As Nigeria commemorated its 65th Independence Anniversary, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, delivered a powerful call to action, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, justice, fairness, and equity as the cornerstones of a stronger, more prosperous nation. His message, which echoed from a sacred pulpit to a ceremonial ground, underscored the resilience of Nigeria’s people and the divine grace that has sustained the nation through decades of challenges. Beyond rhetoric, Oborevwori’s administration is backing its vision with tangible actions—ranging from infrastructure development and healthcare reforms to environmental protection and sports empowerment, including the donation of four buses to Warri Wolves and Delta Queens football clubs.
A Call for Unity and Sacrifice
The Independence Day celebrations in Delta State began with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Asaba. Governor Oborevwori used the occasion to reflect on Nigeria’s journey, acknowledging the political, economic, and security hurdles the nation has faced since independence. He expressed gratitude to God for preserving Nigeria’s unity and urged citizens to take responsibility for building the nation of their dreams.
“Independence was born out of a vision of hope, and we must continue to build on the sacrifices of our founding fathers,” Oborevwori declared. He emphasized that Nigeria’s reconstruction is a collective task, not one for foreigners. “This country will not be rebuilt by outsiders. It is we, Nigerians, who will rebuild it. Let us make the necessary sacrifices for the brighter future that awaits us. Nigeria is God’s own country,” he affirmed.
The service, attended by top political leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures, embodied the spirit of unity that Oborevwori consistently advocates. The Catholic Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, delivered a homily that reinforced the governor’s message, urging Nigerians to embrace righteousness, love, endurance, and godliness. He also called on the wealthy to support the less privileged, noting that true wealth lies in generosity and compassion.
Independence as a Time for Renewal
The celebrations continued at the Cenotaph in Asaba, where the governor, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, called for Nigerians to move beyond ethnic and political divisions. He described Independence Day as a moment for remembrance, reflection, and renewal, urging citizens to unite under the banner of “One Delta, One Nigeria.”
“Our true strength lies in our people,” Oborevwori said. “As we mark Nigeria’s independence, let us embrace independence from ethnic division and rivalry, from despondency, and from forces that divide us.” He highlighted his administration’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. This agenda has driven significant investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education across Delta State.
In infrastructure, the state is constructing roads, bridges, and flood control projects to connect communities and stimulate economic growth. Urban renewal schemes are transforming cities, while in healthcare, free medical services are now available for pregnant women, children, widows, and the elderly. Advanced diagnostic tools, such as Computerised Tomography (CT) scanners and dialysis units, are operational in state hospitals, ensuring quality care for residents. In education, Delta is equipping young people for the digital age through ICT hubs and training centers, while job creation and support for vulnerable groups remain top priorities. “Here in Delta State, we are determined that nobody will be left behind,” Oborevwori assured.
Tackling Environmental Challenges
Delta State is also addressing long-standing ecological issues, particularly erosion, which has threatened communities for years. At the induction of the European Investment Bank (EIB)-Assisted Nigeria Climate Adaptation Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP-EIB) in Abuja, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, announced that Delta had secured international funding for erosion control. This achievement was made possible by Governor Oborevwori’s approval of counterpart funding, which will facilitate remediation efforts at erosion sites in Amachai, Ogbeozoma, and the Vanguard area of Oshimili North.
For communities facing the constant threat of collapsing farmlands, schools, and homes, this intervention is a lifeline. “This is more than an intervention; it is a new beginning for our people,” Ejiro said. Delta’s proactive approach positions it as a leader in Nigeria’s climate adaptation efforts, demonstrating a commitment to protecting both the environment and the livelihoods of its citizens.
Driving Economic Growth Through Infrastructure
Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to development was evident during his inspection of the Asaba Waterfront City project, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming the state’s economic landscape. Accompanied by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the governor expressed concern over the slow pace of work, particularly the delay in dredging, which is critical to the project’s success. He urged contractors to expedite the process, emphasizing the need for advanced equipment like an English cutter dredger to meet the project’s ambitious scope.
The road component of the waterfront project is approximately 85% complete, a significant milestone that will enhance access for investors and unlock economic opportunities. “Asaba is now a busy city, and people are ready to invest,” Oborevwori said. “Once this place is completed, it will look like Eko Atlantic.” He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the project’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), noting that the government has paid full compensation and is not indebted to contractors or the community. “We are on track because we have kept our promise. It’s now up to the investors to keep theirs,” he stated, reaffirming his reputation as a “promise keeper.”
Boosting Tourism and Investment
On the same day, Oborevwori inspected the construction of a five-star Hilton Hotel in Asaba, a project led by Chief Joseph Ukeji, Chairman of J.I. Ejison Group. The governor described the development as a major milestone for Delta’s tourism and economic growth, noting that the presence of an international brand like Hilton signals confidence in the state’s investment potential. “When the owner of this hotel approached me and said he was bringing a five-star hotel to Asaba, I asked what brand. He said Hilton. I said, ‘Ah, Hilton?’ That means something big is coming,” Oborevwori recounted.
The state government has supported the project by providing access roads, underscoring its commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses. Oborevwori highlighted Delta’s attractive returns on investment, stating, “There is nobody who has come to invest in Delta State who hasn’t seen a return on investment.” He attributed the influx of investments to the state’s peace and security, which he described as critical drivers of economic development.
Other infrastructure projects are also progressing across Delta State. The governor announced the upcoming groundbreaking for the Ugbolu/Okpanam Road project and the completion of the first phase of the Oko Road, with the second phase set to begin soon. The Nnebisi Road to Abraka junction project has been awarded, and drainage infrastructure is being installed to ensure quality road resurfacing. Major projects like the Uromi Junction flyover in Agbor and the Otovwodo flyover in Ughelli are also underway, with more developments planned.
Revolutionizing Healthcare
Delta State is making history in healthcare by becoming the first state in Nigeria to procure three Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, one for each senatorial district. According to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, these machines will be installed at Warri Central Hospital, Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara, and Asaba Specialist Hospital. “Before now, many Deltans were forced to travel outside the state to access MRI services,” Onojaeme said. “Governor Oborevwori saw this gap and directed immediate procurement.” This move has been hailed as a game-changer, enhancing early diagnosis and treatment for residents across the state.
Empowering Youth Through Sports
In a show of commitment to youth development, Governor Oborevwori donated four brand-new buses—two Toyota Coasters and two Toyota Hiace buses—to Warri Wolves and Delta Queens football clubs. The gesture aims to ease transportation challenges and motivate the teams to excel in domestic and international competitions. “Delta State is doing very well in sports across Nigeria. But we must continue to motivate our players to do even better,” the governor said.
Players and officials expressed gratitude for the unprecedented support, with Delta Queens’ captain, Owoeye Temitope, pledging to repay the governor’s gesture with trophies. Delta’s dominance in sports was further highlighted by its victory at the national Basic Education School Sports Competition in Abuja, earning the state the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) under-15 competition. To sustain this success, Oborevwori has approved a statewide Basic School Sports initiative to identify and nurture talent from the grassroots.
A Vision for a United and Prosperous Future
Governor Oborevwori’s leadership during Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations reflects a deep commitment to unity, progress, and resilience. From his calls for national unity to his administration’s transformative projects in infrastructure, healthcare, environmental protection, and sports, he is laying the foundation for a brighter future for Delta State and Nigeria as a whole. “The journey ahead is still long, but together we are moving toward sustainable progress,” he affirmed. “Our future is bright, and with unity and determination, we will achieve it.”
As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, Delta State’s message is clear: unity, sacrifice, and vision are the keys to unlocking a prosperous future for all.
