BURUTU/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to the balanced development of all regions of the state, including the riverine communities.
Speaking at the inauguration of key projects in Burutu and Warri South-West local government areas on Friday, the Governor emphasised the importance of peace in fostering progress and assured residents that his government remains committed to advancing the state’s infrastructure.
The Governor made these remarks while inaugurating the Model Secondary School in Ogulagha, Burutu, and a newly constructed faculty building and lecture halls at the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West. He praised the peaceful environment in the riverine areas, attributing it to the success of ongoing development efforts. “Peace is crucial to the development of any community,” Oborevwori noted, pledging continued efforts to boost infrastructure and growth across Delta State.
Acknowledging the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) for its role in delivering the Model Secondary School, Oborevwori said: “The completion of this school is evidence that DESOPADEC is fulfilling its mandate to enhance the infrastructure and economic standing of oil-producing communities.
It is a valuable addition to the growing number of schools in Delta State, and it will ensure that children in these riverine areas receive quality education.”
Furthering his administration’s development agenda, the Governor revealed that the State Executive Council has approved the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the 12.1 kilometre Odimodi-Okuntu-Ogulagha Road at a cost of N5.2 billion.
He assured residents that the project, once completed, would significantly ease transportation difficulties and boost the local economy. “This road is crucial to the economy of the surrounding communities, and its completion will greatly reduce the hardships commuters currently face.”
At the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Governor Oborevwori lauded the institution as a specialised facility with the potential to transform Nigeria’s maritime sector. He highlighted the economic benefits the university would bring to its host community and the surrounding areas, including urbanisation, job creation, and retail opportunities.
“The lecture hall we are commissioning today demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation between federal and state governments,” he said, referencing the state’s role in constructing the new building despite the university’s federal status.
Oborevwori also announced the immediate approval for the construction of a road leading to the university’s permanent site, further cementing his administration’s commitment to the development of riverine communities.
“These areas are very dear to my administration, which is why we established the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development. I assure you that peace, security, and development will continue to flourish in the state,” he stated.
In his remarks, DESOPADEC Chairman Olorogun John Nani expressed gratitude for the state government’s continued support for oil-producing communities. He hailed the completion of the school as a testament to DESOPADEC’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of residents in the area.
Hon. Julius Pondi, the Member Representing Burutu Federal Constituency, commended Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering focus on developing riverine areas, noting that such efforts demonstrate the Governor’s commitment to treating these communities on par with upland areas.
The event also featured a speech by the immediate past Deputy Governor, Barr Kingsley Otuaro, who reflected on the role of Niger Delta agitations in the establishment of the Maritime University. He applauded the state government’s numerous interventions in support of the institution.
Professor Emmanuel Adigio, Vice Chancellor of the Nigerian Maritime University, praised Governor Oborevwori for his proactive support, particularly in facilitating the construction of the faculty complex. He highlighted the significance of the state government’s contributions to the university’s growth and development.
The projects inaugurated underscore Governor Oborevwori’s MORE agenda, which prioritises meaningful development, peace, and prosperity for all parts of Delta State.
