By: ACNPN
The Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (ACNPN), Delta State Council, has congratulated the 25 Local Government Chairmen in Delta State on the successful completion of two years in office, urging them to redouble efforts toward sustainable development, human capital advancement, and improved service delivery to the people.
In a statement made available to journalists, the State Chairman of the association, Comrade Ike Philip Abiagom described the second anniversary of the council administrations as a significant milestone that offers an opportunity for reflection on achievements recorded so far, while also serving as a platform for renewed commitment to people-oriented governance across the state.
ACNPN commended the chairmen for their contributions to grassroots development since assuming office on July 15, 2024, noting that many local government councils have recorded visible progress in infrastructure development, community empowerment, healthcare delivery, education, and rural development.
The association urged the council leaders to articulate and implement comprehensive short-term and long-term development strategies capable of accelerating sustainable growth and improving living standards in communities across Delta State.
According to the statement, priority attention should continue to be given to critical sectors such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, security, environmental sustainability, youth development, and economic empowerment.
The association emphasized that youth empowerment, vocational and skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship development, women’s empowerment initiatives, quality education, and employment creation remain essential pillars for sustainable development and social stability.
ACNPN particularly lauded several council chairmen for their outstanding performances and impactful leadership at the grassroots level.
Among those recognized were the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Innocent Ifeanyi Esewezie, whose administration completed the Okpanam Cottage Hospital project. The health facility was named after the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, in recognition of his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda and commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare services.
The association also commended the Executive Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Vincent Osilonya, for the construction of the new Council Secretariat Annex Complex in Ashaka, a project aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency while reaffirming Aboh as the official headquarters of the local government.
Other chairmen acknowledged for notable achievements include Hon. Augustine Ogedegbe of Ethiope East, Hon. Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili of Oshimili South, Hon. Godwin Ogorugba of Isoko North, and Hon. Jerry Ehiwarior of Ika South, among others, whose administrations have recorded remarkable grassroots-oriented projects and programmes.
ACNPN noted that many local government councils have undertaken extensive road rehabilitation projects, construction and renovation of public facilities, rural electrification initiatives, and community development programmes designed to improve the welfare of residents.
The association further praised the chairmen for implementing various empowerment programmes, including the distribution of farming inputs, support for small-scale businesses, educational assistance, and other poverty-reduction initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of the people.
It also highlighted the growing synergy between the local government councils and the Delta State Government under Governor Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda, noting that such collaboration has helped extend development projects and government interventions to rural and previously underserved communities.
While congratulating the chairmen on their second anniversary in office, ACNPN urged them not to relent in their efforts but to build on existing achievements by pursuing policies and programmes that will leave lasting impacts on the lives of the people.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible journalism and supporting initiatives that foster development, accountability, and good governance across Delta State.
“Two years in office is a worthy milestone. However, the expectations of the people remain high. We encourage all council chairmen to consolidate on their achievements and continue to deliver dividends of democracy that will uplift communities, empower citizens, and drive sustainable development across Delta State,” the statement concluded.