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2027: Oritsemami Visits Delta ADC Chairman, Okolie, Reaffirms Senatorial Ambition to Develop Delta South

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Isoko Nation News
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By Emeka Nwokocha

Astute politician and staunch advocate of good governance and social justice, Hon. Oritsemami Omagbemi Obioru, on Tuesday 23 August, paid a solidarity visit to the Delta State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Engr. Austine Okolie, reaffirming his ambition to run for Delta South Senate Seat, in 2027.

Speaking to journalists, after his meeting with the Delta ADC Chairman, at the party’s secretariat, Asaba, capital of Delta State.

Hon. Obioru said, “My visit to the Delta State ADC Chairman is a demonstration of my unwavering solidarity to ADC, reinforcing my support for the party, and strengthening my alignment with the party’s leadership towards the collective pursuit of a united and progressive Delta South.”

He continued, “Our discussion at the meeting centred on my ambition to run for Delta South Senate Seat, in 2027; how to deepen cooperation and collaboration among party faithful, strengthening party structures, mobilizing party faithful across the eight local government areas of Delta South, fostering youth and women participation in politics, and adoption of issue-based campaigns to address pressing challenges such as environmental degradation, unemployment, and underdevelopment.

The ADC Warri South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Excel Otonne Ololo, who was also present at the meeting, reaffirmed his support and solidarity to the party, assuring that he would support Hon. Obioru in driving his people-centred development policy as he gears up to represent the good people of Delta South Senatorial District at the Senate, in 2027.

He described Obioru, as a trusted and illustrious son of the soil whose political ambition inspires hope, inclusivity and promises impactful representation to catalyse socioeconomic and infrastructural development in Delta South to improve the wellbeing of the people.

In the same vein, Hon. Obioru’s brother, Mr. Toju Obioru strongly pledged support to his brother’s political ambition, describing his it as a well thought out initiative driven by good vision that places premium on people-centered leadership.

In his remarks, the Delta State ADC Chairman, Engr. Okolie commended Hon. Obioru for his commitment to the growth of the party, describing him as a vibrant leader whose ideas and grassroots engagement mechanism aligns with ADC’s vision of inclusiveness, accountability, and transformative leadership.

He expressed the need to harmonize the diverse interests within ADC and position the party as a viable entity that entrenches transparent political culture in the state.

As preparations intensify in Nigeria, ahead of the 2027 elections and alliances being formed, Hon. Obioru’s engagement with ADC party leadership marks an important milestone in rallying support, strengthening structure, and reinforcing his unwavering commitment to offer bold ideas to catalyse united action under the ADC

Ukodhiko Rallies Owhe Clan Leaders, Flags Off Electricity Infrastructure Upgrade

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

The Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has called on members of the Owhe Clan to remain united in the pursuit of peace and development, stressing that progress can only be achieved through collective effort.

Ukodhiko made the call during a meeting with President Generals (PGs) and political leaders from the Owhe Clan, where issues of unity, progress, and infrastructural development were extensively discussed.

He urged participants to take the message of peace and unity back to their respective wards and communities, noting that collaboration remains the surest path to growth.

The federal lawmaker also announced the commencement of work on the long-awaited upgrade of Owhe Clan’s electricity infrastructure from 11kVA to 33kVA, a project captured in the 2025 Appropriation Act. According to him, the project was awarded following the approval of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), with contractors already mobilised to site, beginning from the Otor-Igho axis.

“The upgrade will significantly enhance electricity supply, improve voltage stability, and boost socio-economic activities across all Owhe communities,” Ukodhiko stated.

He disclosed that although the project is estimated to cost between ₦350 million and ₦435 million, only ₦200 million was appropriated in the national budget. He, however, expressed optimism that the project would be completed on schedule through his personal commitment and intervention, with support from the Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba.

Ukodhiko described the initiative as part of his contribution to the delivery of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s *MORE Agenda* for the people of Delta State.

He further commended Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba, Chief John Araka, Dr. Patrick Akporunno, Engr. Blessing Ugoh, Hon. Daniel Tutumor Daniel, Mr. Richard Isagba, Engr. Prosper Erah, Engr. Festus Akponovo, Engr. Peter Odunwa, Dame Mrs. Mimi Igbrude, and the various Owhe Clan PGs for their support and active participation in the engagement.

Building Smart Economies, Delivering Renewable Hope that Lasts Requires More Than New Policies or Digital Tools – Prof Akpotu

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Isoko Nation News
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By Marvis Osiobe-Eterigho

Prof Christopher Akpotu, the Isoko Development Union (IDU) President-General and Dean of Faculty of Science, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa, has said leading a transition that lasts, especially in the context of building smart economies and delivering renewable hope, requires more than new policies or digital tools.

