to all of us; it was indeed very sad that we stand here today preparing to lay him to rest, his death was a big shock
God knows best but we would have wished that he gave us some notice."
"God called him and he answered the call like every one of us will do and on this occasion, mine is to wish him well and to thank him for what he was to everyone of us," the former Governor stated.
In a related development,Governor Okowa has urged Nigerians to live worthy life and contribute to the development of their communities.
The governor made the call yesterday (02/11/18) at the funeral service of Senator David Dafinone held at Bethel Baptist Church, Sapele, Delta State.
According to the governor, "live a life that is worthy, a life that will touch other people's lives positively bearing in mind that after you have gone, you will only be remembered by what you did when you were alive."

"In whatever we do, we should consider the feeling of others, we must make impact in our communities because, people can only love you when you have made impact on the life of people back home," the governor said, adding, "I must condole the family of late Senator Dafinone, it is my hope that the Lord will receive his soul; we are very proud of him; he touched a lot of lives and played a lot of roles to grow the accounting profession and the roles he played in the building of the Palace of the Orodje of Okpe cannot be forgotten," Governor Okowa who attended the burial ceremony accompanied by political aides stated.

Bishop Diamond Emuobo in a sermon at the ceremony, urged Christians to make the society better through their actions.

Okowa, Dickson Call For Efforts To Curb Infant Mortality Rates
... As Bayelsa Launches Safe Motherhood Scheme

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, his Bayelsa State counterpart, Hon. Seriake Dickson today (31/10/18), canvassed for efforts to curb infant mortality and morbidity rate in the country.

The duo made the call at the launching of Bayelsa State Safe Motherhood Scheme at Yenogoa, Bayelsa State.

Governor Okowa, who was the special guest at the occasion said, "the programme we are launching today is a very laudable programme for the fact that the pregnant women are exposed to the state health insurance scheme and will be paid; this is very noble”.

"The narrative about Nigeria when it comes to mortality rate is not very good," Governor Okowa said while calling on the Federal Government to release fund for the full implementation of the National Health Act as such would enable the state governments to release their counterpart funds for health facilities to easily be at the reach of the people.

The governor also, called for proper birth spacing among women, stating, " there is need to have birth spacing, it is important for the health of the woman."

Governor Dickson had in his address, observed that the launch of the Safe Motherhood Scheme was very important for the health of mothers and child.

He disclosed that, "a number of the causes of death that we attribute to all sorts of things are attributable to lack of knowledge, we need to enlighten our people; we are giving N3, 000 allowance for every pregnant woman in Bayelsa State but, it is compulsory you (pregnant woman) have to register in recognised medical centre; once test confirms that you are pregnant, you are entitled to N3, 000 maintainance allowance every month”.

Governor Dickson stressed that, regular attendance at the healthcare provider by pregnant women, “Will determine if you are entitled to the N3, 000, we value your safety and that of your unborn child”.

Hon. Dickson commended Governor Okowa for his wonderful performance in the Delta State health sector, asserting, "the punishment for doing well, is more work and all of us are joining the good people of Delta State to say, you (Governor Okowa) will work for the people of Delta State for another four years."

Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Kabiru Turaki, former Minister of Special Duties, said Governor Dickson has restored the confidence of the people of Bayelsa State in governance; he ommended the governor for developing critical infrastructure in the state.

FLOOD: Okowa Returns to Holding Camp

...Says Plans Are On To Resettle Displaced Persons

AS the flood which ravaged coastal communities in Delta State continues to recede, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said plans are on to resettle people who took shelter at different Holding Camps set up for displaced persons in the state.

Governor Okowa who paid an unscheduled visit to the Holding Camps In Patani, Patani local government area of Delta State yesterday (31/10/18), expressed satisfaction that the Camp served its purpose of providing shelter for people who were sacked by flood.

According to the governor, "I am happy that those who are in the Camps are happy and living as members of one family."

"For obvious reasons, we will not disclose our plans to resettle our people in their different communities, but, I can tell you that is the next stage we are preparing seriously for, because, the flood is receding," the governor said.

He continued, "there is no complain in the Camp, the people are well catered for and those who are in the impacted communities but, did not move to the Camps are still receiving food items."

"You heard the students confirm that they were always fed before resuming for class at 8 am; that is very good because, the children are well engaged in educational activities while in the camp, so, they will not loose much academically," Governor Okowa accompanied by political aides stated.

