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AAC Governorship Candidate Eshor Pledges Free Education, ₦50,000 Monthly Allowance for Teachers in Delta

The governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in Delta State, Engr. Isaac Eshor, has unveiled an ambitious education reform agenda, promising free education from primary to secondary school level and a ₦50,000 monthly special allowance for teachers if elected governor.

Eshor made the pledge during an interactive session with Journalists and Community Newspaper Publishers in Asaba, where he described education as the foundation of sustainable development and the key to building a prosperous Delta State.

The AAC flag bearer lamented the deteriorating condition of public schools across the state, blaming years of neglect, inadequate infrastructure, and poor welfare packages for the challenges facing the education sector.

According to him, many teachers work in difficult and unconducive environments, lacking basic facilities such as classrooms, furniture, electricity, and teaching materials.

Our teachers operate under harsh conditions. In many schools, there are no chairs, tables, electricity, or conducive classrooms. It is difficult to expect excellent results when teachers are not adequately supported, Eshor said. He noted that private schools continue to attract more students because they offer better learning environments and improved welfare conditions for their staff.

Describing teachers as the backbone of society, Eshor stressed that every profession depends on the efforts of teachers, yet many educators have been subjected to poor remuneration and neglect.

Without teachers, there can be no doctors, engineers, lawyers, nurses, or other professionals. Unfortunately, many teachers have been pushed into hardship, making it difficult for them to give their best, he added.

To address the situation, Eshor pledged that every public primary and secondary school teacher in Delta State would receive a special monthly allowance of ₦50,000 in addition to their regular salaries. He disclosed that his administration would also introduce teacher-focused welfare programmes, including housing schemes, grants, and soft car loans aimed at restoring dignity and pride to the profession.

The AAC candidate further expressed concern over the plight of retired teachers, alleging that many are still awaiting payment of their pensions years after retirement.

It is unacceptable that retired teachers who dedicated their lives to shaping future generations are still struggling to access their pensions. Such injustice must end, he stated.

As part of his education blueprint, Eshor promised free education from primary to secondary school level, including free school uniforms and free textbooks for pupils and students in public schools.

He argued that quality education remains the most effective tool for reducing poverty, unemployment, and social inequality, adding that investment in education would yield long-term benefits for the state.

Eshor assured Deltans that prudent management of the state’s resources would make the implementation of the programme achievable, while significantly improving learning standards and educational outcomes.

He maintained that investing in teachers is ultimately an investment in the future of Delta State, stressing that a motivated teaching workforce would produce better students and drive sustainable development across the state.

APPMEN to Host Nigeria’s Media Owners, Content Creators at 2026 National Conference in Abuja

ABUJA – The Association of Proprietors of Private Media Establishments of Nigeria (APPMEN) has announced plans to host its 2026 One-Day Conference, bringing together media owners, digital content creators, policymakers, regulators, corporate organizations, and development partners to discuss the future of Nigeria’s media industry.

The conference, themed “APPMEN: Voice, Vision, Purpose,” is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju Hall, beside the TETFund Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja.

According to a statement issued by the conference planning committee, the event is aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s private media and digital content ecosystem as a strategic driver of national development, responsible journalism, economic growth, and job creation.

The organisers noted that in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, where information spreads within seconds, collaboration, professional development, and institutional partnerships are essential for building sustainable and credible media platforms.

The conference will feature two major sessions.

The morning session will focus on capacity building and policy discussions, with masterclasses delivered by legal experts, media scholars, and industry practitioners. Participants will also engage in a panel discussion on “The Future of Nigerian Media: Policy, Platforms and Purpose,” followed by interactive question-and-answer sessions, stakeholder commitments, and the adoption of a communiqué.

The evening session will feature a gala night and cocktail aimed at celebrating excellence within the media industry. Activities will include an investiture ceremony, awards presentation to distinguished Nigerians, the unveiling of ambassadors for “The Leadership We Want” Campaign, and the official presentation of the maiden edition of the APPMEN Magazine.

The association called on the Federal Government, state governments, regulatory agencies, corporate organisations, development partners, and media support institutions to support the initiative through sponsorships and strategic partnerships.

According to APPMEN, funds raised through partnerships will support media capacity-building programmes, creator training, legal aid initiatives, media safety programmes, and projects designed to amplify Nigerian stories on the global stage.

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Felix Onuah, APPMEN FCT Council Coordinator and Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, described the conference as more than an event, saying it represents a movement to build an ethical, profitable, and patriotic media industry.

