Residents of Umukwata community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State can hardly contain their excitement as heavy machinery rumbles through the once-neglected premises of Umukwata Secondary School. After years of watching their beloved institution crumble under the weight of decay – leaking roofs, cracked walls, broken furniture, and overgrown weeds – a comprehensive renovation project has finally begun, breathing new life into the school and restoring hope to hundreds of students, teachers, and families.
The transformation, now visibly underway, is the direct result of swift approval and funding from the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. Photographs circulating within the community show workers busily plastering walls, replacing dilapidated roofing sheets, repainting classrooms in bright, welcoming colours, and clearing the compound. Even at this early stage, the school is already shedding its old, sorrowful appearance and donning what locals affectionately call “a brand-new look.”
For a community that had almost given up on the possibility of government intervention, the development has sparked spontaneous celebrations. Students who once studied under harsh conditions – dodging rainwater dripping from the ceiling or squeezing into overcrowded, poorly ventilated classrooms – now speak enthusiastically about returning to a school they can truly be proud of.
Leading the chorus of gratitude is the Deputy Youth President of Umukwata community, Comrade Wilson Anioba, who described the renovation as nothing short of a miracle. Speaking on behalf of the youth and the entire community, he said the governor’s timely approval came just when despair was setting in.
“For years we watched our school rot away. We wrote letters, we pleaded, we prayed, yet nothing seemed to change,” Comrade Anioba recounted. “Many of us had lost hope that anything would ever be done. But His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has proven once again that he is a listening governor, a man who truly cares about the grassroots. This single act has restored faith in governance for many of us.”
He particularly applauded the governor’s M.O.R.E Agenda – the administration’s flagship programme which stands for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security – saying its impact is now tangible in every corner of Delta State.
“The Governor promised ‘renewed hope’ when he took office, and today that renewed hope has landed squarely in Umukwata,” Anioba declared. “Our children can now look forward to learning in a conducive environment. Our working and able Governor has demonstrated, once again, his passion for education and grassroots development. The joy of the students, the staff, and the entire community knows no bounds. Your Excellency, we are immensely grateful. May God continue to bless and uphold you.”
Yet the community’s appreciation extends beyond the state governor. A significant share of the praise has been showered on Chief Isaac Onyesom, the respected Ward 4 leader popularly known as “Omenosa,” who is widely acknowledged as the driving force behind the project’s approval.
According to community members, Chief Onyesom personally took the plight of the school to the highest levels of government and refused to relent until approval was granted. His reputation for selfless service and unwavering commitment to Umukwata’s progress is well-known, but this latest achievement has further cemented his place in the hearts of the people.
Comrade Anioba was effusive in his tribute: “We must give honour to whom it is due. Omenosa has been there for us through thick and thin. He has continued to do the Godly work he is known for, always placing the interest of Umukwata above everything else. This renovation would not have happened – or at least not this quickly – without his tireless advocacy. On behalf of the youths and the entire community, we say a big thank you, Chief Isaac Onyesom. Your name will forever be written in gold in the history of Umukwata.”
As work continues at a steady pace, residents say the psychological impact alone has been immense. Teachers report that student morale has skyrocketed, with many expressing eagerness to resume classes in the upgraded facilities. Parents who had considered transferring their children to schools in neighbouring communities now say they will keep them at Umukwata Secondary School, confident that quality education is finally within reach.
Beyond aesthetics and structural repairs, the community believes the renovation will translate into better academic performance, reduced dropout rates, and a renewed sense of pride among indigenes. For a rural area where educational infrastructure has long lagged behind urban centres, the project represents far more than bricks and mortar – it is a powerful statement that government can work for ordinary people when leaders are committed.
As the sun sets over the newly painted classrooms and workers pack up for the day, the atmosphere in Umukwata is one of cautious optimism turning into outright celebration. Songs of praise for Governor Oborevwori and Chief Onyesom echo through the community gatherings, and prayers are offered daily for the successful completion of the project.
In the words of one elderly resident who has lived in Umukwata all her life: “I never thought I would see this day. Our children will now study like children in Asaba or Warri. God bless the Governor. God bless Omenosa. Umukwata will never forget.”
With the renovation progressing smoothly and community support unwavering, Umukwata Secondary School is poised to emerge not just as a rebuilt institution, but as a shining testament to what responsive leadership and dedicated community advocacy can achieve.