He said this while delivering an address of the Keynote Speaker,  Prof. Muhammad A. Mainoma, at the 19th Annual International Conference/AGM of the Academy of Management Nigeria (TAMN), held last Wednesday in Southern Delta University, (SDU) Ozoro.

According to him, leadership transition requires a fundamental shift in how leaders think, act and institutionalize values.

“The MAINOMA framework (Mindset, Accountability, Integrity, National interest, Openness, Meritocracy, Adaptability) offers a culturally grounded, operationally practical model for this shift. It is not simply a list of virtues, but a governing discipline which differentiates between digitizing dysfunction and engineering true transformation.”.

Speaking further, he described smart economy as a system where digital technologies, innovation and data analytics are integrated to enhance economic performance, public service delivery and societal well-being.

“In smart economy, the emphasis is on optimizing systems, whether transport, health, education, finance or utilities by making them more efficient, user-responsive, environmentally conscious and economically productive.

“The core idea is that innovation must not be ornamental or elitist; it must solve real problems such as youth unemployment, infrastructural deficits and financial exclusion”.

He added that “Smart economy is the operating engine of national transformation, linking what is technologically possible to what is developmentally necessary”.

Prof Akpotu further gave an array of key development accelerators which includes; access and inclusion, knowledge-driven innovation, accountability and governance, resilient infrastructure and green transition, and opportunities for youth and future generations.

“To build a smart and responsive economy, institutional frameworks must be reengineered for effectiveness, speed and accountability.

“Institutional renewal calls for redefining roles, aligning mandates with measurable outcomes and introducing performance contacts for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)”.

Also speaking at the event was the President of the Academy of Management Nigeria (TAMN), Prof Seth Accra Jaja who pointed out that the conference was not just to make Southern Delta University Ozoro as participants but as partners.

Highlight of the conference was the induction of 21 luminaries as Fellows in TAMN.

Dignitaries present were Prof. Jacob Snapps Oboreh, the Vice Chancellor  of SDU, Ozoro; Prof Seth Accra Jaja, the President of TAMN; Rt. Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko, House of Representatives member; Prof Christopher Akpotu amongst others.

INVESTMENT DRIVE: Oborevwori, Jampur Group in Talks to Boost Power, Fertilizer Production in Delta 

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Isoko Nation News
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, advanced his administration’s investment drive with a strategic meeting with the Jampur Group, aimed at unlocking transformative projects in agriculture, and electricity, with due slant on renewable energy.

The meeting, held at Government House, Asaba, centred on concrete investment plans to boost power generation and fertilizer production to significantly boost Delta’s industrial base, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen the state’s revenue streams.
Speaking after the engagement, Governor Oborevwori underscored the importance of end-to-end power solutions for sustainable development.
“We had a very successful meeting with the Jampur Group. We discussed gas-powered electricity, from production, transmission, and distribution to ensure Delta State is not only energy-sufficient but also able to power its growth,” the governor said.
The discussions spanned several key areas, including gas-powered electricity generation and distribution, smart metering systems for homes and industries, fertilizer blending plant to boost agriculture, and a solar panel plant to drive renewable energy adoption.
According to the governor, the proposals hold enormous potential to accelerate economic growth, reduce dependence on external power sources, and expand industrial activities in Delta State.
He added that the state’s economic management team had been directed to work closely with Jampur Group to identify viable areas of partnership.
Jampur Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohammad Shafiq, described the engagement as promising, noting that Delta State “stands out” because of the enabling legal framework provided by Nigeria’s new Electricity Act of 2023, which allows states to generate and regulate their own power.
He said: “It was a very nice meeting we had with the governor. We discussed power generation, agriculture through fertilizer blending, electric assembly meters, and solar panel manufacturing.
“Our immediate plan is to commence with a floating power board of 100 megawatts, similar to what we have in Lagos,” Shafiq explained.
He emphasized that reliable power is the foundation of industrial expansion and job creation, pointing out that investments in power would naturally spur the demand for smart meters, boost revenue for the state, and create massive employment opportunities.

On why Delta was chosen for such significant investments, Shafiq pointed to the state’s readiness and the opportunities created by the domestication of the new electricity law in Delta.
“Delta State is positioned to benefit from this new law, and that is why we requested a meeting with the governor. Power is the key to unlocking economic growth, and Delta has the potential to lead in this area,” he said.
The partnership discussions with Jampur Group form part of Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, designed to expand opportunities, modernize infrastructure, and reposition Delta as a leading investment destination in Nigeria.
If actualized, the projects promise not only to strengthen Delta’s energy sector but also to transform its agricultural and industrial landscapes, ensuring inclusive growth and prosperity for its citizens.