Chairman of Patani local government area, Mr Perez Omoun conducted Governor Okowa round the camp which was well fitted with medical facilities and personnel.

Okowa: Securing Electoral Points Through Project Delivery

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

IN a democratic environment, what the people want is good governance. Once there is good governance, no one cares about who is holding what position or where the person is from.
Following the loss of the Presidency to the All Progressive Congress (APC) by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections, some members of the PDP, believing that it was over for their political party, pitched their tent with the APC. Such scenario played out in different parts of the country.
As such, some members of the PDP in Delta State where not left out in seeking for greener pasture or political relevance in the APC. But, President Mohammadu Buhari did not mince words when he categorically said that he will spread dividends of democracy based on percentage of votes he received. It was, therefore, not a surprise that more than 80 per cent of members of the PDP who moved to the APC did not get patronage either in terms of receiving political appointments or contract from the APC-led Federal Government
In Delta State, the movement of some of the PDP members to APC was celebrated but, the Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa was aware that what the people needed is good government, not political party.
Ordinarily, bearing in mind that the APC is the ruling political party at the federal levels, there would have been jitters as to how the election will play out in Delta State, but, one can confidently say that the resolve of President Buhari to dish out dividends of democracy using the percentage of votes he received as yardstick became a bonus to the PDP in the state.
More than three years of the APC – led government at the federal level, no Deltan can point to a project initiated by the Federal Government in Delta State. Federal infrastructures like roads have been abandoned in the state.
The obvious lack of concern to the provision of infrastructure in the state has given a great boost to the PDP and by implication, Governor Okowa's administration. Governor Okowa, as a grassroots politician capitalised on the ‘neglect’ by the Federal Government to engage in massive delivery of dividends of democracy.
In terms of “stomach infrastructure", a lot of Deltans are holding one political office or the other. One can authoritatively say that there is no ward in Delta State that does not have a politician who is on the payroll of the Delta State Government. Also, there is no local government that the Governor Okowa-led administration has not executed projects. Though, it is not yet uhuru, Deltans are feeling the impact of governance; so, while even an Okada rider can easily count the achievements of Governor Okowa administration in Delta State, all that they do concerning federal government responsibilities is to complain. In some cases, the complaint become so much that Governor Okowa had no option than to intervene, after all, it is Deltans that bears the burden of the failure or inactivity of the federal government in the state.
As such, it is no longer news that contracts are awarded for the construction of federal roads by the Governor Okowa administration. In terms of security, Governor Okowa’s administration has presented security vans to security agencies and in some cases, built office accommodation for them. Even, most of the agencies of the Federal Government operating in the state owe their sustenance to the Delta State Government.
Most of the politicians who left the PDP to the APC, bearing in mind that the popularity of the APC is going down, returned to their original or home party, the PDP. Last month, a rally was held at the Ughelli Township Stadium to receive some of them and most of those who spoke at that rally attributed their coming back to the PDP to hunger, saying, things became worse for them in the political party which has the broom as its symbol.
Last Tuesday, in what seem like having the last batch of the members of the PDP who moved to the APC returning to the PDP, a rally was held at Kwale and former Commissioner for Information in Delta State who represented the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Mercy Almona-Isei returned to the PDP.
Surprisingly, bearing in mind that some of those who returned from the APC to the PDP are still regarded and accorded the leadership respect, they are not referred to as decampees. At the Kwale rally, to prove that APC fold has greatly depleted, running mate to Olorogun Otega Emerhor, the APC governorship candidate in the 2015 general elections, Chief V.O.T. Abanum also, returned to the PDP. One cannot forget to mention the fact that Sir Fidelis Okennmor Tilije, a renowned philanthropist who severally, was the running mate to Chief Great Ogboru is currently serving as the Commissioner for Water Resources in the Governor Okowa-led administration.
Those who spoke at the rally said it would be unappreciative of them not to join the PDP in solidarity with the good works of Governor Okowa for Deltans. Hon. Gabriel Mordi who was a chieftain of the APC in Oshimili South local government area, succinctly said that Governor Okowa was wooing members of the opposition political parties with avalanche of projects. He tore the membership card of the APC at the rally. He had no option because in Oshimili South local government area, the Stephen Keshi Stadium (formerly, Asaba Township Stadium) which used to bubble in the 1970s has finally come back to life after decades of abandonment – courtesy of Governor Okowa's administration; in Oshimili South, flood which crippled socio-economic activities at DLA, Jesus Saves Roads and other parts of Asaba have been tackled through multi-billion naira storm drainage projects, a multi-billion naira Central Secretariat is under construction in the ancient city at the bank of the River Niger. So, while opposition is good to keep the ruling party on its toes, clear soul-searching will make one to say, ‘Governor Okowa, if you could do this in four years, another four years will not be a waste.’
One can recall that Chief Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia (17 September 1932 – 9 March 2017) endeared himself to the heart of the people when as the Military Governor (1967–1975) of the Mid-West State, later renamed Bendel State, which later became Delta and Edo States with quality projects executed in the nooks and crannies of the region. Till date, one can easily point at achievements of Chief or General Ogbemudia as some people will like to address him.
So, one can say that Senator Dr Okowa, being aware of the enduring legacies of General Ogbemudia who was respected till he breathed his last and as a smart governor, believes that the only way people will cast their votes in a democratic setting without looking at religion, ethnic group, academic qualifications, political leaning or whatever, is through the delivery of dividends of democracy.
Students of history could recall that Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 election though, was a Moslem, he was voted massively for by Christians and Moslems because, he was not just a philanthropist but, an industrialist who was putting food on the tables of many people. So, one language that the voter's card understands so much, is, performance.
Apparently confident that he has a lot of achievements in his kitty, Governor Okowa at that rally at Kwale, challenged his opponents to a debate.
“We are praying for debate; they will have nothing to talk about, I am in Delta State, I only left when I went to Ibadan to study Medicine, my opponents will have nothing to say, so they will run away from debate,” Governor Okowa said.
From his statement, it was obvious that he knows his opponents, where they are from and their pedigree and he is very sure that while he has been with the people all these years, sharing in their pains and their joy, his opponents were out of the state contributing to the development of other states’ economies.
The eye-opener was when he described his opponents as people who only visit the state when there is election and leave the state till another election year.
From what is playing out in the political scene, the electorate are certainly wiser and cannot be hoodwinked by sentiments; they will cast their votes based on conscience and ready to take responsibility for their actions.
I see Nigerian democracy evolving to situation where political office holders will become more accountable and be conscious of the fact that their actions or inaction may affect their electoral values.

