DELTA STATE OF NIGERIA
NO. DTS 0013 OF 19/01/10
DTSG TO TRAIN 150 YOUTHS AT THE NAVY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Delta State Government is to -train 150 Youths in the Navy College of Engineering, Sapele. Announcing this in Asaba, when the Commandant of the Navy School of Engineering, Rear Admiral T.J. Lokoson paid him a courtesy call in his office, the State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan said the Youths to benefit from the training have been interviewed and selected.
Dr. Uduaghan disclosed that provision has been made in this year's budget for the training programme and promised that it would be a continuous exercise.
He said his administration will continue to redirect the energy of the Youths from violence to meaningful ventures especially on projects that will alter their lives and improve their living standard. The Governor commended the Navy for assisting in ensuring peace and security in the state and urged the Commandant to co-operate with the State Government in the present programme.
His words "I know the strategic role the Navy is playing and apart from the school, it is doing a lot of security job. This school will help our youth to acquire skills and we shall utilize."
Dr. Uduaghan disclosed that no State in the Federation has the kind of Navy formation Delta has and frowned at the insinuation that the State has no sea port.
He therefore urged the commandant to dismiss such speculations and resist the move to relocate the college. Speaking further he said "people are insinuating that there is no sea port in the State and as such the college of engineering should be relocated. Don't let this disturb you and please inform your chief of Naval Staff that the Navy is assisting the State a lot. We do not want the college relocated."
He promised to continue to assist the school in its" effort to train youths in the Country. The Commandant of the College, Rear Admiral T.J. Lokoson said the school has so far trained 150 youths in the Country. Rear Admiral Lokoson stated that the College has the capacity to train middle and low level manpower.
He invited Delta State to take advantage of the location of the school and benefit from the skill acquisition programmes in the college. The Commandant disclosed that the college has many experts and uses them to assist in improving the manpower needs of the Nation. Rear Admiral Lokoson appealed to the Governor to continue to assist the college to enable it meet its mandate.
NO. DTS 0014 OF 19/01/10
DTSG POISED TO DEAL WITH KIDNAPPERS IN THE STATE
As kidnapping incident has continued to rear its ugly head in the society, the Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has disclosed that hoodlums now recruit drivers, stewards, cooks and family members into the exercise.
Speaking while receiving reports from the committee set-up to look into the handover of schools in the state to their former owners, the Governor said that those who allegedly kidnapped Barrister Mariam Aluta, the daughter-in-law of the Chairman of the State Post Primary Education Board has been arrested.
He stated that
security operatives were still on the trail of the remaining suspects
and promised to ensure that they were apprehended in no distant future.
The Governor who said that victims would always be discouraged from
paying ransom added that even when ransom has been paid, security operatives
will still trail and arrest the criminals.
Dr. Uduaghan informed that his administration has adopted strong strategy
that will check kidnapping incident in the state and charged Deltans
to be vigilant.
He explained that
it was as a result of the stringent measures put in place by the Police
and other security operatives that reduced the rate of kidnapping in
the state.
His words "I want to assure you that kidnapping is being checked
in the state. We have mapped out strong strategy to check the incident
and it is reducing."
Promising to ensure that perpetrators of the heinous crime will face the full weight of the law, the Governor enjoined parents and guardians to monitor the activities of their wards.
NO. DTS 0015 OF 19/01/10
COMMITTEE ON HAND OVER OF SCHOOLS SUBMITS REPORT
The committee set-up by the Delta State Government to look into the transfer of schools to their former owners has recommended the return of 40 secondary schools to the missions and communities.
Submitting the
report, the Chairman of the Committee, Bishop Jonathan Edewor said the
decision to handover only 40 schools out of the 405 secondary schools
in the state was reached after careful consideration of the request
made by stakeholders.
He said that particular attention was given to the fears expressed by
the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and Parents Teachers Association
(PTA) over the welfare of the staff of such schools.
Bishop Edewor further said that the exercise should be done in two ways namely full handover with adequate grant and secondly partnership with school owners where government pays salaries and wages while proprietors manage the schools.
The bishop stated that the committee recommended a gradual handover process which will span over one year so that the state government could establish parallel schools in areas where schools are to be handed over to allay the fears.
He explained that
the report compiled in two volumes contains the terms of references,
methodology, findings, recommendations and memoranda of other interest
groups.
The Chairman disclosed that the committee faced several challenges which
ranged from logistics to many others and that these contributed to the
delay in submitting the report.
Bishop Edewor expressed the hope that" his 11 -man Committee's recommendations would be implemented so that the protracted debate on the issue would move to the next level.
In a brief remark, the state Governor assured the Committee members in particular and Deltans in general that his administration would look into the committee report with a view to implementing its recommendation as quickly as possible in order to put to rest the protracted issue of handover of schools to their former owners.
His words "I
assured you and Deltans that the state government will quickly work
on the report and implement it."
The governor explained that government alone cannot successfully carry
out the onerous task of ensuring excellence in the education industry
and called on Private ownership of schools in the state to continue
to partner with the state government so as to achieve the objectives
set for the industry. He commended the committee members for working
together as a team to produce the report.
NO. DTS 0016 OF 19/01/10
DRTV BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO BE RECONSTITUTED
The Delta State government has approved the reconstitution of the Board of Directors of the Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri.The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Oma Djebah who stated this while briefing the press on resolutions reached in a meeting by the State Executive Council in Asaba said that the Chairman of the former Board of the Broadcasting Station,
Ambassador Elizabeth Ogbon-Dey has been re-assigned while the former General Manager of the Station, Mr. Willy Sohwo has also been redeployed outside the station. He however, stated that Mr. Eric James remains the Acting General Manager of the Broadcasting Station.
Mr. Djebah said the decision of EXCO was based on report of a Panel headed by the Director of Information sometime ago to investigate the incessant conflicts between the part-time Board members and Management of the Station after the Ministry had made sprinted effort at resolving the conflict that was capable of paralyzing operations in the station.