The statement was jointly endorsed by Chief Precious Enebuse, APPMEN National Coordinator.

APPMEN is the umbrella association representing owners and operators of private media establishments across Nigeria, with a mandate to promote professionalism, defend press freedom, strengthen capacity, and reinforce the role of private media in advancing democracy and national development.

Obi Ajudua, Queen Vivian Bring Global Honour to Anioma at International Igbo Cultural Festival in America

The revered royal couple of Igbuzo Kingdom, Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, Obi Eze Udo I of Igbuzo, and his wife, Obi Okpoho Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua, have once again made Anioma Nation proud following their distinguished participation in the 2026 CISA Annual Igbo Worldwide Festival of Arts and Culture in the United States.

The royal couple attended the prestigious international gathering as Royal Guests of Honour and Cultural Ambassadors, representing the historic Igbuzo Kingdom and the entire Anioma region of Delta State, Nigeria.

Held from July 31 to August 1, 2026, at Selden Park, Brunswick, and the historic Igbo Landing on St. Simons Island, Georgia, the two-day festival brought together traditional rulers, scholars, professionals, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the African diaspora in a grand celebration of Igbo heritage, history, and identity.

With the theme, “Global Igbo Unification: Healing the Broken Circle,” the festival focused on strengthening ties between Igbo communities in Nigeria and their descendants across the world while promoting cultural preservation, unity, and development.

The participation of Obi Ajudua and Obi Okpoho underscored the growing role of Anioma in advancing the global conversation on Igbo unity, cultural preservation, and community development. Their presence highlighted the rich traditions, values, and cultural heritage of the Igbuzo people and reinforced the enduring historical and spiritual connections that bind Ndi Igbo across continents.

Beyond their traditional responsibilities, the royal couple are widely recognized as the President and Managing Director of Vebron Carre Conglomerates, a multinational organization with interests in healthcare, education, philanthropy, business development, and community empowerment in both Nigeria and the United States. Through numerous humanitarian initiatives, they have earned widespread admiration for their commitment to improving lives and preserving cultural values.

One of the most significant moments of the festival was the pilgrimage to the historic Igbo Landing, where participants paid tribute to the courageous Igbo captives of 1803 whose resistance against enslavement remains a powerful symbol of freedom, dignity, courage, and resilience.

The royal couple joined His Majesty Eze Chukwuemeka Eri (Eze Ndi Igbo), CISA President Echiemeze Ofili, Planning Committee Chairman Emeka Nwosu, Director of Publicity and Media Chief Mathias Mgbeafulu, and other traditional rulers and dignitaries from across the globe in remembrance ceremonies, traditional prayers, cultural processions, and historical reflections.

The festival also featured traditional music, drumming, masquerade displays, cultural dances, exhibitions of Igbo arts and crafts, storytelling sessions, leadership forums, diaspora development discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at promoting cultural identity and economic collaboration.

Observers noted that the presence of the Igbuzo royal couple elevated the profile of Anioma culture on the global stage and further strengthened efforts to preserve and promote the heritage of the Igbo people worldwide.

Participants described CISA 2026 as more than a cultural festival, but a powerful reaffirmation of a shared heritage and collective destiny, inspiring Ndi Igbo everywhere to embrace their history, celebrate their identity, and build stronger bridges of unity for generations yet unborn.

For Igbuzo and the wider Anioma Nation, the outstanding representation by Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua and Obi Okpoho Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua remains a source of pride and a testament to the kingdom’s growing influence in promoting cultural diplomacy, unity, and development across the global Igbo community.

Obasanjo’s ‘Biggest Regret’ Remark Triggers Explosive Response as Atiku Says, “I Received and Clothed Him After Prison”

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has responded to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s claim that selecting him as vice president remains his greatest political regret, saying he stood by the former leader during one of the most difficult periods of his life.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said he was saddened—not angered—by Obasanjo’s remarks, insisting that history would fairly judge the relationship between them.

According to Atiku, he supported Obasanjo’s family while the former president was imprisoned and worked alongside other patriots to secure his release.

“When he eventually regained his freedom, he had little to his name. I received him, clothed him, ensured he was properly cared for, and extended every support necessary to help him regain his footing,” Atiku said.

The statement followed comments made by Obasanjo on Friday during the unveiling of activist Charly Boy’s foundation and memoir in Lagos, where the former president described his decision to pick Atiku as his running mate in the 1999 presidential election as his greatest political regret.