Oborevwori Tasks LGs on Performance, Security as Delta Councillors’ Forum Holds Landmark Symposium

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Isoko Nation News
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has tasked Local Government Chairmen and Councillors across the state to seize the opportunities inherent in the prevalent principle of financial autonomy to drive sustainable grassroots development, tackle insecurity, and improve service delivery to the people.

Speaking at the Delta State Councillors Forum Symposium 2025 held on Wednesday held in Asaba, with the theme “Repositioning the Grassroots: Strengthening Local Governance for Sustainable Development in Nigeria in the Wake of Local Government Autonomy,” the Governor commended the Forum for initiating what he described as “a timely and consequential dialogue at this defining moment of Nigeria’s democracy.”
Governor Oborevwori said the recent Supreme Court judgement granting full financial autonomy to local governments was a constitutional milestone that now removes every excuse for non-performance.
“With this autonomy, it is expected that development at the grassroots will be enhanced and unhindered by political interference or administrative bottlenecks. Chairmen and councillors must now deliver on their mandate without excuses,” the Governor declared.
While commending many councillors for their dedication and the commissioning of projects across the state, he insisted that there was still room for improvement, particularly in tackling poverty, unemployment, environmental decay, and waste management.
On security, Oborevwori reminded council leaders that “safety is a shared responsibility that must begin from the wards. “If councillors and chairmen work closely, they will gather intelligence that will help security agencies respond effectively.
“Councils must be proactive, not reactive,” he said, announcing plans to resume statewide town hall meetings in 2026 to keep the people abreast of what government has done, what it has not done and what it planned to do.
The Governor also addressed issues of councillors’ welfare, clarifying that adjustments to salaries were made in line with Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) regulations following Auditor-General queries, not arbitrary reductions.
He, however, highlighted improvements, including severance benefits now payable in installments before tenure expiration.
On constituency projects, Oborevwori directed Local Government chairmen to always carry councillors along and ensure ward-based projects are executed to reflect true representation.
He urged councils to embrace civility in tax and levy collection by engaging properly trained personnel.
Governor Oborevwori declared the symposium open, urging councillors to remain dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities and uphold the dignity of their office.
“Councilorship is about service, sacrifice, and accountability. It is the bridge between government and the people. This symposium must mark a turning point for grassroots governance in Delta State,” he affirmed.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Delta State Councillors Forum and Leader of Warri South-West Legislative Arm, Mr Samuel Ekpemupolo, described the symposium as “the voice of the grassroots,” stressing that autonomy must translate into greater accountability and visible impact in communities.
He called on the Delta State Government and House of Assembly to align state laws with the Supreme Court’s ruling on four-year tenure for local councils.
Ekpemupolo also called for dignified recognition of councillors as lawmakers at the local level, lamenting that councilorship was being reduced to “a mere empowerment scheme.”
The event featured keynote presentations by the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, alongside other development experts, and was attended by political leaders, lawmakers, board members, and representatives of partner organisations.

Oborevwori Urges Peace, Unity in Warri, Warns Against Social Media Incitement

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Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on leaders and elders of Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to shun divisive tendencies and embrace peace, stressing that unity remains the only path to sustainable development in Warri and Delta State at large.

Speaking at the funeral service of the late Mrs. Grace Agbolayah at the African Church, Central Missionary Diocese, Warri, the Governor warned against the misuse of social media to fuel crisis and spread falsehood.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Warri, noting that as governor, he would not take sides but serve the interests of all Deltans.

“In all, what we need is unity. I have witnessed crisis and I know its consequences. People are using social media to cause problems, this must stop. I want to develop Warri because this is my home, and some of the young people today have not enjoyed the Warri we experienced back then,” Oborevwori said.

Recalling his personal experience during a past crisis, the Governor revealed that his father’s house in Igoruwe was spared from destruction simply because it bore the inscription, “‘Sheriff Papa House”, while neighboring homes were razed.

He described the incident as a lesson on the devastating impact of conflict on communities.

The Governor, who declared “Warri dey sweet me for body,” emphasized his deep connection to the city, adding that he has no other home outside Warri.

“I am a man with street credibility and local content, not from the diaspora. Now that I am Governor, I am a Governor for all, and I will not take sides,” he stressed.

Oborevwori reaffirmed his resolve to fast-track development across the state, assuring that he would not disappoint Deltans.