He also said that EXCO approved the employment of a qualified accountant for the Service to assist in repositioning and total re-organization of the Accounts and Finance Department to enthrone proper internal control mechanisms in the service.
Mr. Djebah equally disclosed the one month suspension of Mr. O. Mukoro, the Chairman of RATTAWU for acts considered to be against the accepted ethics of Public Service and for masterminding the shutting down of the station without following the due process of Labour Laws and principle of collective bargaining.
The Commissioner also stated that EXCO considered the report and recommendations of the panel constituted by the State government to investigate the communal conflict between Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh Communities in Udu and Warri South-West Local Government areas respectively.
He said the State Government resolved that the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Development in conjunction with the State Boundary Committee are to commence the process of boundary demarcation between the two local government areas without prejudice to on-going court cases as well as construction of a new access road linking Ogbe-Ijoh with Warri Township Ring road, bye-passing Aladja town.
The Commissioner further said that government will acquire the stretch of land in conflict from the first culvert in Aladja to the second culvert at Ogbe-Ijoh for public purposes as a lasting solution to resolving the crisis, without prejudice to the court cases, adding that all forms of development by any individual or group in the area are prohibited.
NO. DTS 0017 OF 19/01/10
DTSG IMMORTALISES MARYAM BABANGIDA
In a bid to immortalize and keep the sound memories of Nigerian's former First Lady, Mrs. Maryam Babangida, the Delta State government has re-named the Anwai Road from Summit Junction to Anwai Campus of the Delta State University as Maryam Babangida Way.
The Delta State Information Commissioner, Mr. Oma Djebah who dropped this hint while briefing journalists on the outcome of the 2010 maiden meeting of the State Executive Council presided over by the State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan in Asaba stated that the Oshimili South Local Government Council would take immediate steps to effect the changes.
According to the Commissioner, the decision to immortalize the former lady who was also an illustrious daughter of the State was to keep her memories aglow in the light of her indelible contribution to the development of the Country and the enthronement of the right of women.
He further said
that the State Government in addition to the renaming of Summit junction-Anwai
Campus road will establish a Women Development Centre in the State and
name it in her honour.
Mr. Djebah also disclosed that the state government would effectively
key into the post burial arrangements being planned by the Okogwu family
of Asaba and the Asaba Community to ensure an unqualified success of
the programme.
NO. DTS 0018 OF 19/01/10
INFORMATION
COMMISSIONER URGES MANAGEMENT OF THE STATE
MEDIA TO IMPROVE INFORMATION DISSEMINATION
The Delta State
Information Commissioner, Mr. Oma Djebah has charged the Staff and Management
of Delta Broadcasting Services, Warri and Asaba as well as The Pointer
Newspapers to brace up to the challenges of effective information dissemination
in the new year.
Mr. Djebah gave the charge recently at a meeting he held with the Management
of the three media outfits and their union leaders in his office in
Asaba.
According to the
commissioner, the New Year has new challenges and the Ministry and its
Parastatals must be ready to tackle such challenges with people being
alive to their duties.
He noted that government was determined in its bid to improve on the
facilities in the stations as well as embark on the training and retraining
of staff of the parastatals to ensure better service delivery.
While the three General Managers of the three parastatals had earlier briefed the Commissioner on the problems confronting their various establishments, the Assistant
General Manager, News DBS Warri, Mrs. Evelyn Utunye, in her vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for convening the meeting and assured him of their readiness towards better information delivery in the State.
Present during the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Paul Evarherhe and the Directors of the Ministry of Information.
NO. DTS 0019 OF 19/01/10
The crisis between the Legislative Arm and Workers of Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State has been settled.
The settlement followed a reconciliatory meeting of the factions in dispute initiated by the Commissioner, Directorate of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Pat. Mozea in his office at Asaba.
In a communiqu6 issued at the end of the meeting, the leader of the legislative arm, Hon. Shedrack Opia apologized to the workers under the umbrella of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) as well as the state leadership of the union.
The communiqu6 which was endorsed y the council Chairman, Hon. Chike Ugwummadu, Hon. Opia and Ndokwa East National Union of Local Government Employees Chairman, Comrade Cyril Ozegbe has the Special Adviser to the Governor on Servicom and Labour relations, Hon. Edward Olatilewa and the state NULGE President, Comrade David Ofoeyeno as observers.
At the meeting, Mozea appealed to Political office holders and Civil Servants in the various local governments in the state to forge a harmonious working relationship in the interest of the people.
In
a related development, the impasse between the management of Isoko South
Local Government and its workers under NULGE has been laid to rest.
Also in a communique at the end of an extensive meeting, the Chairman
of the Council, Chief Askia Ogieh apologized to NULGE, while the strike
action embarked upon by the staff was formally called off.
NO. DTS 0020 OF 19/01/10DELTA BUREAUCRAT: NEW EDITORIAL BOARD INAUGURATED
As part of the renewed strategies to build a highly focused, result-oriented and informed Public Service, a new Editorial Board of Delta Bureaucrat was inaugurated last Wednesday.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the State Head of Service, Dr. Sam Okpokpor disclosed that the mission of the bi-annual journal is to expound knowledge and skills required for public administration, as well as to disseminate information about Delta State Public Service.
Dr. Okpokpor who spoke through the Permanent Secretary in his office, Mr. I.V. Okwuone who is also the Chairman of the new Editorial Board said that this is in fulfillment of the Human Capital Development component of the 3-Point Agenda of the present administration.
The Head of Service therefore urged the newly inaugurated members to improve on the achievements of the former board, adding that with the caliber of the new board members, fresh ideas would be introduced to widen the horizon of the journal.
The members of
the Board include the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics,
Office of the Head of Service, Mr. A. Adedeji who will function as Secretary,
the Director, Planning, research and Statistics, Ministry of Information,
Mr. J. Aguonye and Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Ministry
of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Mogbolu Ngozi.