(As published on page 10 of The Pointer Newspaper of Sunday, October 28, 2019.)

Okowa: Securing Electoral Points Through Project Delivery

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

IN a democratic environment, what the people want is good governance. Once there is good governance, no one cares about who is holding what position or where the person is from.
Following the loss of the Presidency to the All Progressive Congress (APC) by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections, some members of the PDP, believing that it was over for their political party, pitched their tent with the APC. Such scenario played out in different parts of the country.
As such, some members of the PDP in Delta State where not left out in seeking for greener pasture or political relevance in the APC. But, President Mohammadu Buhari did not mince words when he categorically said that he will spread dividends of democracy based on percentage of votes he received. It was, therefore, not a surprise that more than 80 per cent of members of the PDP who moved to the APC did not get patronage either in terms of receiving political appointments or contract from the APC-led Federal Government
In Delta State, the movement of some of the PDP members to APC was celebrated but, the Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa was aware that what the people needed is good government, not political party.
Ordinarily, bearing in mind that the APC is the ruling political party at the federal levels, there would have been jitters as to how the election will play out in Delta State, but, one can confidently say that the resolve of President Buhari to dish out dividends of democracy using the percentage of votes he received as yardstick became a bonus to the PDP in the state.
More than three years of the APC – led government at the federal level, no Deltan can point to a project initiated by the Federal Government in Delta State. Federal infrastructures like roads have been abandoned in the state.
The obvious lack of concern to the provision of infrastructure in the state has given a great boost to the PDP and by implication, Governor Okowa's administration. Governor Okowa, as a grassroots politician capitalised on the ‘neglect’ by the Federal Government to engage in massive delivery of dividends of democracy.
In terms of “stomach infrastructure", a lot of Deltans are holding one political office or the other. One can authoritatively say that there is no ward in Delta State that does not have a politician who is on the payroll of the Delta State Government. Also, there is no local government that the Governor Okowa-led administration has not executed projects. Though, it is not yet uhuru, Deltans are feeling the impact of governance; so, while even an Okada rider can easily count the achievements of Governor Okowa administration in Delta State, all that they do concerning federal government responsibilities is to complain. In some cases, the complaint become so much that Governor Okowa had no option than to intervene, after all, it is Deltans that bears the burden of the failure or inactivity of the federal government in the state.
As such, it is no longer news that contracts are awarded for the construction of federal roads by the Governor Okowa administration. In terms of security, Governor Okowa’s administration has presented security vans to security agencies and in some cases, built office accommodation for them. Even, most of the agencies of the Federal Government operating in the state owe their sustenance to the Delta State Government.
Most of the politicians who left the PDP to the APC, bearing in mind that the popularity of the APC is going down, returned to their original or home party, the PDP. Last month, a rally was held at the Ughelli Township Stadium to receive some of them and most of those who spoke at that rally attributed their coming back to the PDP to hunger, saying, things became worse for them in the political party which has the broom as its symbol.
Last Tuesday, in what seem like having the last batch of the members of the PDP who moved to the APC returning to the PDP, a rally was held at Kwale and former Commissioner for Information in Delta State who represented the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Mercy Almona-Isei returned to the PDP.
