By : Ike Philip Abiagom- Newsbreez

The people of Igbuzo have continued to celebrate one of their most distinguished sons, Pastor Idowu Okeze (Ukpe Igbuzo), whose unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of his community has earned him widespread admiration and respect.

For many residents, Pastor Okeze is more than a philanthropist; he is a passionate community builder whose love for Igbuzo is evident in every initiative he undertakes. Those who know him closely often describe him as a man who dreams Igbuzo, thinks Igbuzo, and feels Igbuzo in everything he does.

Over the years, Pastor Okeze has consistently demonstrated an uncommon dedication to the progress of his hometown. Through his strategic engagements and relentless advocacy, he has attracted numerous developmental opportunities and interventions from the Federal Government, bringing tangible benefits to the people of Igbuzo and its surrounding communities.

These interventions have spanned various sectors, including road infrastructure, water projects, skills acquisition programmes, cooperative development, youth empowerment, and economic support initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of residents.
One of the most remarkable aspects of his humanitarian efforts is his commitment to empowering ordinary citizens. Hundreds of youths, women, artisans, traders, farmers and vulnerable members of society have benefited from programmes facilitated by Pastor Okeze, enabling them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

The latest of such interventions took place on Monday 30th August, 2026 , in what many residents have described as one of the most impactful empowerment programmes ever witnessed in the community. Under an initiative facilitated through the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, one hundred skilled individuals received financial and material support to strengthen their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
The programme attracted widespread commendation from community leaders, youths, women groups and beneficiaries, many of whom described the intervention as timely and life-changing.

Speaking at the event, beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Pastor Okeze for his consistency in touching lives and creating opportunities for the people. They noted that while many individuals make promises, Pastor Okeze has distinguished himself through action and measurable results.

Community stakeholders also praised his developmental vision, noting that his efforts have helped position Igbuzo as a beneficiary of several government programmes that might otherwise have passed the community by.
According to many residents, what sets Pastor Okeze apart is not merely the scale of his interventions but the sincerity behind them. His philanthropic activities are driven by a genuine desire to see Igbuzo grow, prosper and take its rightful place among leading communities in Delta State.

As the applause continues to pour in following the recent empowerment programme, there is a growing consensus among residents that Pastor Idowu Okeze has become a symbol of selfless service, community development and grassroots empowerment.

Indeed, in a time when many communities yearn for visionary leadership and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people, Pastor Okeze stands out as a shining example of what can be achieved when one individual dedicates his resources, influence and energy to the service of his people.

For the people of Igbuzo, the verdict is clear: Pastor Idowu Okeze is not only a philanthropist but a true ambassador of community development whose legacy of service will be remembered for generations to come.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

No fewer than 100 cooperators from Igbuzo and neighbouring communities are set to benefit from a Federal Government-backed empowerment programme facilitated by renowned philanthropist and community leader, Pastor Idowu Okeze,(Ukpe Igbuzo) in collaboration with the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River.

The empowerment programme, scheduled to hold on Monday, August 31, 2026, at St. Augustine’s College, Igbuzo, is aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, self-reliance, job creation and sustainable economic development among beneficiaries.

As part of the initiative, participants will receive various vocational tools and equipment, including generator sets, washing machines, gas cylinders, industrial sewing machines, hair dryers, ovens, cooking pots, standing fans and other essential starter packs designed to support small-scale businesses and skilled trades.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Empowerment Coordinator, Dr. Adigwe, said the items were carefully selected to enable beneficiaries establish or expand their businesses, improve their sources of income and contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of their communities.

According to him, the programme is designed to provide practical support for trained cooperators and skilled individuals, with the broader objective of fostering financial independence, reducing unemployment and creating a new generation of entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

Investigations revealed that the 100 successful beneficiaries emerged from over 700 applicants who participated in a rigorous screening and assessment exercise.

The selection process was structured to ensure transparency and fairness, with only qualified candidates in various vocational fields making the final list.