Other members are Director Administration and Finance, Directorate of
Project Monitoring, Mr. E.T. Ebijuwa and Director, DESOPADEC, Cabinet
and Administration, Mr. I.T. Tegere
REP. MEMBER URGES SUPPORT FOR GOV. UDUAGHAN
The member representing Ndokwa-Ukwani Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Onyekweli Charles has assured the people of his constituency that he would leave no stone unturned in his determined effort in ensuring constant power supply to the people of the area.
Hon. Onyekweli gave this assurance recently at a grand reception organized in his honour by Ndokwa-Ukwuani Elite group in conjuction with Okpochini-Owali Grassroot Forum and PDP Members in Ward 10 at Aboh, Headquarters of Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
He urged the people to embrace peace and unity as no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere of rancor and acrimony.
Recalling on the landmark achievements of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, Hon. Onyekweli enjoined the people to continue to support Governor Uduaghan in the forthcoming general election in 2011 to enable him complete all the on-going projects in the State.
High
points of the occasion were a cash donation of N100,000.00 to the Elite
group by the Federal Law Maker and the entertainment of guests with cultural
dances.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COMMISSIONER VISITS TECHNOLOGY
INCUBATION CENTRE, WARIZI
Delta
State Government is to strengthen the operation of the Technology Incubation
Centre (TIC) Warri, with necessary infrastructural facilities to enable
it succeed in its mandate.
The Hon. Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Anthony Akpomiemie
gave this assurance when he paid a familiarization visit to the centre
at Warri.
Hon. Akpomiemie disclosed that the centre which was established in 1990 by the Federal Government in partnership with the State Government is charged with the implementation of the Nations Technology Incubation Programme.
After a thorough inspection of the -Warri TIC premises, the Commissioner promised that he would urgently look into the problems militating against the centre which currently has nine entrepreneurs in its programme due to lack of space for expansion.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of technological products displayed by the entrepreneurs, and said that the problem of bore hole, transformer and dilapidating structure would be addressed within the shortest possible time.
The Commissioner disclosed that it was the desire of his Directorate, which handles the government's involvement in the TIC Project to immediately offer the needed assistance, adding that there was no budgetary provision for the project.
Hon. Akpomiemie blamed this situation on lack of regular contact between the Centre and the Directorate, promising to incorporate the identified problem in the 2011 budget. Earlier in is address, the Centre Manager, Engr. George Okolo acknowledged the State government's assistance to the centre in the area of construction of concrete flooring in the premises to check flood menace, provision of workshop equipment, bore hole and transformer.
Engr.
Okolo enumerated problems militating against the Centre to include inadequate
space for entrepreneurs, dysfunctional borehole, transformer which is
yet to be connected to national grid, deplorable access road and industrial
parks or estates where entrepreneurs would relocate to after graduation.
INFORMATION COMMISSIONER SETS UP COMMITTEE TO LOOK INTO
UNREST IN POINTER NEWSPAPERS
The Delta State Information Commissioner, Mr. Oma Djebah, has set up a five man Committee headed by the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Jude Aguonye to look into the cause of the face-off between the workers and Management of the Delta Printing and Publishing Company Limited (DPPCL) — Publishes of the Pointer Newspaper.
The Commissioner who convened a meeting of top Management staff of the company, the Permanent Secretary and Directors in Ministry of Information as well as Union Leaders of the Pointer Newspaper and NLC in Asaba said it became necessary to set up the committee because there are procedures which must be followed in addressing management and staff face-offs in any organization in order to come up with workable modalities.
He
noted that government will not allow any act of illegalities, stressing
that nobody should take laws into his hand in any government organisation.
Mr. Djebah said the recent action at led DPPCL has led to loss of revenue
and other benefits to the government and described the incident as sad
and unacceptable.
He stressed that Information organ like the Pointer has a lot to do with the general image of the State and so could not be allowed to be engulfed in crisis. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Paul Evuarherhe later led Directors of the Ministry to the Pointer Office where he addressed the workers and asked them to go back to their duties as a committee has been set up to look into their grievances.
Also with the Permanent Secretary during the visit was the State NLC Secretary, Mr. Victor Ogbogu who charged the workers to go back to work since according to the union leaders of the Pointer Newspapers, there was no trade dispute in the Organisation. He urged them to wait for the report of the committee, which has been given one week to present its findings.
It would be recalled that the office of the Delta Printing and Publishing Company Limited (DPPCL), Publishers of the Pointer Newspaper was locked up on Friday January 8, 2010 by the protesting Staff of the establishment thereby disrupting production for three day.
Members of the five-man committee include Director of Planning, Research and Statistics in the Ministry of Information, Mr. Jude Aguonye as Chairman; Assistant Director of Information, Mr. Dona Obuseh and Victor Esiaje of the Nigeria Labour Congress.
Others
are the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Comrade Osita Biose
and the Principal Administrative Officer in the Delta State Pension Board,
Mr. Lawson Efenudu who serves as Secretary to the Committee.
GOVERNOR UDUAGHAN ORDERS INVESTIGATION INTO POOR ATTENDANCE AT A COMMISSIONING CEREMONY
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has ordered full investigation into what led to the bungling of a ceremony he presided over.
Dr. Uduaghan who gave the order while commissioning Keke NAPEP tricycle in Asaba said the investigation became necessary because of the confusion created in timing during the handover ceremony of vehicles to senior medical doctors in the State Civil Service.
The Governor specifically directed the commissioner for Information, Mr. Oma Djebah to lead the investigation, pointing out that there was confusion over the exact time of the assignment to the extent that Top Government functionaries were not seated when he arrived the venue of the ceremony.
The Governor chided those who handled the preparation for the ceremony and wondered why there should be discrepancies and confusion over a simple task. Dr. Uduaghan therefore, charged top government functionaries to be meticulous, focused, thorough and handle all assignments given them with all seriousness and dedication.
Speaking
further he said "this morning I was surprised at the handover ceremony
of vehicles to senior medical doctors in the state. Top government functionaries
were not seated and on enquiry, I was told it was not yet time for the
ceremony and the time fixed is 8:30 am so who changed the time.