Obasanjo said that based on what he later came to know about Atiku, he would never have chosen him as vice president. He, however, expressed gratitude that Atiku’s actions did not harm Nigeria or derail his administration, adding that despite their political differences, he harboured no personal bitterness toward his former deputy.

The relationship between the two leaders deteriorated during Obasanjo’s second term in office, leading to years of public exchanges and allegations bordering on corruption, abuse of office, and political betrayal.

Reacting to the latest comments, Atiku linked Obasanjo’s criticism to his refusal to support the controversial third-term agenda, maintaining that he remained proud of his role in defending Nigeria’s Constitution and democracy.

“If Chief Obasanjo’s resentment stems from my refusal to support the third-term agenda, then I wear that as a badge of honour. No individual is greater than the Constitution,” he said.

Atiku argued that resisting the third-term bid was a collective effort by patriotic Nigerians to protect democratic governance, adding that history had vindicated those who opposed the proposal.

He also referenced recent remarks attributed to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who reportedly described the economic management team he led during the Obasanjo administration as one of Nigeria’s best.

While stressing that he had no regrets about supporting Obasanjo after his release from prison, Atiku cautioned against attempts to rewrite history. He expressed disappointment that old political disagreements were being revisited at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic hardship, unemployment, and insecurity.

He concluded by saying that although he had exercised restraint over the years out of respect for Obasanjo’s former office, “history cannot be rewritten by bitterness or repeated falsehoods,” adding that the Nigerian people and history would ultimately deliver the final verdict.

Xenophobia: Oborevwori Approves ₦2m Grant, Monthly Stipends for Delta Returnees from South Africa

ASABA – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved a comprehensive welfare package for Deltans evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, including a ₦2 million grant for each affected family and monthly stipends to aid their rehabilitation and reintegration.

Under the package, each returnee will receive a monthly welfare stipend of ₦200,000, while every affected family will receive ₦300,000 monthly, beginning in August 2026 until the end of the governor’s first tenure on May 29, 2027.

Speaking during the reception for the returnees at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, condemned the xenophobic attacks, describing them as a grave violation of human dignity.

He stressed that no individual should be subjected to violence, intimidation or discrimination because of nationality, while expressing sympathy to the victims for the physical, emotional and financial losses they suffered.

The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift intervention, which facilitated the safe evacuation of the affected Nigerians from South Africa.

As part of the support package, Governor Oborevwori announced that all returnees would receive free medical screening at government-owned health facilities.

He also directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Services to provide trauma counselling and psychosocial support for the victims and their families.

Calling on Deltans to welcome the returnees with compassion and solidarity, the governor said the unfortunate incident should not define their future, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for all citizens and protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerians living abroad.

Earlier, the Commissioner in charge of the Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Ejiro Etacherure, assured the returnees of the state government’s commitment to helping them rebuild their lives, describing their safe return as evidence of compassionate leadership and effective collaboration between the federal and state governments.

He recalled that reports of the attacks, which claimed lives, destroyed property and livelihoods, and left many victims traumatised, were received with deep shock and sadness.

Etacherure thanked Governor Oborevwori for his prompt intervention and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the returnees, disclosing that the governor personally directed that every returning Deltan be identified, documented and received with dignity while relevant agencies were mobilised to support their reintegration.

Welcoming them home, he encouraged the returnees to take advantage of the state’s economic and empowerment opportunities, expressing confidence that Delta remains a land of opportunity under the Oborevwori administration.

Responding on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Jacob Agbada expressed profound appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for approving the ₦2 million grant and monthly stipends, describing the intervention as timely, compassionate and life-changing.

He thanked the governor for standing by them during one of the most difficult moments of their lives and pledged that the beneficiaries would make productive use of the support to rebuild their future.

2027: Integrity Group, Ukodo Nation Unite, Launch Grassroots Campaign for Oborevwori, Tinubu

The Chairman of the Delta State Chapter of the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Comrade Dr. Bolum Martin Nwachukwu, has described the re-election of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as essential, stating that the governor has demonstrated purposeful leadership and remains committed to delivering sustainable development across the state.

Dr. Bolum made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Founder and Chairman of Ukodo Nation, Chief (Dr.) Morrison Olori (JP), whose political support group is championing the re-election of Governor Oborevwori and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The visit culminated in a strategic alliance between the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, and Ukodo Nation, with both organisations pledging to collaborate in mobilising grassroots support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates under the #APC5Over5 campaign.

Addressing members of the support group, Dr. Bolum said the Integrity Group would intensify mobilisation efforts across Delta State in support of Governor Oborevwori, President Tinubu and all APC candidates contesting the 2027 elections.

