ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has outlined his administration’s initiatives to mitigate the hardship caused by recent fiscal and monetary reforms.
Speaking during his Independence Day address at the Cenotaph in Asaba on Tuesday, he highlighted the expansion of the Delta Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) programme, where the number of beneficiaries increased by 473%, from 36,353 to 208,209 individuals.
Oborevwori also pointed to the success of the MORE Grant Scheme, which has empowered over 5,000 traders, artisans, and female entrepreneurs with business support packages and grants. “Last week, we distributed farm inputs to over 6,000 farmers in the state to enhance agricultural production and move us closer to achieving food security,” he stated.
The governor called on Nigerians to unite against forces threatening the country’s stability and development, stressing the importance of collective effort in overcoming these challenges. “We must stand firm against bigotry, inciting oratory, and insurgency, which seek to divide us,” he urged.
In his speech, Governor Oborevwori paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers, who fought for the nation’s freedom, expressing optimism that the current challenges would be surmounted. “While challenges are inevitable, hope keeps us going, and I believe Nigeria will emerge stronger, fulfilling its potential as Africa’s giant,” he said.
He also announced the release of N1 billion as a counterpart fund to empower 2,000 smallholder farmers in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). This is part of the state’s broader plan to boost agriculture and foster sustainable development.
Oborevwori commended President Bola Tinubu for initiating a National Youth Conference aimed at integrating young people into nation-building efforts. He assured that Delta State would fully support the initiative, noting his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, including rehabilitated roads, upgraded schools, and housing projects. However, he acknowledged that more work needs to be done.
“We have made significant progress, but I admit there is still much ahead. I expect many of our projects to come to fruition in the coming months and years,” he said.
On security, the governor emphasised the need for continued collaboration between security agencies, the private sector, and communities to combat crime. He also announced plans to revitalise the Delta State Security Trust Fund, calling for collective support to ensure a safer Delta State.
Governor Oborevwori concluded by urging Deltans to uphold peace and unity, reiterating that meaningful development can only occur in a peaceful environment. “Let us use this anniversary to strengthen the bonds that unite us. Together, we can advance Delta through our MORE agenda,” he concluded.
