SEVEN DAYS IN OBOREVWORI’S DELTA STATE

In July of last year, the city of Warri, the main oil hub in Delta State, was plunged into chaos due to a dispute between Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo leaders over electoral ward delineation. In response, Ijaw leaders mobilized women to blockade Chevron's oil installations. The fear was reminiscent of the 1997 incident where warring factions took control of the city, leading to violence and destruction.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori quickly intervened, sending representatives to Warri to bring leaders together in Asaba, the state capital. Through diplomacy and street wisdom, he successfully restored peace to Warri. Seeking to consolidate this peace, Governor Oborevwori reached out to President Bola Tinubu, who facilitated a meeting between leaders of the three ethnic groups in Aso Rock.

Following this meeting, the electoral wards were redistributed between the factions, and the city returned to normalcy. Impressed by Oborevwori's performance, the UK-based Commonwealth Institute of Advanced Professional Studies ranked Delta State as the second best-governed state in Nigeria. Governor Oborevwori's administration is guided by the MORE agenda - Meaningful Development, Opportunities For All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace And Security.

His policies have led to significant improvements in infrastructure, including roads, flyovers, and bridges. Delta State's economy has grown to become one of the top five largest in Nigeria, while the state's debt burden has been reduced from N465 billion to less than N150 billion. The healthcare sector has also seen substantial development, with the introduction of a neuropsychiatric facility, public health laboratory, and various diagnostic centers.

Additionally, health insurance has been expanded to cover three million people. The Delta Cares program has provided monthly payments and free healthcare to 10,000 widows, as well as support for artisans and youth. Over 400,000 people have benefited from the skills acquisition program, receiving starter packs to launch their own businesses.

Governor Oborevwori is transparent about the funds allocated to Delta State, emphasizing that the state has the financial capacity to execute developmental projects.