“I want to do more for Deltans. I don’t want to fail. I will continue to show love to the people and deep respect for our leaders,” he added.

He urged critics to exercise restraint, particularly those outside the state who attempt to sow seeds of discord. He also called on parents and guardians to caution their children against misusing social media for hate campaigns.
Paying tribute to the late Mrs. Agbolayah, the Governor described her as a shining example of faith, integrity, and commitment to family.

“Mama came, saw, and conquered. She served God faithfully and raised her children well, with one now a bishop. My prayer is that the wisdom with which Mama raised you will also guide you in raising your children,” he said.

Earlier, His Eminence Julius Olayinka Abbe, Primate of the African Church, in a sermon titled “Fight a Good Fight” from II Timothy 4:7, urged Christians to live as beacons of peace and integrity in a world filled with darkness.

He admonished believers to be nation-builders, steadfast in faith, and accountable to God.

The Primate described the late Mrs. Agbolayah as a God-fearing woman devoted to service, who left behind a lasting legacy.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for his contributions to the family, particularly the appointment of Dr. Toyin Agbolayah as Special Adviser on Community Development, which he said strengthened the family during Mama’s lifetime.

Commending the Governor’s leadership, the Primate said: “Your Excellency, you are doing a great job, and from the way you are going, Delta State will soon compete with Lagos in infrastructure. The people of Delta love you and we pray that God strengthens you to do more.”
The funeral service was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the State Executive Council, and other top government functionaries.

CULTURAL REVIVAL: My passion for Isoko movies driven by the need to revive the fading Isoko tradition – Akporero

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Isoko Nation News
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By Merit Otadi

An Ozoro-born Actor and Founder of Isoko Nollywood Television, Mr. Vincent Great Akporero, has said his passion for Isoko movies is driven by the need to revive the fading Isoko tradition.

Akporero, a member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria and a Coordinator of 9son Movies, made the statement during an interview with our reporter, stating that his love for acting dates back to his primary school days, where he featured in stage dramas.

Speaking further, he stated that ever since then, he has continued to build his career, upgraded himself to be versatile and confident in interpreting any role assigned to him, stressing that the fast-rising Isoko Nollywood TV was created to give the Isoko ethnic group a strong voice in Nigeria’s film industry.

He explained that he prefers to feature in Isoko movies because of the urgent need to revive the dying tradition of his people, that “Acting Isoko movies will bring back our lost tradition,” emphasizing that film is a powerful tool for cultural preservation.

While acknowledging the progress made so far, he lamented that Isoko Nollywood TV is growing but not as fast as expected due to lack of support from community leaders.

He however expressed optimism that with the backing of renowned personalities, the platform could dominate Nollywood nationwide.

Looking to the future, Akporero expressed his ambition to leave a lasting legacy as a pioneer of Isoko Nollywood.

“I want to be remembered as a hero of Isoko Nollywood — someone who used film to preserve our culture and identity,” he said.
“With this vision, I will continue to use my talent not only to entertain but also to sustain the cultural heritage of the Isoko people for future generations”, he added.

Oborevwori Hails DEPOWA’s Humanitarian Drive, Assures Support for Widows of Fallen Heroes

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Isoko Nation News
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By Michael Ilaya

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has commended the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) for its humanitarian initiatives aimed at supporting widows and children of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, pledging his administration’s full support for their programmes.
The Governor gave the assurance on Wednesday when he received the President of DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, and her delegation at Government House, Asaba.
Welcoming the team, Oborevwori described Mrs. Musa as a proud daughter of Delta, recalling his long-standing relationship with the Musa family and expressed delight that she has chosen Asaba as the venue for DEPOWA’s empowerment seminar for widows drawn from Delta, Edo, Anambra, and Enugu States.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome you home. Your commitment to uplifting the families of our fallen heroes is deeply commendable. As a government, we are proud to be associated with initiatives that give hope, skills, and opportunities to widows, helping them to build sustainable livelihoods,” the Governor said.
Oborevwori noted that his administration had only last month empowered 10,000 widows across Delta State through skills training, financial grants to enable them start small-scale businesses and free access to medical care.
He stressed that the sacrifices of fallen heroes must never be forgotten, adding that the state would continue to champion causes that secure a brighter future for their families.
Earlier, Mrs. Musa said DEPOWA was a coalition of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA), and Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).
She explained that the group, founded to support members whose spouses are often away on national duty, has evolved into a platform for humanitarian and development services, with widows and orphans of fallen heroes as its main beneficiaries.
Highlighting their ongoing training seminar for widows, Mrs. Musa said the programme was designed to provide emotional support, empowerment opportunities, and financial literacy for participants, while easing the pain of grief and loss.
She also announced the establishment of the DEPOWA Future Leadership Academy in Abuja, set for commissioning in September 2026, which will provide automatic scholarships for children of fallen heroes as a lasting tribute to their parents’ sacrifices.
“Your Excellency, we are profoundly grateful for your impactful youth and women empowerment initiatives which align with our vision. With the DEPOWA Future Leadership Academy, we hope to build a living legacy for generations to come,” she said.
The visit, she noted, was also part of DEPOWA’s ongoing “Thank You Campaign”, a national initiative to celebrate and support Nigeria’s Armed Forces and Police personnel for their selfless service to the country.