The beneficiaries were drawn from diverse trades, including tailoring, hairdressing, dry-cleaning, leatherwork, catering and baking, barbering, electrical installation and maintenance, and make-up artistry.

The screening committee was constituted by Pastor Okeze and chaired by the President-General of the Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU) Worldwide, Chief Victor Uchunor, with the support of other respected community leaders and stakeholders.

The forthcoming empowerment programme has generated widespread excitement across Igbuzo and neighbouring communities, with many residents describing it as a major intervention capable of reducing unemployment, stimulating small-scale enterprises and improving the living standards of beneficiaries and their families.

Community leaders have particularly commended Pastor Okeze for facilitating the initiative, noting that it reflects his longstanding commitment to youth empowerment, poverty alleviation and community development.

Observers believe the programme will have a positive ripple effect on the local economy by creating opportunities for wealth generation, encouraging productive engagement among youths and skilled workers, and strengthening grassroots economic activities.

They further noted that the initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between community leaders and government institutions in tackling unemployment and promoting inclusive economic growth at the grassroots level.

By Ike Philip Abiagom

When Dr. Jude Ejikeme Obidiegwu took over leadership of the institution as Provost and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, in September/November 2024, succeeding the outgoing provost, Dr. Owan Tonica. he inherited an institution with enormous potential and a strategic mandate to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s human-capital development.

Today, his tenure is increasingly associated with a renewed vision, stronger partnerships, academic expansion, agricultural innovation and a deliberate effort to reposition the college as a modern centre for cooperative education, entrepreneurship and skills development.

For Dr. Obidiegwu, leadership of the college is not simply about administering an academic institution. It is about building an institution capable of responding to the economic realities facing young Nigerians and contributing to the Federal Government’s drive for food security, job creation and sustainable economic development.

A New Vision for the College

At the heart of the Obidiegwu administration is the determination to transform the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, into a world-class learning and agricultural innovation centre.

The Provost has consistently advocated a model of education that combines academic knowledge with practical skills, entrepreneurship and industry-relevant training.

Under his leadership, the college has increasingly opened its doors to strategic partnerships involving government institutions, international organisations, universities, cooperative stakeholders and development-oriented individuals.

The objective is clear: to produce graduates who can create opportunities for themselves and others rather than depend solely on conventional white-collar employment.

Presidential Recognition

One of the most significant moments in the transformation journey was the recognition of the college’s progress at the presidential level.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during an engagement involving the institution, commended the transformation taking place at the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River.

The recognition was significant because it provided external validation of the efforts of the management to improve the institution’s infrastructure, learning environment, human resources and overall institutional outlook.

For an institution with a mandate that cuts across cooperative development, agriculture and entrepreneurship, such recognition further strengthened the confidence of stakeholders in the direction of the college.

Expansion of Academic Programmes

Another important aspect of Dr. Obidiegwu’s administration is the drive to expand the academic profile of the institution.

The college has moved towards introducing additional programmes designed to respond to emerging economic opportunities and the changing demands of the labour market.

Among the programmes proposed are Mass Communication, Agricultural Technology, Home and Resource Economics, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Science Laboratory Technology.

The expansion is expected to broaden educational opportunities for young Nigerians while creating a stronger multidisciplinary foundation for the college.

Agriculture at the Centre of Development

Dr. Obidiegwu has placed agriculture and aquaculture prominently on the institution’s development agenda.

This is particularly significant at a time when Nigeria is seeking innovative ways to improve food production, reduce dependence on food imports and create sustainable employment for young people.

The college has consequently strengthened its engagement in fish farming, agricultural technology and practical skills acquisition.

Through workshops, training programmes and technical collaborations, students and participants are being exposed to modern approaches to aquaculture and agricultural production.

The philosophy is that education should not end in the classroom. It should translate into productive enterprise.

Historic Partnership with Thailand

Perhaps one of the most promising developments under the current administration is the college’s growing international partnership with Thailand.