According to him, Governor Oborevwori has distinguished himself through pragmatic leadership, people-centred policies and a commitment to inclusive development. He added that the administration has recorded visible progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education, rural development, youth and women empowerment, agriculture and economic growth across the state’s three senatorial districts.

He further stated that the governor’s style of governance has strengthened peace, political inclusiveness and public confidence while ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach communities across Delta State.

“The re-election of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is essential because he has earned the trust and confidence of the people through performance and responsible leadership.

His administration has remained focused on policies that directly improve the lives of ordinary Deltans while laying a solid foundation for long-term economic growth and sustainable development.

“Across the state, ongoing infrastructure projects, investments in healthcare and education, youth empowerment programmes and rural development initiatives have demonstrated a clear commitment to good governance. These achievements have strengthened public confidence in his administration and positioned Delta State on a path of continuous progress.

“We believe continuity is essential to consolidate these gains. Governor Oborevwori has shown capacity, vision and humility in leadership while maintaining a cordial working relationship with the Federal Government. Such cooperation enhances opportunities for federal interventions, attracts investment and accelerates development for the benefit of the people.

“Our resolve is unwavering. The Integrity Group of Nigeria will continue to mobilise support across every ward and local government area to ensure victory for Governor Oborevwori, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in the 2027 general elections.”

During the event, the Director-General of the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Dr. Oke Idawene, formally installed Chief (Dr.) Morrison Olori as the National Ambassador of the Integrity Group of Nigeria and conferred on him the honorary title of Father of the Integrity Group in Ughelli North in recognition of his contributions to grassroots mobilisation and political engagement.

Responding, the Founder and Chairman of Ukodo Nation, Chief (Dr.) Morrison Olori (JP), thanked the leadership and members of the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, for the courtesy visit and their commitment to building a formidable political structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Olori also commended former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for what he described as his foresight in supporting Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as his successor, noting that the decision has continued to yield positive results for the state.

According to him, Governor Oborevwori has justified the confidence reposed in him through prudent management of state resources, visionary leadership and the implementation of people-oriented programmes that have accelerated development across Delta State.

He praised the governor for executing infrastructure projects, improving healthcare and education, empowering youths and women, and extending the dividends of democracy to both urban and rural communities. He added that the governor’s inclusive style of governance has strengthened public confidence while promoting peace and unity across the state.

Chief Olori is the founder of Sparkling Breweries Limited, Olo Cold Drinks (Nigeria) Limited, Olo Plastic Industries and Oloris Hotel, Ughelli.

Among those present were Comrade Lawson Efenudu, Director of Organised Labour for the Integrity Group, Delta State; local government coordinators from Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Sapele, Isoko South, Isoko North, Patani and Okpe; the group’s Vice Chairmen for Delta Central and Delta South, the State Secretary and other executive members. The host delegation comprised Chief Olori and members of the Ukodo Nation Executive Committee.

The meeting ended with both the Integrity Group of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, and Ukodo Nation reaffirming their commitment to collaborate on grassroots mobilisation and political engagement in support of the APC and its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

NSCDC Delta Tightens Security Around Telecom Infrastructure, Reassures IHS of Unwavering Protection

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Delta State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure across the state, assuring IHS Nigeria of continued protection against vandalism and theft.

The assurance was given on Thursday when the State Commandant, Chinedu F. Igbo, received the Director of Security, AIG Ahmed Iliyasu (Rtd.), PhD, psc+, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the NSCDC Delta State Command Headquarters.

Speaking during the visit, AIG Iliyasu described the engagement as more than a routine courtesy call, calling it a “collaborative visit” aimed at strengthening the existing partnership between IHS and the Corps. He commended the NSCDC for its outstanding performance since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both organisations.

He also praised the leadership of the Delta State Command and expressed appreciation for the professionalism of its personnel and the cordial working relationship established with IHS in the state.

In his response, Commandant Chinedu Igbo, alongside the Head of the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department and other senior officers, welcomed the IHS delegation and reiterated the Command’s unwavering resolve to combat vandalism despite prevailing security challenges.

He noted that, as the lead agency responsible for the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, the NSCDC remains committed to working closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety of vital national infrastructure.

The Commandant further advised IHS to engage the services of NSCDC-licensed private guard companies to secure its Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), stating that the measure would significantly reduce incidents of vandalism and theft.

Highlighting recent achievements, he disclosed that the Command had inaugurated a dedicated CNAI Surveillance and Monitoring Team, an initiative that has already produced positive results, including the recent arrest and parade of five suspected electric cable vandals.