Gen. Paul Omu for Burial Nov. 29, Ex-Delta SSG, Macaulay Chairs Burial Committee

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Isoko Nation News
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By Kelvin Ohoror

Former Military Governor of the South-Eastern State, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), OFR, will be laid to rest on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in his hometown of Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

General Omu, who passed on April 29 at the age of 84, was a distinguished military officer, statesman, and community leader.

A former member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council and one-time Commander of the Command and Staff College, he was renowned for his strategic roles in the Nigerian Army and his pivotal contributions to Nigeria’s governance and democratic transition.

The funeral ceremonies will begin on Thursday, November 20, with a Service of Songs at All Saints Church, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, followed by a commemoration service on Tuesday, November 25, at St. Philips Anglican Church, Asaba. A lecture and day of tributes will hold on Thursday, November 27, at Isoko House, Oleh, while lying-in-state and service of songs will take place on Friday, November 28, in Isoko South.

The final rites on Saturday, November 29, will commence with a lying-in-state at his residence, Ufuoma House, Igbide, before a funeral service at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Igbide. A thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, November 30, at the same church.

In recognition of his contributions to the development of Isoko ethnic nationality and the nation at large, a broad-based burial planning committee has been inaugurated, with former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, serving as Chairman and President General of Igbide Community Development Association, Ven. Hon. Augustine Aziakpono Ovie as Secretary.

The committee comprises prominent figures from the military, politics, academia, and the Isoko nation, with subcommittees overseeing security, media, protocol, accommodation, entertainment, tributes, finance, and other arrangements.

General Omu’s distinguished career spanned military, political, and community service.

As Military Governor of the South-Eastern State from 1975 to 1978, he initiated key infrastructural and policy reforms that laid the foundation for regional growth.

His later roles included chairing the Governing Board of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in 2009.

Beyond public service, he was deeply involved in community development, notably serving as President of the Isoko Development Union between 2014 and 2015, where he championed unity, education, and economic empowerment.

The Olodi of Igbide Kingdom and Othuke of Isoko Land, General Omu is remembered as a man of vision, diplomacy, and enduring legacy in both national and community service.

Hon. Warri Charges NOA to Upscale Efforts in Discharge Duties to Avert Disasters

By
Isoko Nation News
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By Matthew Unyove

The Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area Comrade Friday Warri has tasked government intervention agency, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to redoubled their efforts in terms of quick response to emergencies whenever they occur.
Comrade Friday Warri gave the charge Wednesday in his office at Oleh, headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State while playing host to the Delta State Chapter of the NOA officials that paid him a courtesy and advocacy visit.
The Council Boss pointed out, that timely response from the intervention Agencies would mitigate a lot of striking disasters from having greater negative impact on the citizenry.
He however, seek greater collaboration with NOA to do more in the area of awareness creation especially at the grass root level.
Earlier, the state Director of National Orientation Agency, Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi had intimidated the council Chairman of the purpose of their visit which includes termetic sensitization in five areas of enlightenment of government policies and activities for secondary and tertiary institutions, flood mitigation, National values for Nigeria project and the National symbols including the National Anthem.
Mrs.  Ikolomi, stated further that the Federal government has approved and adopted a National Prayer for all national events in the Federation, which she emphasized as the third stanza of the National Anthem.
She also stated that they are intensifying efforts on National security awareness towards improving security sensitization in the communities.
The NOA State Director was accompanied on the visit by Mrs.  Patricia Umuna, Deputy Director of human resources, and Mrs Agatha Ojogho Deputy Director in the agency.

Others include Mrs. Evelyn Akpotu, Deputy Director, Mr Lawrence Jadomi Deputy Director and Mr Ben Avre, Assistant Director in the Agency.

Present during the sensitization visit were Hon Zino Osuofa,  Secretary to the Local Government, Mrs Ewoma Okweri, Deputy Director of Information Isoko South and Comrade Matthew Unyove Deputy Director of Information Isoko South Local Government.

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