By Anne Azuka
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has assured citizens of substantial development in 2025, emphasizing a budgetary allocation of ₦50 billion for road infrastructure across the state’s 25 Local Government Areas.
The governor further revealed that an additional ₦200 billion has been reserved specifically for road construction, as outlined in the 2025 budget approved by the State House of Assembly.
Speaking during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Ndokwa Neku Union, led by its President-General, Brig. Gen. Mike Ndubuisi (Rtd), Oborevwori reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance.
Commitment to the Ndokwa Nation
Welcoming the delegation, the governor described the Ndokwa Nation as pivotal to his administration, stating:
“This is your government. You are number two in this government. Receiving you is like a homecoming.”
He acknowledged their requests, assuring them of support for projects that align with the administration’s plans:
“We are elected to serve the people. The Ndokwa Nation will never be neglected.”
The governor highlighted 27 ongoing projects in the region, including the Ndemili-Utagba-Uno road, which he described as critical. He explained that while Phase One is underway, other stretches would follow soon.
Budgetary Focus on Infrastructure
Oborevwori emphasized his administration’s efforts to ensure equitable development, pointing out the allocation of ₦2 billion for projects in each Local Government Area in the 2025 budget. He added:
“Outside these allocations, we have reserved not less than ₦200 billion for road infrastructure. Work on ongoing projects will resume immediately as we enter the dry season.”
Dialogue Over Confrontation
On concerns regarding Sterling Oil’s alleged non-compliance with its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Oborevwori urged dialogue instead of confrontation. He assured the community of his support in addressing the issue:
“Dialogue is the best way forward. I appeal to your youths to avoid taking the law into their hands. We will engage the company to ensure compliance with the MoU.”
Addressing a Viral Video
Oborevwori also clarified his position regarding a viral video featuring Senator Ned Nwoko, who claimed to have discussed the Okpai Independent Power Project (IPP) with him. The governor refuted the claim, stating that their only discussion revolved around appointments for the senator’s constituents, which were granted:
“When I saw the video, I just smiled. Perhaps he didn’t realize it would go viral.”
Ndokwa Nation’s Support
In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Ndubuisi commended the governor’s efforts in mitigating the impact of federal economic policies and acknowledged key appointments granted to Ndokwa sons and daughters. He also expressed gratitude for the selection of an Ndokwa native as Deputy Governor.
He appealed for the construction of more roads and requested the establishment of a campus of Dennis Osadebay University in Ndokwa Nation, pledging continued support for the governor’s administration beyond 2027.
The visit underscored the administration’s dedication to equitable development and inclusive governance.