The collaboration involving the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Kasetsart University and the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, has opened a new chapter in international cooperation.

The partnership focuses on agricultural education, aquaculture, technology transfer, youth development, entrepreneurship and practical skills acquisition.

The planned development of a standard fish farm and agricultural learning facilities through the partnership is expected to give students practical exposure to modern agricultural production systems.

It is a development that could potentially position Oji River as an important destination for agricultural learning and innovation.

From Cooperative Education to Enterprise Development

Dr. Obidiegwu’s leadership philosophy appears to recognise that cooperative education cannot remain isolated from the broader Nigerian economy.

Consequently, his administration has sought to strengthen the relationship between cooperative education, agriculture, entrepreneurship and enterprise development.

The objective is to equip graduates with the knowledge and practical capacity required to form viable cooperatives, establish businesses, manage enterprises and participate effectively in Nigeria’s evolving economy.

This approach also aligns with the broader national conversation on youth empowerment and economic inclusion.

Investment in Human Capital

Institutional transformation, however, cannot be sustained without competent and motivated personnel.

Dr. Obidiegwu has therefore placed emphasis on staff development, reorientation and capacity building.

Through staff engagements and professional development initiatives, the administration has sought to build a workforce capable of operating within a modern and increasingly competitive educational environment.

The message from the management has been that institutional excellence requires teamwork, discipline, professionalism, accountability and commitment to service.

Putting Students at the Centre

Another defining feature of the Obidiegwu administration is its emphasis on students.

The Provost has repeatedly stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment where students can learn, develop practical skills and pursue their educational ambitions without unnecessary obstacles.

His administration has also welcomed initiatives by stakeholders seeking to provide scholarships and educational support to students of the institution.

Such interventions are particularly important for young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who might otherwise struggle to access quality education.

Building Strategic Partnerships

The transformation of the college has also been driven by an increasingly partnership-oriented approach.

Rather than operating as an isolated institution, the college under Dr. Obidiegwu has engaged government agencies, legislators, universities, international development partners, cooperative organisations and other stakeholders.

These partnerships have created opportunities for training, scholarships, agricultural development, technical cooperation and institutional growth.

The emerging picture is that of a college becoming more connected to the wider national and international development ecosystem.

A College with a Bigger Future

For many observers, the significance of Dr. Obidiegwu’s tenure lies not merely in individual projects but in the direction of the institution.

His administration is seeking to redefine what a Federal Cooperative College can become in contemporary Nigeria: a place where cooperative education meets agriculture; where agriculture meets technology; where technology meets entrepreneurship; and where education ultimately translates into economic empowerment.

The transformation is still a work in progress, but the trajectory is increasingly visible.

From academic expansion and international cooperation to agricultural innovation, staff development and student empowerment, the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, is steadily building a stronger institutional identity.

The Obidiegwu Legacy

Leadership is ultimately measured by the institutions leaders leave behind.For Dr. Jude Ejikeme Obidiegwu, the emerging legacy is one of transformation, innovation and renewed ambition.

His administration has demonstrated that a cooperative college can play a much broader role in national development by combining education with practical enterprise, agriculture, technology and human-capital development.

As Nigeria searches for sustainable solutions to unemployment, food insecurity and youth restiveness, institutions such as the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, have a critical role to play.

And under Dr. Obidiegwu’s leadership, the college appears determined to rise to that challenge.

The story of Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, is therefore no longer simply about an institution teaching cooperative principles. It is increasingly a story about transformation, opportunity and a new generation being prepared to create value in Nigeria’s economy.

Dr. Jude Obidiegwu may have inherited the responsibility of leading the college, but his ambition appears to be much bigger: to leave behind an institution that is stronger, more relevant, more innovative and better prepared for the future.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has stepped up its environmental sanitation campaign across Asaba, embarking on an extensive cleaning exercise aimed at improving cleanliness, preventing flooding and enhancing the beauty of the Delta State capital.

