In a resounding endorsement of effective leadership, Dr. Nelson Egware, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Media, has lauded Rep. (Pst.) Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, the Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, for his exemplary performance from 2023 to 2025. Egware's statement highlights a lawmaker who has excelled in robust lawmaking, far-reaching constituency projects, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Isoko people.
A pastor, engineer, and seasoned public servant with prior experience as Delta State's Commissioner for Energy, Rep. Ukodhiko has brought a blend of spiritual compassion, technical expertise, and political acumen to his role since his inauguration in 2023 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His tenure has been marked by active participation in the National Assembly, sponsoring key motions and bills that address both local grievances and national issues, while delivering tangible developments back home in Isoko land—a region known for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to Nigeria's oil economy.
Egware emphasized Ukodhiko's strong legislative presence, noting prominent motions such as one urging oil and gas companies to end gas flaring and redirect flared gas towards electricity generation for Isoko communities. This intervention tackles environmental degradation and power shortages plaguing the Niger Delta. Another significant motion called for the urgent rehabilitation of failed sections of the East-West Road, a critical artery linking Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States. Remarkably, this advocacy has borne fruit, with the Federal Government commencing rehabilitation works along the corridor, easing transportation woes for residents and boosting economic activities.
On the bills front, Ukodhiko has championed initiatives to establish federal institutions that would transform education, healthcare, and skills development in Isoko. These include proposals for a Federal Medical Centre in Oleh, a Federal University of Agriculture in Erawha-Owhe, a College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition in Olomoro, a Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in Owhelogbo, and a Federal College of Education (Technical) in Oleh. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in amending the University Teaching Hospital Act, which has passed third reading in the House and awaits Senate concurrence. These efforts aim to decentralize federal presence, create jobs, and enhance access to quality services in a historically underserved area.
Turning to constituency impact, Egware described Ukodhiko's projects as "visible and balanced," spreading development equitably across Isoko North and South. In his first full budget year (2024), deliverables included solar-powered streetlights for enhanced security and nighttime activity, medical equipment donations to primary healthcare centers, school furniture supplies, classroom constructions, and extensive empowerment programs.
Empowerment stands out as a cornerstone. Over 200 women received entrepreneurial training and start-up grants, while hundreds of youths benefited from vocational and ICT skills programs. Recent initiatives, such as a five-day training for 100 constituents in specialized entrepreneurship and a multi-million naira program empowering 100 agripreneurs in fish and pig farming, underscore his focus on economic self-reliance. Ukodhiko has also facilitated NEMA flood relief, enrolled 250 constituents in the Federal Government's ₦50,000 Conditional Grant Scheme, and secured training for over 150 under the NDE Renewed Hope Employment Initiative.
Education and youth advancement remain priorities. In 2024, 400 students enjoyed free JAMB registration and CBT training, with 10 receiving full scholarships for prestigious courses at Madonna University. Social welfare efforts include annual Christmas food distributions reaching thousands of households (expanding yearly from 2023 to 2025), monthly stipends for the elderly and persons with disabilities, and job placements in federal and private sectors.
Infrastructure gains encompass fertilizer distribution to farmers, water system rehabilitations, erosion control, transformer upgrades, and solar lighting projects that improve productivity and living standards. The 2025 budget cycle marks a high point, with projects worth over ₦3.1 billion—including roads, flood control, skills centers, markets, diagnostics, and renewable energy—either completed, ongoing, or pending. Ukodhiko's lobbying secured an additional ₦2 billion beyond allocations, demonstrating his influence.
Political observers and constituents alike praise this scorecard as one anchored in impactful legislation, equitable distribution, and human capital investment. From healthcare advancements to educational opportunities, infrastructure upgrades, and empowerment schemes, Ukodhiko's work delivers measurable benefits, fostering hope and progress in Isoko.
As his tenure progresses, Rep. Ukodhiko has set a benchmark for responsive governance—one that aligns with the people's aspirations, protects Isoko interests, and contributes to Delta State's development under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. His blend of humility, strategic advocacy, and hands-on delivery reinforces public trust, proving that effective representation can indeed transform communities one intervention at a time.
