Asaba, Delta State – January 17, 2026 — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has joined family, friends, colleagues, and political associates in celebrating Barr. Val Arenyeka, the state's Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, as he marks his 60th birth anniversary today, January 17.
In a formal statement released from Government House in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described Arenyeka as a "consummate political tactician and devoted public servant" whose decades-long dedication to governance, law, and public service has left an indelible mark on Delta State. The Governor highlighted Arenyeka's exemplary character as a steadfast political leader, accomplished lawyer, and seasoned administrator, noting that his unwavering commitment to service and good governance has remained consistent throughout his career.
Born on January 17, 1966, Barr. Ada Val Arenyeka—widely known simply as Val Arenyeka—has built a distinguished career spanning legal practice, party politics, and executive leadership. A trained lawyer by profession, Arenyeka has been a prominent figure in Delta State's political landscape for years. He previously served as Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, where he was praised for his directional leadership, consensus-building skills, and dogged party loyalty. In 2020, he was inaugurated in that role unopposed, earning commendations from federal lawmakers like Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi for his "colossal party leadership prowess."
Arenyeka's political journey reflects his deep roots in Warri and broader Delta communities, where he has been seen as a detribalized leader capable of bridging divides. His earlier roles included consultations ahead of major elections and contributions to party unity. In July 2024, Governor Oborevwori swore him in as Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources during a cabinet reshuffle that emphasized merit and capacity. At the swearing-in ceremony, Arenyeka pledged loyalty to the administration's M.O.R.E. Agenda, assuring that he and fellow appointees would uphold high standards in advancing the state's development goals.
The MORE Agenda—standing for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, Enhanced Peace and Security—serves as the cornerstone of Governor Oborevwori's administration. Launched to consolidate previous efforts and propel Delta forward, it prioritizes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, private sector job creation, human capital development, infrastructural renewal, and improved governance. Agriculture occupies a central position in this framework, as the state seeks to diversify beyond oil dependency, enhance food security, generate employment, and foster agro-business opportunities.
Under Arenyeka's leadership, the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources has pursued aggressive revitalization strategies aligned with the MORE Agenda. Key initiatives include the recruitment of 120 State Livestock Management Officers to mitigate herder-farmer clashes, a persistent challenge in Nigeria's Middle Belt and southern regions. Arenyeka has urged broader societal involvement in farming, including calls for journalists and civil servants to engage in agriculture to bridge hunger gaps and promote self-reliance. He has championed technology-driven farming, homestead agricultural projects, and empowerment programs.
Recent milestones under his tenure include partnerships with agri-tech platforms like MyAgroPadi, which empowered 250 farmers with modern techniques, training, and resources in 2025. The ministry has also advanced frameworks for responsible investment in land-intensive agriculture, linked to a $50 million World Bank-supported program. In the proposed 2026 state budget, Governor Oborevwori allocated N10 billion to the sector—underscoring its priority for boosting food production, job creation, and economic diversification amid national food insecurity concerns.
Arenyeka's personal contributions extend beyond policy. He has institutionalized homestead farming initiatives and encouraged youth empowerment through agricultural conferences, such as the Isoko Youth Conference in 2025, where discussions focused on agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth. His efforts have positioned Delta State to leverage its fertile lands, vast arable potential (including over 500,000 hectares of underdeveloped land), and resources in crop production, livestock, poultry, piggery, and aquaculture.
Governor Oborevwori's birthday message emphasized Arenyeka's ongoing contributions: “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate an outstanding public servant and a political leader, Barr. Val Arenyeka, on his 60th birth anniversary.” The Governor prayed for the Commissioner's continued good health, renewed strength, and many more years of "purposeful and impactful service to Delta State and humanity," expressing hope that the years ahead would bring greater fulfillment, wisdom, and accomplishments.
At 60, Arenyeka enters a new decade amid a pivotal phase for Delta's agricultural transformation. His blend of legal expertise, political acumen, and administrative experience continues to drive progress in a sector critical to the state's economic future. The celebration today not only honors a milestone but also recognizes a leader whose work supports the broader vision of making life richer, better, and more fulfilling for all Deltans under the Oborevwori administration.
As Delta State advances its MORE Agenda, figures like Commissioner Arenyeka remain instrumental in translating policy into tangible benefits—ensuring food security, reducing import dependency, and creating sustainable livelihoods in rural and urban communities alike. Congratulations pour in from across the state, reflecting widespread appreciation for his service and optimism for continued impact.