He
told government functionaries to embrace the culture of time consciousness
in the New Year and be punctual at ceremonies. It would be recalled that
the governor handed over 21 vehicles to consultants and senior medical
doctors as well as nine buses to Tertiary Institutions in the State.
GOVERNOR UDUAGHAN COMMISSIONS 114 TRICYCLES TO BOOST TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has commissioned 114 tricycles called "Keke NAPEP" to boost transportation system in the State. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Uduaghan explained that the first batch of the tricycles was designed to empower Deltans and improve their living standard.
He said that the Keke NAPEP is an advanced form of motor cycle, introduced to solve some of the problems associated with motorcycle adding that less than 20% of Deltansuse the safety helmet and as such a lot of people loose their lives through motorcycle accidents.
The Governor explained further that the "Federal Government introduced the safety helmet to safeguard lives, stressing that the FRSC and the Police should enforce this law in the State as less than 20% motorcycle riders use the helmet.
Governor Uduaghan also disclosed that the State would step up the Micro Credit Scheme this year and appealed to beneficiaries to return foans given them promptly to enable others to benefit from the Scheme.
In a welcome address, the State Co-ordinator of National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) Mr. Austin Igbine commended the State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan for his consistency in approving the counterpart funding for the prompt delivery of the first batch of the tricycles to the state.
He
explained that the Keke Scheme was designed to provide affordable and
comfortable commercial transportation for the people, adding that Scheme
would provide employment for the youths.
RECONSTITUTED GOVERNING COUNCILS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN DELTA STATE INAUGURATED IN ASABA
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has declared that no tertiary institution in the State belongs to any ethnic group or community.
Dr. Uduaghan who announced this during the swearing in of a member of the House of Assembly Service Commission and the inauguration of the reconstituted Governing Councils of Tertiary Institutions in Asaba said that every higher institution in the State belongs to all Deltans.
He frowned at the current friction going on in state owned institutions over the agitation of ownership and said that this development is unhealthy for the growth of the State.
Explaining further, he warned that the State Government would not tolerate any form of wrangling and ill fighting among communities. The Governor emphasized that the Governing Boards of the State owned tertiary Institutions were reconstituted not because of any political undertone but to reduce the friction caused by the Council Members as a result of their interference in the boards.
He noted that the members were appointed based on their professional expertise, wealth of experience and dedication, and therefore urged them to co-operate and develop cordial relationship with the communities and students.
Governor Uduaghan specifically charged the Chairman of Scholarship Board, Monsignor Buchi Aninye to brace up the challenges in the board and produce positive result.
The member of the House of Assembly Commission sworn in is Barr. Mrs. Josephine Ada Kaichikwu while the Chairmen of the reconstituted boards are:
Prof.
Yomere Gabriel -Delta State Polytechnic Ozoro
Prof. Abedinego Ekoko Ogwuashi-uku
Dr.Steve Oru - Otefe-Oghara
Dr. Mrs. Elizabeth Ubiai - College of Education Warri
Prof. Pat Muoboghare - Agbor
Prof Clement Nwawolor Mosogar
Morsignor Buchi Aniaye - Scholarship Board
Responding,
Barr. (Mrs.) Josephine Kaichikwu thanked the Governor for finding her
worthy to serve the State and pledged her loyalty and dedication to
duty.
Prof
Ekoko who responded on behalf of Chairmen of Boards thanked the Governor
for the appointment and promised that they would work as a team
and follow due process in discharging their responsibilities.
GOVERNOR UDUAGHAN SIGNS INTERNAL REVENUE BILL INTO LAW
The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has signed the Internal Revenue Bill 2009 into law.The Bill was presented to the Governor for assent by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Honourable Martin Okonta after it was authenticated by the Clerk of the House, Mr. Raymond Yavbiere.
At a brief ceremony in the Executive Council Chambers of the State Government House Asaba, Dr. Uduaghan said the internal revenue law was necessitated by the need to improve the revenue generation mechanism and its profile in the state.
He pointed out that oil the major source of revenue to the country has been badly affected by the crises in the Niger Delta even as he explained that the global economic melt-down was also taking its toll, on the revenue accruing to the state. The Governor explained that the Bill was not designed to witch-hunt anybody, stressing that it was meant to check the low revenue accruing to the
State from the Federation Account. He appealed to Deltans to pay their taxes and rates regularly so that government would have enough revenue to execute projects.
NO.
DTS 0025 OF 15/7/09
DELTA TO ENFORCE LAW AND ORDER TO CHECK CRIMINALITY IN YOUTHS
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has warned youths in the state not to take advantage of Federal government amnesty offer to militants to perpetuate economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.
Dr. Uduaghan who gave this warning in Warri recently during a courtesy Visit to him by top naval officers led by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ishaya Ibrahim, said his administration would reinforce law and order to curb Youth vandalization. He explained that the amnesty offer to militants in the region was for them to drop their arms not for them to use it for illegal vandalization, this he said the State would not tolerate.
In his words, "I thank Mr. President for his amnesty offer, this administration is not closing its eyes to the restoring of law and order especially to curb illegal vandalization which is a big economic sabotage. Any youth caught in this act would be severely dealt with."
The
Governor commended the Nigerian Navy for the crisis management measures
it has taken so far to restore peace to the Niger-Delta
region and assured it of his administration's support especially on the
F.O.B. location in Escravos to help
improve the security measure of the Navy in the State.
Responding the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ishaya Ibrahim who was on working visit to the State, commended Governor Uduaghan for his love and concern for the Navy in the State. He appreciated him for his administration's numerous contributions to the Navy and his desire to protect lives and properties in the State.
According to the Chief of Naval Staff, the peaceful co-existence between the government and people of the State have brought back peace to the State and transformed the commercial city of Warri. Vice Admiral Ibrahim assured the governor that the Navy would support his administration to restore absolute peace to the Niger-Delta region a youths of the state to contribute their quota to the development of the area.
He said "Youths in the State should note that their contributions are needed to help develop the area especially the Niger-Delta region for peace and posterity." After the visit, the team proceeded to Escravos to inspect the damaged facilities at the site
NO.