Commandant Igbo assured the IHS delegation of the NSCDC Delta Command’s continued support, while urging the company to remain committed to fulfilling its obligations under the existing Memorandum of Understanding.

The visit further underscored the strong collaboration between the NSCDC and IHS in protecting critical telecommunications infrastructure, enhancing public safety, and ensuring uninterrupted communication services across Delta State.

Ebu Cut Off as Collapsed Federal Road Leaves Delta’s Food Basket Isolated

EBU, DELTA STATE — Residents of Ebu Community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have raised fresh alarm over the worsening state of the only accessible federal road linking the agrarian community to neighboring towns and major commercial centers, warning that the area has been effectively cut off from the rest of the state.

Findings by Newsbreeze revealed that the already deteriorated road suffered further damage on Tuesday after repeated use by heavy-duty trailers and lorries, rendering it virtually impassable. By Wednesday morning, motorists, commuters, and farmers were reportedly stranded as movement in and out of the community became increasingly difficult.

Ebu, widely regarded as one of Delta State’s major food-producing communities, now faces a growing transportation crisis that residents say threatens agricultural production, local commerce, and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.

Residents lamented that the community has been left without a reliable access route, noting that the alternative Ebu–Ezi-Ukala Road, a state road, has remained in a deplorable condition for decades and is no longer motorable.

The worsening situation has sparked widespread frustration, with community members questioning why Ebu has continued to suffer years of infrastructural neglect despite its strategic contribution to Delta State’s food security.

“What has Ebu Community done to deserve this level of hardship?” a concerned resident asked. “We are known as one of Delta State’s food baskets, yet our roads have been abandoned for years. Today, our community is practically trapped.”

Beyond disrupting economic activities, residents warned that the road collapse now threatens access to healthcare services, schools, security agencies, and the transportation of farm produce to markets across the state.

Community leaders have therefore appealed to both the Federal Government and the Delta State Government to urgently intervene before the situation worsens.

They specifically called on Governor Sheriff Francis Oborevwori and relevant federal authorities to prioritize the rehabilitation of the federal road while also commencing the long-awaited reconstruction of the Ebu–Ezi-Ukala Road to restore access to the community.

Residents warned that continued neglect of the road infrastructure could trigger far-reaching economic and social consequences, affecting not only Ebu but also the wider agricultural supply chain that depends heavily on the community’s farm produce.

As calls for intervention intensify, the people of Ebu say they can no longer endure the hardship, urging authorities at all levels to act swiftly to reconnect the community and prevent what they describe as an unfolding humanitarian and economic emergency.

Obi Henry Ajudua, Wife Named Royal Guests of Honour at 2026 Igbo Worldwide Festival in America

The Obi of Igbuzo Kingdom, Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, and his wife, Obi Okpoho Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua, have been named Royal Guests of Honour at the 2026 Annual Igbo Worldwide Festival of Arts and Culture, organized by the Council of Igbo States in the Americas (CISA).

The royal couple will lead the Anioma delegation to the prestigious international cultural gathering, scheduled to hold on July 31 and August 1, 2026, in Brunswick and St. Simons Island, Georgia, United States.

The festival, themed “Global Igbo Unification: Healing the Broken Circle,” is expected to attract thousands of participants from Nigeria, North America, and across the global African diaspora. It aims to promote unity among Igbo communities worldwide while celebrating the resilience, achievements, and enduring cultural heritage of the Igbo people.

Obi Ajudua and Obi Okpoho Vivian Henry-Ajudua were specially invited as Royal Guests of Honour and Cultural Ambassadors in recognition of their unwavering commitment to preserving Igbo culture, advancing community development, and promoting the Anioma identity on the global stage.

As revered traditional leaders from the Anioma region of Delta State, their participation is expected to showcase the rich traditions, history, and cultural identity of the Anioma people within the larger Igbo nation.

Obi Ajudua, who is also the President and Chief Executive Officer of Vebron Carre Conglomerates, is widely recognized in Nigeria and the United States for his contributions to education, healthcare, philanthropy, youth empowerment, and community development. His wife, Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua, has also earned acclaim for her humanitarian and social development initiatives.

One of the defining moments of the festival will be a pilgrimage to the historic Igbo Landing on St. Simons Island, where participants will commemorate the heroic resistance of Igbo captives who, in 1803, chose death over enslavement—an event that remains one of the most enduring symbols of courage, freedom, and resilience in African history.

