In a recent interview, His Royal Majesty Asagba Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, the revered traditional ruler of Asaba, has come out strongly in defense of Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori's administration. The monarch commended the governor for his prudent management of the state's resources and his commitment to even development across the diverse landscape of Delta State. Azinge's remarks serve as a clarion call for critics to adopt a more nuanced perspective when evaluating the governor's performance, highlighting the unique challenges posed by Delta's expansive and multi-urban structure.
The Asagba's endorsement comes at a time when public discourse on governance in Delta State often draws comparisons with more centralized states. He urged detractors to recognize the inherent complexities of governing a state as vast and varied as Delta before passing judgment. "Delta State is not like a one-city state," Azinge emphatically stated. "You have Warri, Sapele, Ughelli, Abraka, Asaba, Ibusa, and so many others. Any government that takes care of all these numerous cities with the limited resources available is doing exceptionally well." This statement underscores the monarch's belief that equitable resource distribution in Delta demands a level of strategic planning and patience that cannot be fairly compared to states with a single dominant urban center.
Delta State's geography and demography present a formidable challenge to any administration. Spanning riverine areas, oil-rich deltas, and upland communities, the state is home to multiple thriving urban centers, each with its own economic, cultural, and infrastructural needs. Asaba, the state capital, stands as a bustling administrative and commercial hub, often drawing the spotlight. Yet, as Azinge pointed out, it is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Warri, with its historical significance as a port city and oil industry epicenter, commands substantial attention and investment. Sapele, known for its timber and rubber industries, Ughelli with its power generation heritage, Abraka as an educational stronghold housing Delta State University, and Ibusa as a growing satellite town near Asaba—all these cities contribute to the state's vibrant tapestry. Governing such a mosaic requires a delicate balance, where resources must be stretched thin to foster growth without neglecting any region.
Azinge contrasted Delta's model with that of states like Lagos and Rivers, which benefit from highly centralized economic hubs. Lagos, Nigeria's commercial nerve center, revolves around its megacity status, allowing for concentrated development in areas like Ikeja, Victoria Island, and Lekki. Similarly, Rivers State, with Port Harcourt as its undisputed focal point, channels much of its oil-derived wealth into a singular urban core. "Asaba alone can compare with any other city. Talk less of Warri, Ughelli, Sapele, among so many others," the Asagba noted. He argued that Delta's decentralized structure necessitates a more gradual and inclusive approach to development, one that prioritizes fairness over rapid, localized booms.
Despite these challenges, the monarch acknowledged that some communities, particularly those in remote or "wild land" areas—often characterized by difficult terrain, flooding-prone zones, or underdeveloped infrastructure—may feel overlooked. These regions, which include parts of the Niger Delta's creeks and hinterlands, face unique hurdles such as accessibility issues and environmental vulnerabilities. However, Azinge was quick to defend the Oborevwori administration's efforts, asserting that deliberate steps are being taken to bridge these gaps. He highlighted the recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Kwale Free Trade Zone in Kwale as a prime example of forward-thinking initiative. "This is no mean feat and a move that will generate far-reaching economic impact," he declared. The Kwale project, poised to attract investments in manufacturing, logistics, and agro-processing, promises to unlock economic potentials in the Ndokwa area, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and stimulating local economies. Such ventures demonstrate the governor's vision for inclusive growth, extending beyond the traditional urban strongholds.
The Asagba's call for patience and understanding resonates deeply in a state where ethnic, senatorial, and communal interests often intersect. Delta comprises three senatorial districts—Delta North, Central, and South—each with distinct priorities. Delta North, home to Asaba and Aniomaland, focuses on administrative expansion and education. Delta Central, encompassing Urhobo heartlands like Ughelli and Sapele, emphasizes industrial revival. Delta South, with its Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Isoko communities in Warri and beyond, grapples with oil-related environmental issues and maritime development. Governor Oborevwori's MORE Agenda—Meaningful Opportunities for Real Empowerment—aims to address these through targeted interventions in roads, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. Azinge praised this holistic strategy, noting that prudent resource management is key to preventing marginalization. "Let us underscore the point: Delta is not a one-city state," he reiterated. "The way and manner resources are managed and spread must ensure every part of the state is satisfied."
Expanding on the governor's achievements, one cannot overlook the ongoing infrastructure projects that dot the state. In Asaba, flyovers and road expansions are easing traffic and enhancing connectivity. Warri is witnessing revitalization efforts, including the rehabilitation of ports and markets. Sapele’s historical landmarks are being preserved alongside modern upgrades. Ughelli benefits from power sector investments, while Abraka sees campus expansions. Even in rural areas, initiatives like rural electrification, water schemes, and agricultural support programs are making inroads. The administration's fiscal discipline, amid fluctuating oil revenues and federal allocations, has enabled these without plunging the state into unsustainable debt.
Azinge's intervention is timely, fostering a narrative of unity and realistic expectations. In a democracy where instant gratification often fuels criticism, his royal perspective reminds citizens of the long-term benefits of equitable development. By investing in multiple cities, Delta is building a resilient economy less vulnerable to the pitfalls of over-centralization. The Kwale Free Trade Zone, for instance, could position the state as a competitor in regional trade, drawing parallels with successful zones in other parts of Nigeria.
Critics, the Asagba implied, should temper their comparisons. Assessing Delta through the "narrow lens" of one-city states ignores the state's potential for diversified growth. With limited resources—primarily from oil, agriculture, and internally generated revenue—the government must prioritize sustainably. Oborevwori's approach, as endorsed by the monarch, ensures that no region is left behind, promoting social harmony in a state known for its ethnic diversity.
In conclusion, HRM Asagba Professor Epiphany Azinge's commendation of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reinforces the administration's dedication to even development. Delta's multi-city identity is both a challenge and a strength, demanding wise stewardship. As projects like the Kwale Free Trade Zone take shape, and infrastructure spreads across Warri, Asaba, and beyond, the state inches closer to realizing its full potential. Patience, as the Asagba advocates, will yield a more prosperous, unified Delta for generations to come. This balanced governance model sets a benchmark for other complex states in Nigeria, proving that prudent management can triumph over geographical and resource constraints.