DTS 0026 OF 15/7/09
UDUAGHAN ATTRIBUTES CRISIS IN POLITY TO PRESSURE FROM POLITICAL ASSOCIATES
Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has attributed most problems in the polity to the handiwork of political associates who mount undue pressure on prominent politicians in the country.
Dr. Uduaghan who disclosed this; recently during the Thanksgiving service organized by Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa Secretary to the State Government to mark his 50th birthday at St. Philips Anglican Church Asaba said some political associates mislead their leaders.
He therefore appealed to political associates not to mislead their leaders but be patriotic and selfless enough to offer Advise that could lead to the achievement of overall success in governance.
The Governor who counseled prominent politicians to beware and critically assess the advice offered them by their political associates said unless they looked before they leap they might lose focus.
Dr. Uduaghan particularly commended Dr. Okowa for his steadfastness and his maturity even as he said that he lias benefited immensely from him as the Secretary to the State Government.
Urging Dr. Okowa not to relent 'n his efforts he said "You have performed very well. You have filled in the gap and most times you receive visitors thereby giving me the time to do other things."
The Governor who donated N5 million naira to the church building fund of St. Philips Anglican Church also directed the State Commissioner for Works and the Commissioner for Education to immediately put machinery in motion and tar the road leading to the church premises.
Preaching during the service the Anglican Bishop of Ndokwa Dioceses Rt. Rev. David Obiosa called on the politica1 class to tap the abundant resources in the country as the nation was rich enough not to be affected by the current economic melt-down.
Bishop Obiosa said the country has great people and great potentials and should take the bull by the horn instead o f the present half hearted measure. He charged the political class to rise and set machinery in motion to bail the nation and boost economic growth.
The Bishop, who commended the Secretary to the State Government, Dr.Ifeanyi Okowa for having the right attitude to thank God urged Christians to always cultivate the culture of giving back to God. He congratulated Dr. Okowa on his 50"' birthday and urged him to use his position to render service to the benefit or humanity and the glory of God.
In his brief remark Dr. Okowa expressed gratitude to God for keeping him alive to witness the golden age. He particularly commended the Governor for assisting him in the challenging task of governance even as Le recalled that but for the Governor things probably would have been different.
The
S.S.G. expressed appreciation to the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Roli Sheila
Uduaghan for her encouragement and other political associates who attended
the ceremony.
While pledging to continue to do his best in Uduaghan's administration
he promised not to succumb to undue pressure.
"GOVERNANCE, NOT AN EASY JOB" - UDUGHAN
As Delta State Governor dedicates his recent victory at the Election Petition Tribunal to God he says the work of a Governor is not easy. The Governor who was speaking at an Interdenominational Church Service shortly after the Election Petition Tribunal delivered judgment in his favour in Asaba said people only "see the glamour in the work of a governor but do not see the pains in it."
Dr. Uduaghan who apparently was in high spirit said there are enormous challenges in governance but regretted that a lot of people perceive it differently. He thanked God for the victory even as he said that the victory will spur him to work harder for the transformation of the State.
Singing the popular "Igwe religious tune, Dr. Uduaghan said that, but for God his journey to the seat of Governor which was tortuous would have been scuttled. The governor who offered automatic teaching employment to a woman, Mrs. Fregene Nwachukwu who complained of deprivation and not benefiting from the dividend of democracy said he will continue to manage the resources of the State government prudently.
Dr. Uduaghan said it was better to be prudent and accelerate infrastructure development than to waste scarce resources on frivolities. He dwelt extensively on his three point agenda and assured Deltans that in spite of the enormous challenges facing governance he would not disappoint them.
Emphasizing further he said "I thank God for this victory because I do not know how he did it or when he did it and I assure you today that in spite of challenges I will continue to do my best for the State."
A
Cleric Bishop Wole Oke who preached mat the occasion said "only God
can fight and bestow position on individuals."
Bishop Oke, said he was prowl of what God was doing in Delta State especially
the rapid development taking place in the State.
He prophesied that since Uduaghan was a praying Governor the State will continue to witness joy and prosperity and urged Deltans to pray continuously and support the administration.
OMA DJEBAH INAUGURATES COMMITTEE TO ASCERTAIN CAUSE OF FIRE IN DBS, WARRI
The Delta State Commissioner for Information Mr. Oma Djebah, has inaugurated a six man administrative committee to look into the recent cause of the fire incident at the Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri.
Inaugurating the Committee, at Asaba, Monday July 13, 2009, Mr. Oma Djebah charged members of lie committee to be diligent in finding out the cause of the fire incident and to proffer ways of averting future occurrences, even as the committee has been told to recommend measures necessary to repair the burnt facilities to make the station resume normal operations.
He outlined the terms of reference of the committee to include, ascertaining the immediate and remote causes of the fire incident; ascertain the extent of damage done to facilities, cost the equipment/furniture items destroyed and suggest remedial measures to be taken immediately to enable the station continue broadcasting.
The committee which has two weeks to submit its reports has Mr. Jude Aguonye as Chairman, while the members are Mr. A. S. Egbo, Engr. Udi S. O., Mrs. Orovwegodo Engineer Akponovo F. O. and Mr. Emokiniovo Itobore who will serve as member and Secretary.
Responding on behalf of the other members, the chairman of the committee, Mr. Jude Aguonye thanked the Commissioner for finding them worthy for the appointment.
He
gave an assurance that members of the committee will not betray the confidence
reposed on them by the appointment.
Present during the inauguration were the Permanent Secretary, Ministry
of Information, Mr. Gift Nikoro, Director of Information, Mr. Austin Mowah
and some members of staff.
TABOWEI TIES SUCCESS OF FADAMA III TO PAYMENT OF COUNTERPART FUNDS BY COUNCILS
Local Governments in Delta State have been enjoined to pay up their Counterpart Funds for the successful implementation of the Fadama III Programme in the area.
The State Commissioner for agriculture and National Resources, Dr. Ogaranya Tabs-Tabowei gave the advice while receiving the South -South Zonal Coordinator of Fadama III Programme Dr. Isaiah Fobi in his office in Asaba, recently.