The ongoing intervention, which began on Tuesday, has seen officials and environmental personnel deployed to key roads and drainage channels across the city to remove overgrown weeds, accumulated sand, refuse, silt and other waste materials hindering the free flow of water and affecting the appearance of public spaces.

Areas currently benefiting from the exercise include the link road connecting Maryam Babangida Way and DBS Road, Anwai Road stretching from the Government House Gate to Camp 74 Junction, DBS Road, the link road between DBS Road and WAEC Road, as well as Jesus Saves Road.

The sanitation operation also covers critical drainage infrastructure, including the Squash Club Road Drain and NTA Road drains, where workers are clearing blockages and evacuating debris to approved government dumpsites for proper disposal.

The exercise is being closely supervised by the Director-General of DSCTDA, Chief  Patrick Ukah, alongside the Agency’s Head of Environment, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, who have maintained regular monitoring of the project to ensure effective execution and compliance with environmental standards.
According to the Agency, the initiative forms part of its continuous commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment, improving drainage efficiency and supporting the ongoing transformation and beautification of the Delta State Capital Territory.

DSCTDA further disclosed that the exercise will be extended to other identified locations within the capital city as part of efforts to sustain environmental cleanliness, promote public health and create a safer and more attractive urban environment for residents and visitors alike.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

A new era of agricultural cooperation between Federal Cooperative College,  Oji River- Nigeria and Thailand has begun following the signing of a Record of Discussions involving the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), Kasetsart University (KU), Thailand, and the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River (FCCO), aimed at strengthening agricultural education, aquaculture development, youth empowerment, and enterprise creation.
The landmark agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony and luncheon dialogue held at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, where government officials, academics, development experts, and stakeholders from both countries gathered to chart a new course for sustainable agricultural development.

A major highlight of the partnership is the establishment of a standard fish farm at the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, which will be fully funded by the Government of Thailand. The project is expected to serve as a centre for practical learning, modern aquaculture training, research, and technology transfer, while equipping students and young entrepreneurs with skills required to thrive in the agricultural sector.

The collaboration will also facilitate student exchange programmes between Nigeria and Thailand, academic cooperation, technical assistance, institutional capacity building, and knowledge-sharing initiatives between Federal Cooperative College  Oji-River and Kasetsart University, one of Thailand’s leading institutions in agricultural education and research.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, described the initiative as a strategic partnership capable of connecting youth, innovation, and business development in ways that would transform the agricultural landscape.

He noted that Nigeria’s growing youth population requires practical opportunities beyond conventional farming and emphasized that exposure to technology, entrepreneurship, international best practices, and skills acquisition would make agriculture more attractive and commercially rewarding for young people.

The signing ceremony was attended by distinguished representatives from both nations, including Mr. Chulvat Narinthrangura, Director-General of the Thailand International Cooperation Agency; His Excellency Mr. Thirapath Mongkolnavin, Ambassador of Thailand to Nigeria; Assistant Professor Khongsak Thiangtum, President of Kasetsart University; and Dr. Jude Ejikeme Obidiegwu, Provost and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River along with Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze.

1. The exchange of the Record of Discussions was witnessed by Senator Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi and His Excellency Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, underscoring the strong government-to-government commitment behind the initiative.

Beyond the formal signing ceremony, discussions focused on how international partnerships can create real opportunities for young people and contribute to economic growth through agriculture.
This formed the basis of a high-level panel session titled “Building Sustainable Partnerships: Connecting Youth, Innovation and Business between Thailand and Nigeria.”
Panelists included Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath, Assistant to the President for Research and Internationalization at Kasetsart University; Dr. Jude Ejikeme Obidiegwu of FCCO; and Ms. Aline M. Mugisho, Country Convener of CGIAR Nigeria/IITA.
The panel examined practical ways of translating institutional agreements into measurable benefits for young people through skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and participation in agricultural value chains.

