*Celebrates State’s Remarkable Progress
DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, said the state has entered a new era of sustainable growth, development and prosperity as it marks its 35th creation.
Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, in Asaba, on Thursday, August 27, described the anniversary as a significant milestone in the history of the state, saying the journey of the past 35 years has been defined by resilience, unity and collective efforts of its people.
He commended past leaders, traditional rulers, relogious leaders, civil servants, private sector players and Deltans for their contributions to the growth and development of the state since its creation on August 27, 1991.
The governor restated his administration’s commitment to building on the achievements of past governments through people-oriented policies, infrastructural renewal, economic expansion and inclusive governance.
Oborevwori said the ongoing transformation across the state was a reflection of his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy, uurging Deltans to remain united and continue to support government’s development agenda, assuring that the state’s best years are ahead.
He stated: “Today, as we celebrate 35 years of our dear state, we are reminded of the sacrifices, dedication and vision of those who have contributed to making Delta what it is today.
“The shining era of Delta State is here, and together we will build a future of greater possibilities.”
Oborevwori wished Deltans at home and abroad a happy anniversary celebration, even as he called for renewed commitment to peace, unity and collective responsibility in advancing the state.
At a thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, to mark the anniversary, the governor commended successive administrations and the people of the state for their contributions to its peace, stability and development, describing it as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, reflect on its journey and renew the collective commitment to building a greater state.
He attributed Delta’s progress over the past 35 years to God’s grace, commending Deltans for sustaining peace and acknowledging those who have contributed to the state’s growth and development.
Oborevwori paid tribute to political leaders, past and present, for their contributions to Delta’s stability and democratic development, saying their wisdom, sacrifices, dialogue and commitment had helped the state maintain peace and achieve progress.
He also acknowledged the contributions of former military administrators and civilian governors, stressing that each administration had played a role in shaping present-day Delta State and contributed a chapter to the history of our state, for which they will not be forgotten.
He said the anniversary offered an opportunity to recognise the contributions of the state’s diverse ethnic nationalities, religious communities and non-indigenes who had made Delta their home, which remains one of its greatest strengths and a critical factor in its continued peace and development.
The governor said his administration had a responsibility to build on the foundations laid by previous governments, rather than take past achievements for granted, adding: “Gratitude for the past must be accompanied by responsibility for the future.”
He promised that his administration would continue to consolidate the gains of its predecessors while doing more for the people, as its vision is to build a Delta State that is “more peaceful, prosperous, secure, inclusive and competitive, and better prepared for the opportunities of the future.”
He listed infrastructure, education, healthcare, human capital development, agriculture and technology as his administration’s priority areas, assuring that it would also continue to strengthen institutions, create an environment where businesses could thrive and enable young people to realise their potential.
Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness and continued collaboration with religious and traditional leaders, political stakeholders, civil society organisations, organised labour, the private sector, women and communities across the state.
He commended Deltans for maintaining peace, describing it as a major driver of the development recorded across the state, noting: “The peace we are enjoying today has brought development.
“If there were crises in the state, I don’t think we would be talking about the level of development we are witnessing today. I know that by the time we turn 40, Delta will still look better.”
In his sermon, titled, ‘The Uniqueness of the Christian Faith,’ Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Asaba, Ven. Charles Osemenam, urged Deltans to deepen their relationship with God and place unwavering faith and trust in Him.
Osemenam described the anniversary as a time for thanksgiving and sober reflection, urging the people to acknowledge God’s role in the state’s journey and continue to seek His guidance.
The service was attended by the wife of the governor, Tobore; Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme; and other senior government officials.