Dr. Tabs-Tabowei observed that some local government councils in the state have not paid enough attention to the payment of their counterpart funds adding that this attitude adversely affected project execution of the Fadama III Programme in their areas
The Agric Commissioner said that the State Government is fully committed to the Fadama III Programme as its executive will complement the on-going agricultural revolution of Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan’s administration.
Earlier, the South –South Zonal Coordinator of Fadama III Programme, Dr. Isaiah Fobi informed the Agric Commissioner that the world Bank within a fortnight disburse funds to the State for the implementation of the Fadama Project. Dr. Fobi observed that Delta State Government is one of the states among the first batch of states to qualify for disbursements of World Bank Fund.
He commended the State Government and the Agric Commissioner for all the support and attention given to Fadama Programme and overall development of the agricultural sector in the state.
ACCEPT AMNESTY OFFER
Youths in Delta State, especially militants in the Niger Delta Region have again been called upon to shun violence and to unconditionally accept the amnesty offer by the federal government in order to ensure an enduring peace and development of the state and the entire region.
The Director of the National Orientation Agency in Delta State, Mr. Isaac Ezechi made the call when lie led a delegation of the Agency to the palace of the Pere of Ngbilebiri Kingdom in Kiagbodo , in Burutu Local Government Area for a sensitization on the need to support the amnesty offer to militants by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji, Musa Yar Adua
He emphasized that both the state and federal government are genuinely interested in the rehabilitation of all militants that surrender their weapons, equipments, arms and ammunitions in their possession to the collection centers or police stations, adding that collection points and Integration centers for arms and ammunitions have been established in all the Niger Delta states.
Mr. Ezechi also noted that there will be no monetary inducement for the exchange of arms and ammunitions to be surrendered, even as he urged the militants to respect the terms of the all. amnesty by refraining from militancy as the Joint Military Task Force will increase hostilities during the amnesty period slated for Thursday August to Sundae October 1, 2009.
Also speaking, the Pere of Ngbilebiri KingdomKiagbodo, Perekeme Bigborogha II, thanked the state and federal government for the peace initiative through amnesty offer to the Niger Delta militants.
He appeal to the federal government to pardon all militants, and ensure speedy development of the area, adding that he will play his role as a traditional ruler to bring lasting peace to his people by preaching the need to accept the amnesty offer of the federal government
Earlier on, the delegation paid a courtesy call to the foremost Ijaw Leader, Chief Edwin Clark (CON), who was commended by the leader of the delegation, Mr. Isaac Ezechi for supporting to the amnesty offer, and appealed to him to use his influence to calm the militants in the Niger Delta region.
In his response, Chief Edwin Clark called on the federal government to show more sincere commitment to peace and development of Niger Delta, and not to regard the amnesty to be an end in itself but a means to an end.
Chief Clark's address which was read by his Personal Secretary, Mr. Paul Ufuah, stated that the infrastructural and political development of the Niger Delta should be carried out simultaneously without delay, stressing that he will equally appeal to the militant leaders to allow peace to reign by taking advantage of the amnesty offer, in order to pave way for a meaningful development of the region.
DTSG TO PROMOTE EXCELLENCE IN DELSU
The Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has assured Medical and Dental Students of the State own University, of his administration's commitment to promote excellence in the institution.
Dr. Uduaghan who was speaking while addressing Medical and Dental students in Government House, Asaba promised to ensure that the medical programmes of the institution compared favourably with the best medical schools in the country.
The Governor who spoke through the Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Solomon Areyinka, said that as a medical doctor he would not toy with the fortune of medical students.
He revealed that his administration was already working out modalities to improve facilities in the school.
Dr. Uduaghan, disclosed how his government conveyed a high powered meeting not only to actualize the vision he had for the medical school but to commit enormousness resources towards the provision of the required facilities.
While commending the students for comporting themselves peacefully in the face of difficulties, the Governor appealed to them to give him time so that he would tackle the problems to their satisfaction.
Earlier in a speech the President, Medical and Dental Students Association, Delta State University, Gbenga Oduneye, expressed dissatisfaction with the facilities in the school of medical sciences.
Mr. Oduneye therefore appealed to the Governor to give the institution the required attention by up-grading the facilities.
E-PASSPORT TO SOLVE NIGERIA'S IMAGE PROBLEM - UDUAGHAN
Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has said that the introduction of the new E-passport would to a large extent solve the country's image problem.
Dr.
Uduaghan who stated this while flagging off the E-passport in Asaba explained
that the former passport created major image problems for the nation.
He expressed happiness that the country has joined the rest of the world
in the use of electronic Passport, adding that with this development it
would be extremely difficult for anyone to forge or use the passport to
commit crime.
The Governor said that the best thing that could happen to any administration
is to identify problems facing it and tackle them promptly.
Emphasising further Dr. Uduaghan said "we have learnt about our problems
and we have moved up to solve them".
While commending the Nigerian Immigration for introducing the Electronic passport, he expressed the hope that it would not only restore the dignity of Nigerians but protect them from unnecessary embarrassment.
The zonal Coordinator of Immigration in the state Mr. Samuel Eluwa, said the new passport was introduced to correct the lapses in the previous passport.
Mr. Eluwa explained that there were no interconnectivity in the issuing centres for the previous one and it created the loophole for people to possess multiple passports.
He also explained that the new passport made use of the Biometric features and most of the problems associated with the old passport such as multiple acquisition, forgery, identity theft and other economic crimes were over.
The zonal coordinator said it was difficult to commit crime with the new passport since all the issuing centres were interconnected to the central data.
Highlight of the ceremony was the issuance of the new passport to the Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and his deputy Professor Amos Utuamah (SAN).The Governor also inspected facilities at the center.
MASTER PLAN ON NIGER DELTA TO BE ENFORCED - UTUAMA
The Deputy Governor of Delta State Professor Amos Utuama (SAN) has called on oil companies in the Niger Delta Region to always relate and show sincerity to their host communities especially in the area of community development.