The Igbuzo royal couple will join other distinguished personalities at the event, including His Majesty Eze Chukwuemeka Eri (Eze Ndi Igbo and Ezeora 34th), CISA President Echiemeze Ofili, traditional rulers, scholars, community leaders, and members of the global Igbo diaspora.

Activities lined up for the two-day festival include traditional music and dance performances, masquerade displays, cultural exhibitions, symposiums, leadership forums, historical reflections, and networking sessions designed to strengthen cultural identity, foster economic collaboration, and inspire youth engagement.

A major highlight of the event will be the keynote address by Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, titled “Anioma: A Proud Igbo Heritage—Healing the Broken Circle Through Unity, Culture and Shared Destiny.”

The address is expected to underscore the historical significance of Anioma within the Igbo nation while advocating stronger cultural unity, heritage preservation, and collective development among Igbo communities across the world.

The participation of the Igbuzo royal couple further reflects Anioma’s growing prominence in global conversations on Igbo unity, cultural preservation, and diaspora engagement.

As final preparations are concluded, the 2026 CISA Annual Igbo Worldwide Festival of Arts and Culture is widely anticipated to be a landmark celebration of Igbo civilization, bringing together history, culture, tradition, and the global diaspora in a renewed commitment to unity, heritage, and shared destiny.

DDPA in Safe Hands: How Barr. Orevaoghene Okpokpor Is Repositioning Delta’s Property Development Agency

The provision of affordable housing and effective urban planning remains one of the fundamental responsibilities of government.

Beyond providing shelter, housing serves as a catalyst for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development. In Delta State, the Delta Development and Property Authority (DDPA) has continued to play a pivotal role in this regard, with many stakeholders attributing the agency’s renewed momentum to the leadership of its Acting Managing Director, Barr. Orevaoghene Okpokpor.

A seasoned legal practitioner and public administrator, Barr. Okpokpor has brought years of experience, institutional knowledge, and administrative discipline to the agency. Since assuming leadership of the DDPA, she has embarked on reforms aimed at repositioning the authority into a more responsive, transparent, and development-driven institution in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E. Agenda.

Barr. Okpokpor began her public service career in 2009 at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, where she rose through the ranks to become an Assistant Chief State Counsel. Her years in the ministry earned her recognition for professionalism, regulatory compliance, and sound legal judgment.

In 2019, she was deployed to the Delta Development and Property Authority as Chief Legal Officer, a position that gave her firsthand knowledge of the agency’s operational framework, challenges, and growth opportunities. This experience has proved invaluable in her current role as Acting Managing Director.

Under her leadership, the DDPA has focused on strengthening corporate governance, improving transparency in property allocation processes, safeguarding government land assets, and creating a more investor-friendly environment for real estate development across the state.

Recognizing the importance of innovation and collaboration, Barr. Okpokpor has also encouraged strategic partnerships with leading housing agencies across Nigeria. One of such initiatives was the DDPA’s engagement with the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC), where both agencies exchanged ideas on modern housing development, urban renewal strategies, and institutional best practices.

The visit provided an opportunity for the DDPA to explore innovative approaches that could further improve housing delivery and urban planning in Delta State while strengthening inter-agency cooperation.

Within the authority, Barr. Okpokpor has been credited with promoting teamwork, accountability, and a culture of professionalism.

She maintains a cordial working relationship with the Chairman of the Board, Chief Tony Oboroh, board members, management staff, and other employees, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared commitment to the agency’s objectives.

Deltans within the housing sector note that her administration has emphasized transparency, operational efficiency, and staff motivation, while reducing bureaucratic delays that often hinder effective public service delivery.
The impact of these reforms is reflected in the agency’s ongoing housing and estate development projects across the state.

Existing developments, including the DDPA Estate in Agbor, as well as projects in Asaba, Warri, Effurun, and other urban centres, continue to demonstrate the authority’s commitment to planned urban growth and sustainable housing development.
Industry stakeholders believe that by ensuring compliance with planning regulations, improving project execution, and strengthening institutional processes, the DDPA is gradually restoring public confidence in government-led housing initiatives.

As Delta State continues to pursue rapid urban development, Barr. Orevaoghene Okpokpor’s leadership is increasingly being recognized as one focused on institutional reform, innovation, and service delivery.

Through strategic planning, legal expertise, and collaborative leadership, she is helping to position the Delta Development and Property Authority as a key driver of sustainable housing and urban development in the state.

For many observers, her tenure demonstrates how effective leadership, built on professionalism and accountability, can strengthen public institutions and contribute meaningfully to the overall development of Delta State.