Stakeholders noted that the fish farm project and exchange programmes would expose Nigerian students to global best practices while strengthening local capacity in modern agricultural production and agribusiness management.

The initiative is also seen as part of Thailand’s broader development cooperation with Nigeria, focusing on areas where technical expertise, education, and innovation can improve livelihoods and drive sustainable growth.
Among those present at the groundbreaking and Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony was Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze, Director of Procurement at the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River. His participation reflected the institution’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the partnership and the realization of its long-term benefits.

Observers described the agreement as a significant milestone in Nigeria-Thailand relations and a practical model of international collaboration capable of creating opportunities for young people, strengthening food security, and advancing sustainable agricultural development in both countries.

With the establishment of the Thailand-funded fish farm and the introduction of academic exchange programmes, the partnership is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation, skills acquisition, and agricultural transformation, while deepening bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Thailand.

The people of Igbuzo Kingdom, friends, associates, and admirers join the rest of humanity in celebrating a distinguished monarch, scholar, statesman, and custodian of culture, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, on the occasion of his birthday.

Your Royal Majesty’s life has remained a shining example of wisdom, humility, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to the peace, progress, and cultural heritage of Igbuzo Kingdom. As a renowned academic and traditional ruler, you have continued to provide purposeful leadership, fostering unity, development, and harmony among your people.

Your reign has strengthened the bonds of brotherhood within the kingdom while promoting the rich traditions and values that make Igbuzo a respected and admired community. Through your fatherly guidance, intellectual depth, and dedication to community development, you have inspired generations and contributed immensely to the advancement of Anioma land and Delta State.

As you join the nonagenarian, we pray that Almighty God grants you continued good health, divine wisdom, strength, peace, and many more fruitful years on the throne of our forefathers.

May your reign continue to bring prosperity, unity, and progress to Igbuzo Kingdom.
For and on behalf of my family Happy Birthday, Your Royal Majesty.

Nnam Obuzor oza ji ani Igbuzo
Oza Akatakpo
Oza Mgbengbe

Long Live the Obuzor of Igbuzo! Long Live Igbuzo Kingdom!

HRH Uwolo Amechi Nwaenie
Uwolo Igbuzo

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

ABUJA – The Grassroots Newspaper Publishers Network has criticised former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, over his reported advocacy for the return of fuel subsidy, describing the position as inconsistent with his earlier stance on the controversial policy.

The Publishers argued that Atiku had supported the removal of fuel subsidy before and during the 2023 presidential election campaign, when he described the subsidy regime as fraudulent and advocated redirecting the funds to critical sectors of the economy.

The Grassroots Newspaper Publishers further noted that the removal of fuel subsidy enjoyed support from major presidential candidates during the 2023 election, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who all acknowledged the need to address the economic challenges associated with the subsidy regime.

According to the publishers, any attempt by opposition politicians to now advocate a return to fuel subsidy could be interpreted as a reversal of positions previously canvassed before the electorate.

They maintained that the removal of subsidy has increased revenues available to the federal, state and local governments, giving many sub-national governments greater capacity to meet salary obligations, execute infrastructure projects and provide essential services.

The group acknowledged that subsidy removal initially brought significant economic hardship to Nigerians but argued that the reform has strengthened government revenues and improved the financial capacity of states. It further contended that the increased allocations accruing to states from the Federation Account have enabled many state governments to meet their salary obligations more effectively, compared with periods under previous administrations when several states reportedly struggled to pay workers’ salaries and pensions.

The publishers also accused opposition parties of relying heavily on criticism of the Tinubu administration without offering Nigerians what they described as convincing alternative economic policies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They said Nigerians deserve campaigns based on concrete plans for economic growth, employment generation, security, infrastructure and improved living standards rather than what they described as politically motivated promises.

While acknowledging concerns over the hardship associated with subsidy removal, the publishers said the Federal Government should continue to strengthen palliatives and social protection programmes to cushion the impact on vulnerable Nigerians.