Professor Utuama made the call while answering questions during a 3-day offshore West Africa 2008 Conference and Exhibition held recently at Abuja.
He observed that the wage bills of governments in the region are high because every school leaver preferred a job in the public service, stressing that payment of wage bill takes more than half of the income that comes into the state.
While addressing the companies not to neglect their responsibilities to their host communities, the deputy governor revealed that from this year the federal, State and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) will take active parts in the enforcement and implementation of the Niger Delta master plan.
During the 3-day conference there were lectures on sustainable Development Policies: A tool for peace for increased Oil and Gas production, Niger Delta of Nigeria Emergence of Community Development foundation, and increased Offshore Activities in the West Africa Sub region.
The highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of the Niger Delta master plan to the Deputy Governor by Mr Anthony Abokri of the ELF Petroleum Nigeria Limited.
The 3-day conference was attended by people from all walks of life especially expatriates from the oil sector.
SPECIAL ADVISER BEGINS ADVOCACY VISIT TO LGAs
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties Government House, Prince Uzoma Idaboh has commenced an advocacy visit to the twenty-five (25) Local Government Areas of the State to enlighten the people at the grassroots level on the 3 point Agenda of the Uduaghan administration.
According to the itinerary of the visit released in Asaba, the tour began on Monday February 4, 2008 with a visit to Warri North and Ethiope West Local Government Area. And on Wednesday February 6 and Thursday February6 7, 2008, the enlightenment train visited Isoko South, Isoko North, Ughelli North and Ethiope East Local Government Areas respectively.
Also, the team has visited Bomadi, Patani, Burutu, Udu and Ughelli South Local Government Areas on Friday February 8, Monday February 11 and Tuesday February 12, 2008, while it will proceed to Warri South, Uvwie, Okpe and Warri South West Local Government Areas on Monday February 18, Tuesday February 19, and Wednesday February 20, 2008.
The sensitization tour will be concluded with a visit to Ndokdwa East, Ndokwa West, Aniocha South and Oshimnili South Local Government Areas on Monday February 25 and Tuesday February 26, 2008.
HOS STATES GOVERNMENT'S COMMITTEMENT
TO QUALITY SERVICE
The Delta State Head of Service Dr. Sam Okpokpor, has said that the state civil service is being repositioned for greater efficiency and productivity in line with the Human capital Development of the Uduaghan administration.
Dr. Okpokpor who stated this while declaring open a two day orientation course for fresh student of the Staff Training Center Asaba, commended the State Governor Dr. Uduaghan for his moral and financial assistance in the training of officers to improved their skills.
The Head of Service who was represented at the occasion by the permanent secretary in the Directorate of Pension and Establishment Mr. Andrew Okogba, urged the fresh students to be serious with their studies in order to justify Government's huge investment in their training especially in the upgrading of the facilities in the school.
He expressed the hope, that at the end of the training the student will be sufficiently knowledgeable and equipped to give the required excellent service to the state government.
Speaking earlier, the Director of the Staff Training Centre Miss Elizabeth Ogwezzy expressed gratitude to government for providing a 100KVA generator, furniture and borehole to enhanced the smooth running of the school.
While restating, the commitment of the staff to provide excellent service, Miss Ogwezzy called on government to provide the center with utility vehicles, permanent hostel accommodation for students, more computers and internet facilities and special duty allowance for staff.
UNFPA CALLS FOR STRONGER COMMITTEMENT TO PROTECT RIGTHS OF WOMEN
Deltans on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 joined the rest of humanity, to mark the International Day Against Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting.
This global observance is intended to draw attention to this harmful practice meted against the women folk, especially girls.
In a statement to mark the event the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) an agency of the United Nations Organisation, called for stronger commitment, from all nations against the harmful practice.
The statement which was issued by the Executive Director of UNFPA Ms Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, urged the various governments in the world to protect the rights of women and girls as well as step up actions to end Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting in line with the United Nations resolutions adopted in 2007.
The statement averred that Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting violated the rights of women and girls and therefore constituted an irreparable and irreversible abuse on their humanities, and disclosed that mounting medical evidence indicated that the practice posed a serious threat to the health of women and girls, increased their vulnerability to HIV/AIDS, increased the risk of maternal and infant mortality and endangered their physiological, sexual and reproductive health.
Ms. Obaid revealed that an estimated 100 million to 140 million women and girls world wide had undergone the practice while three million more girls are at risk each year, adding that many more women and girls are traumatized by the experience and suffered in silence, because they were afraid of being excluded from their communities.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment of the UNFPA to support efforts to end Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting world wide and urged governments and other partners to contribute to the UNFPA/UNICEF Joint Programme and Trust Fund to stamp out the harmful practice in the life of the present generation, especially in Nigeria.
UDUAGHANS 3 POINT AGENDA TO PROMOTE
LIVING STANDARDS
The
three point Agenda of the Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan is aimed at giving
succour to the people of Delta State and improving their standard of living.
The special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Government House
Prince Uzoma Idabo made the remark at the Local Government Town Hall,
Koko, in Warri North Local Government Area while flagging off his Advocacy
visit to the 25 Local Government Areas of the state.
According to Prince Idabor, the aim of the meeting is to sensitize the people at the grassroot on the plans and programmes of the Uduaghan administration and to explain the three point agenda of the Uduaghan administration in the area of human capital development.
Speaking further, Prince Idabor disclosed some of the plans and activities of the government towards making life enjoyable for Deltans.
In the area of Education, the State government has made the registration of WAEC and NECO free for all indigenes of Delta.
In
the same vein, the acceptance fees which was increased from three thousand
to twenty thousand naira in the State own University was equally reduced.
On poverty alleviation, he noted that the government is out to give all
the support and opportunities Deltans needed especially in the area of
free medical health care for all pregnant women in the state.
Welcoming reactions from members of the communities, Mr. Onu Obamed appreciated the efforts of the state government towards the provision of the macro credit scheme and urged the government to make sure that the credit facilities get to the rightful individuals.
