Asaba — In a significant move aimed at re-energizing the administrative machinery of Delta State, His Excellency, Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, has officially approved the appointment of eleven new Permanent Secretaries into the State Public Service. The announcement, which was made public through a special government statement released on Monday, May 11, 2026, marks one of the most substantial updates to the state's bureaucratic leadership since the beginning of the year.
The appointments come at a critical juncture as the administration seeks to accelerate the implementation of its developmental programs under the MORE Agenda. By elevating these seasoned professionals to the highest rank within the civil service, the Governor is signaling a commitment to meritocracy and the continuous stabilization of the state's governance structures.
The list of newly appointed Permanent Secretaries features a diverse array of professionals, including medical experts, engineers, and career administrators. The appointees are: Dr. Yinkore A. Paul, Dr. Okwunze A.C., Amadubogha Peters, Nkenchor O.O., Akambe O.H., Engr. Aghagba S., Ogbugo Victor Chike, Ighoyota M. Rocky, Itawansa Augustine A., Onobraekpeyan O. Edwin, and Nkemachor Lucky.
The inclusion of specialized professionals such as Dr. Yinkore, Dr. Okwunze, and Engineer Aghagba suggests a deliberate attempt by the Governor to place technical expertise at the helm of relevant ministries. This strategy is expected to improve the quality of policy formulation and project execution in the health and infrastructure sectors, which remain pivotal to the state's economic growth.
According to the official directive issued from the Directorate of Government House and Protocol, the newly appointed officials will not have to wait long to assume their new responsibilities. The formal swearing-in ceremony has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The event will take place at the Unity Hall, located within the Government House complex in Asaba, the state capital.
The ceremony, which is expected to be attended by top government functionaries, traditional rulers, and family members of the appointees, will officially commence at 10:00 am. In line with government protocol, the Permanent Secretary for State Protocol Matters, Tetsola Anino Nelson, emphasized that all guests and invited dignitaries are expected to be seated by 9:30 am to ensure the program proceeds without delay.
The role of a Permanent Secretary in the Nigerian civil service is a cornerstone of executive governance. As the accounting officers of their respective ministries, these individuals are responsible for the day-to-day management of government resources and the continuity of administrative processes across different political cycles. Their appointment is often seen as a reward for years of dedicated service, integrity, and exceptional performance in the lower cadres of the civil service.
Political analysts in Delta State have noted that Governor Oborevwori’s choice to appoint eleven individuals simultaneously indicates an effort to fill existing vacancies left by retiring officials. This proactive approach prevents administrative bottlenecks and ensures that the various ministries do not suffer from a leadership vacuum. Furthermore, the appointments are expected to boost the morale of the entire state workforce, as it demonstrates a clear pathway for career progression based on merit.
As the state prepares for the inauguration on Wednesday, there is a palpable sense of expectation within the Delta State Public Service. The new Permanent Secretaries will be stepping into their roles at a time when the public is demanding more efficiency, transparency, and speed in the delivery of government services. From the healthcare challenges in the riverine communities to the infrastructure needs of the urban centers, the tasks ahead for these eleven leaders are substantial.
The swearing-in at Unity Hall will mark the beginning of a new chapter for these officials, as they transition from being senior directors to the ultimate custodians of the state’s bureaucratic legacy. Governor Oborevwori is expected to use the occasion to charge the new appointees with the responsibility of upholding the highest ethical standards while driving the state’s vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Delta.
