SAPELE/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced that his administration has begun the revitalization of Sapele, once a bustling economic hub, with the construction of over 15 kilometers of internal roads in the ancient city. This marks a key step in the government’s efforts to restore Sapele’s infrastructure and create an enabling environment for sustainable economic growth.
Governor Oborevwori made this known through the State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during the maiden reunion and business summit organized by the Sapele Memories Development Foundation at the Sapele Athletics Club.
Speaking at the event, the governor emphasized the importance of infrastructure development in revitalizing the economy of Sapele and aligning with his vision of a unified Delta State. He commended the Sapele Memories Development Foundation for its initiative, which he said is in line with the administration’s “One Delta” agenda, designed to create equal opportunities for all Deltans.
“Your gathering today is seen as part of the agenda that the government is pushing forward to create opportunities for all,” Oborevwori said. “It is part of the vision of this administration to build one Delta, where all of us can gather, irrespective of our different political persuasions.”
On the ongoing infrastructure projects, Oborevwori highlighted the construction of over 15 kilometers of roads within Sapele, with significant mobilization already provided to contractors to ensure the timely completion of the projects. He assured residents that these efforts would restore the city’s economic vibrancy, attracting new business opportunities.
“The development of Sapele has begun, and by the time we complete some of these projects, the city will be even better than you remember,” the governor stated. “We are providing the enabling environment for businesses to thrive, because government alone cannot provide all the needed employment opportunities.”
The governor further noted that the administration is not focusing solely on Sapele but is working on infrastructure projects across the three senatorial districts of the state. He mentioned the fast-tracking of the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway as part of the broader effort to enhance connectivity between communities.
On the Okirighwre-Benin Road, the commissioner revealed that the contract has already been awarded, with a projected completion date between now and May next year. He urged the residents of Sapele to support the government and contractors to ensure the successful and peaceful execution of these projects.
Addressing concerns about security, Oborevwori appealed to community leaders to continue advocating for peace, as security is vital for attracting development. “If you are not able to have peace and ensure security, it becomes much more difficult to attract development to such societies,” he said.
The event’s chairman, Professor Sam Oyovbaire, praised the efforts of the Sapele Memories Development Foundation in organizing the summit, describing it as a bold step toward rejuvenating Sapele’s economic and social life. He called on residents, known as Safarians, to remain united in the goal of rebuilding the city, which he said deserves a higher institution and renewed industrial activity.
The Orodje of Okpe, HRM Maj Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd), Orhue I, also commended the efforts to revive Sapele, while urging the community to address the challenge of insecurity, which he described as crucial to restoring the city’s lost glory.
Chief Ighoyota Amori, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart, recalled Sapele’s rich industrial heritage, highlighting its prominence as home to one of the world’s largest timber companies in the 1800s, the African Timber and Plywood (A.T. & P.), among others. He underscored the need to draw inspiration from the city’s past to reignite its industrial potential.
In his welcome address, Professor Hope Eghagha, President of the Sapele Memories Development Foundation, said the reunion aimed to give back to the city that shaped the lives of many prominent individuals. He described Sapele as a “melting pot” where ethnic divisions were once nonexistent and expressed the foundation’s commitment to restoring that spirit.
Eghagha also announced that the foundation had conducted 57 free surgeries in the past week and plans to support local schools to inspire the youth. He thanked Governor Oborevwori, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders for their support.
The event drew dignitaries from across the state, including the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, Udurhie 1, among others.