Also speaking, Mr. Gabriel Koma Chairman Meantime workers Union commended the government for deeming it necessary to reach out to the people at the grassroots and also made a passionate appeal to the government to do more towards improving the standard of primary school education in the state particularly those in the riverine areas.
APPLICATIONS FORMS FOR NMS ZARIA, AIRFORCE
SCHOOL, JOS, NOW ON SALE
Application Forms into the Nigerian Military school, Zaria, for 2008/2009 academic session are now available for sale.
A government statement issued in Asaba by the State Director of Information, Mr. Austin Mowah has requested interested candidates to collect the forms at the office of the Directorate of Political and Security Services, Governor's Office (Former SSG's Office) Ibusa Road, Asaba, at the cost of N1,000 each.
The statement further requested Local Government Councils to purchase the forms from the Directorate for sale to interested candidates from their respective Local Government Areas to enable them have the opportunity to participate in the examination.
Similarly, Application forms into the Air Force Military School, Jos, for 2008/2009 academic session are now available for sale.
A government statement issued in Asaba by the State Director of Information, Mr. Austin Mowah indicated that the forms could be collected on payment of N500 at the office of the Directorate of Political and Security Services, Governor's Office (Former SSG's Office) Ibusa road, Asaba.
The statement further requested interested candidates to purchase and complete the forms on time as there will be no room for late entry.
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BEGINS SURVEY OF SCIENTISTS, ENGINEERS
The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology (FMST) is conducting a Nationwide survey of Resident indigenous scientist, Engineers, Technicians and innovators in Nigeria.
A government statement issued in Asaba by the State Director of Information Mr. Austin Mowah, said the result of the survey will form part of a National Data bank on indigenous science and Technology manpower domiciled in the country.
The statement further stated that, university, polytechnic, college of Technology or Technical College graduates in any field of science, Technology or Engineering, including: physical science, Human and Vertinary medicine, agriculture, electrical and electronics, renewable energy, construction, space and meteorology, Information and Communication technology, all other fields of science, engineering and technology are to register.
The registration, is also open to all qualified persons including but not limited to government and private sector, employees, self-employed or unemployed, retirees who are still able to work, consultants, fresh graduates and post graduates and all other relevant categories.
Qualified Deltans are to ensure that they are registered and enlisted in the Nigerian National Science and Technology Data bank.
The registration is on-line at the Ministry of Science and Technology's website: http://www.fmst.gov.ng http://www.nadcest.gov.ng
IDABOR CALLS ON YOUTHS TO ENGAGE IN
MEANINGFUL VENTURES
Youths in Delta State have been called upon to take advantage of the Talent/Entertainment Development Unit created by the State Government to develop their talents for gainful employment.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties Government House Prince Uzoma Idaboh gave this charge recently, during an advocacy meeting in Isoko North and South Local Government Areas.
The advocacy meeting which witnessed a large number of people created opportunities for Deltans in the two Local Government areas to be abreast with the 3 point agenda of the Uduaghan administration particularly in the area of human capital development.
Prince Idabor, listed some of the plans and programmes the Uduaghan administration has embarked on towards improving the living standard of Deltans, to include free maternal health care, free registration of WAEC and NECO for Deltans in public schools, the reduction of the acceptance fee in Delsu, free vaccination for children and the disbursement of finance for macro-credit scheme.
Speaking further, the Special Adviser emphasized that the era of project abandonment by contractors is gone, stressing that government has set up a working committee comprising of some private individual and government officials to tackle the problem.
Some of the people who spoke commended the government for reaching out to the people at the grassroot through the advocacy meeting and also pleaded that it becomes a regular event.
At Oleh, those who spoke during the interactive sections called on the government to provide the communities with the basic necessities of life which include water, light, schools among others.
Regular payment of local government staff salaries was another major worry of the people. They further called on the government to employ more staff at the General hospital Oleh.
The yarning of the people in Ozoro were not very different from those in Oleh.
Among the problems mentioned were speedy actualization of government plans and programmes while indigenous contractors should be allowed to handle government projects instead of legislative members amongst others.
MINISTRY REPORTS OUT DBREAK OF
GASTROINTESTIONAL INFECTION
The Delta State Ministry of health has reported an outbreak of gastrointestinal infection in some parts of Oshimili South Local Government Area of the State.
A government statement issued in Asaba by the State Director of Information, Mr. Austin Mowah advised parents particularly nursing mothers to maintain high standards of hygiene especially around their children, who are under five years and boil all drinkable water before consumption.
Parents are also advised to commence immediate administration of the Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) or salt-sugar solution to any child with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea and to send them early to the nearest government hospital for further management.
The statement further indicated that the situation is under control as relief supplies and medication have been sent to the hospitals in the area especially the Federal Medical Centre and General Hospital, Okwe.
SEMINER ON NEPAD HELD IN ASABA
The Delta State Government on Thursday, February 7 2008, organized a sensitization workshop on NEPAD-African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) for top government functionaries and stakeholders.
A government statement issued in Asaba by the Director of Information, Mr. Austin Mowah indicated that the ceremony held at the Press Centre Government House, Asaba at 9am.
Those attended the workshop included His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, the Honourable Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly, the Honourable Chief Judge of Delta State, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Civil Commissioners, Political and Economic Advisers, Special Advisers, Executive Assistants, Chairmen, Civil/Local Government/House of Assembly Service Commissions, Permanent Secretaries/Heads of Extra Ministerial Departments, Auditors-General (State/Local Government), Accountant-General, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Chairmen of Local Government Transition Committees, Heads of Personnel Management, Treasurers/Directors of Works/Heads of Medical Services in the Local Government Councils, and Principals of schools.
Others three representatives each from the NLC, TUC, NUJ, NUBIFE, NBA, ASSU, NGOS, NURTW, COBS, Co-operative Societies, NCWS, Okada Riders Association, market women, Headmasters of Primary Schools, Heads of Departments of Tertiary Institutions, Farmers Association, Youth Council and Community/Religious Leaders.