Surprisingly, bearing in mind that some of those who returned from the APC to the PDP are still regarded and accorded the leadership respect, they are not referred to as decampees. At the Kwale rally, to prove that APC fold has greatly depleted, running mate to Olorogun Otega Emerhor, the APC governorship candidate in the 2015 general elections, Chief V.O.T. Abanum also, returned to the PDP. One cannot forget to mention the fact that Sir Fidelis Okennmor Tilije, a renowned philanthropist who severally, was the running mate to Chief Great Ogboru is currently serving as the Commissioner for Water Resources in the Governor Okowa-led administration.
Those who spoke at the rally said it would be unappreciative of them not to join the PDP in solidarity with the good works of Governor Okowa for Deltans. Hon. Gabriel Mordi who was a chieftain of the APC in Oshimili South local government area, succinctly said that Governor Okowa was wooing members of the opposition political parties with avalanche of projects. He tore the membership card of the APC at the rally. He had no option because in Oshimili South local government area, the Stephen Keshi Stadium (formerly, Asaba Township Stadium) which used to bubble in the 1970s has finally come back to life after decades of abandonment – courtesy of Governor Okowa's administration; in Oshimili South, flood which crippled socio-economic activities at DLA, Jesus Saves Roads and other parts of Asaba have been tackled through multi-billion naira storm drainage projects, a multi-billion naira Central Secretariat is under construction in the ancient city at the bank of the River Niger. So, while opposition is good to keep the ruling party on its toes, clear soul-searching will make one to say, ‘Governor Okowa, if you could do this in four years, another four years will not be a waste.’
One can recall that Chief Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia (17 September 1932 – 9 March 2017) endeared himself to the heart of the people when as the Military Governor (1967–1975) of the Mid-West State, later renamed Bendel State, which later became Delta and Edo States with quality projects executed in the nooks and crannies of the region. Till date, one can easily point at achievements of Chief or General Ogbemudia as some people will like to address him.
So, one can say that Senator Dr Okowa, being aware of the enduring legacies of General Ogbemudia who was respected till he breathed his last and as a smart governor, believes that the only way people will cast their votes in a democratic setting without looking at religion, ethnic group, academic qualifications, political leaning or whatever, is through the delivery of dividends of democracy.
Students of history could recall that Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 election though, was a Moslem, he was voted massively for by Christians and Moslems because, he was not just a philanthropist but, an industrialist who was putting food on the tables of many people. So, one language that the voter's card understands so much, is, performance.
Apparently confident that he has a lot of achievements in his kitty, Governor Okowa at that rally at Kwale, challenged his opponents to a debate.
“We are praying for debate; they will have nothing to talk about, I am in Delta State, I only left when I went to Ibadan to study Medicine, my opponents will have nothing to say, so they will run away from debate,” Governor Okowa said.
From his statement, it was obvious that he knows his opponents, where they are from and their pedigree and he is very sure that while he has been with the people all these years, sharing in their pains and their joy, his opponents were out of the state contributing to the development of other states’ economies.
The eye-opener was when he described his opponents as people who only visit the state when there is election and leave the state till another election year.
From what is playing out in the political scene, the electorate are certainly wiser and cannot be hoodwinked by sentiments; they will cast their votes based on conscience and ready to take responsibility for their actions.
I see Nigerian democracy evolving to situation where political office holders will become more accountable and be conscious of the fact that their actions or inaction may affect their electoral values.

(As published on page 10 of The Pointer Newspaper of Sunday, October 28, 2019.)