The group declared that Nigerians are now more politically conscious and would carefully scrutinise promises made by politicians ahead of the 2027 elections.
It urged opposition politicians to present practical alternatives rather than simply seeking to reverse existing economic reforms.

The Publishers further appealed to Nigerians to support policies they believe are delivering measurable improvements, arguing that President Tinubu deserves constructive support where his administration’s programmes are producing positive results.
They stressed that political opposition remains important to democracy but should be based on constructive criticism, accountability and credible alternatives capable of improving the lives of Nigerians.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the publishers said issues surrounding fuel subsidy, economic reforms, revenue allocation, job creation and the welfare of citizens would remain central to Nigeria’s political debate.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The Delta State Contributory Health Commission has honoured the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Hon. Chief Innocent Esewezie, with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his outstanding commitment to expanding healthcare access and promoting health insurance coverage among residents.

The award was presented on Tuesday by the Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Hon. Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, during the commissioning of the ultra-modern Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital in Okpanam, a landmark healthcare project executed by the Oshimili North Local Government under the leadership of Chief Esewezie.

The recognition followed the successful registration of hundreds of residents into the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme through the intervention of the Oshimili North administration, a move aimed at ensuring citizens have access to affordable and sustainable healthcare services.

Presenting the award, Dr. Akpoveta commended Chief Esewezie for demonstrating visionary leadership in the health sector by not only providing world-class healthcare infrastructure but also ensuring that residents are protected through health insurance coverage.

According to him, the Oshimili North model has become a shining example of how local government administrations can effectively channel available resources into projects that directly improve the welfare of the people.
He urged other local government chairmen across Delta State and Nigeria to emulate the achievements of Oshimili North, noting that greater participation in the contributory health insurance scheme would accelerate the state’s drive towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

The commitment demonstrated by the Oshimili North Local Government Chairman is commendable. Healthcare goes beyond building hospitals; it also involves ensuring that people can access medical services without financial hardship. This is exactly what Chief Esewezie has achieved, Dr. Akpoveta stated.
The presentation of the Award of Excellence attracted applause from dignitaries, government officials, traditional rulers, healthcare professionals, community leaders and residents who gathered to witness the historic commissioning ceremony.

The newly inaugurated Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital has been described as one of the most modern healthcare facilities established by a local government council in Delta State. The facility is equipped with modern medical equipment designed to provide quality healthcare services to residents of Okpanam and neighbouring communities.

Speaking on the significance of the project, APC chieftain, Chief Kizito Ijeh, said the successful completion of the hospital demonstrates the practical impact of economic reforms and prudent management of public resources. He praised Chief Esewezie for translating available funds into visible and people-oriented development projects that directly benefit the people.

Adding to the significance of the occasion was the launch of a six-day free medical and surgical outreach programme organised by the Oshimili North Local Government.
The initiative is providing residents with free medical consultations, treatment, medications and surgical procedures, particularly for vulnerable and low-income citizens.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North, Mr. Austin Nnabuife, popularly known as Ojegbue, described the dual achievement of constructing a world-class healthcare facility and expanding health insurance coverage as a major milestone in grassroots healthcare development. He noted that the projects reflect the administration’s commitment to improving the well-being of residents and ensuring that quality healthcare becomes accessible to all.

For Chief Esewezie, the Award of Excellence serves as recognition of a broader vision that combines healthcare infrastructure, medical outreach and health insurance protection to guarantee improved access to quality healthcare services for the people of Oshimili North.

The event marked yet another milestone in the council’s efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, promote preventive healthcare and improve the quality of life of residents across the local government area.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

OKPANAM – The ancient town of Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State came alive on Tuesday as political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, healthcare professionals, and residents thronged the community for the historic commissioning of the ultra-modern Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital.

The event, which turned the town into a carnival-like atmosphere, marked a major milestone in grassroots healthcare delivery and demonstrated the growing capacity of local government councils to execute multi-million-naira projects capable of transforming the lives of the people.
The hospital, conceived and completed by the Oshimili North Local Government Council under the leadership of Hon. Innocent Esewezie, was officially commissioned by Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D.

The ceremony also featured the launch of a comprehensive Free Medical Care Programme aimed at providing immediate healthcare services to residents of Okpanam and neighbouring communities.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori described the project as a clear reflection of his administration’s commitment to the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda, particularly in the area of meaningful development and sustainable healthcare delivery.

According to the governor, access to quality and affordable healthcare should not be determined by geographical location, stressing that the establishment of modern medical facilities within local communities would reduce the burden of long-distance travel and guarantee prompt medical attention for vulnerable citizens.
This project aligns directly with the core pillars of our M.O.R.E. Agenda. Access to quality and affordable healthcare should never be a luxury determined by location. By bringing modern medical facilities directly into our communities, we are ensuring that our people receive prompt and effective healthcare services when they need them most, he stated.
Governor Oborevwori commended Hon. Esewezie and the Oshimili North Council for successfully executing the project, noting that local government administrations remain the closest tier of government to the people and play a critical role in delivering development at the grassroots. He further praised the council for complementing the hospital project with a free medical care programme, emphasizing that infrastructure can only achieve its true purpose when accompanied by accessible and compassionate services.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, described the hospital as a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to improve the welfare and quality of life of residents.
He said a community could not truly prosper when its people lacked access to basic healthcare, adding that healthcare development extends beyond physical structures to include qualified personnel, modern equipment, healthcare financing, and programmes that directly benefit the people.

Esewezie announced the commencement of a six-day free medical outreach that would offer consultations, treatments, surgeries, dental services, and optical care to residents.
The council chairman also disclosed that 200 beneficiaries had been enrolled into the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme. According to him, 150 beneficiaries are members of the Oshimili North Security Watch, while 50 are autistic children and persons with special needs drawn from various communities within the local government area.
He revealed that part of the hospital facility had been dedicated to the care and support of children with special needs, reflecting the council’s commitment to inclusive and compassionate healthcare delivery.

The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, urged local government councils across the state to enroll more citizens into the health insurance scheme to improve access to quality healthcare services.
Also speaking, former Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, commended Hon. Esewezie for the visionary initiative, describing the hospital as a strategic investment in the health and well-being of the people of Oshimili North.
Okowa noted that local government councils across the state were increasingly making meaningful contributions to development through impactful projects and urged council chairmen to sustain the momentum.

Earlier, the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Michael Ogbolu, expressed appreciation to the Oshimili North Council for the project, recalling the challenges residents previously faced in accessing quality healthcare services.
According to the monarch, pregnant women, children, and elderly residents often travelled long distances to seek medical attention, a challenge that the new hospital is expected to address significantly.

For many residents, the commissioning of the Sheriff Oborevwori Cottage Hospital represents more than the unveiling of a healthcare facility; it symbolizes a new era of hope, improved healthcare access, and people-oriented governance in Oshimili North.

The event will be remembered as one of the most significant milestones in the history of the local government, proving that visionary leadership, prudent management of resources, and commitment to service can deliver transformative projects that positively impact communities.

Among the dignitaries who attended the colourful ceremony were High Chief Austin Izagbo, Chief Patrick Ukah, Oshimili North APC Chairman Chief Austin Obidi, Hon. Austin Nnabuife, Chief Fred Ajudua, Chief Elvis Okonji, Chief Lucky Abuah, Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor Hon. Joe Ijeh, as well as several political leaders, community stakeholders, and government officials.

As applause filled the air and guests toured the state-of-the-art facility, one message stood out clearly: Oshimili North has taken a giant leap forward in healthcare development, and Hon. Innocent Esewezie has etched his name in the history books as the chairman who brought a modern cottage hospital to the people of Okpanam.