While the APC indulges in diversionary tactics, this administration remains resolutely focused on delivering equitable development, fostering economic resilience, and uplifting every Deltan. Below is an evidence-driven dissection of the APC’s misinformation, paired with a transparent account of the state’s transformative progress.
1. Infrastructure Renaissance: Bridging Divides, Igniting Prosperity
The APC’s assertion that there is “nothing tangible to show” is not only false but an insult to the collective intelligence of Deltans. Governor Oborevwori’s administration is spearheading one of the most expansive infrastructure overhauls in Delta’s history, prioritizing marginalized riverine communities while advancing urban modernization.
Revolutionizing Riverine Accessibility:
-Trans Warri-Ode-Itsekiri Bridges and Road Project (₦78 billion, 34.2km, 19 bridges) is 72% complete, reducing travel time from 4 hours to 45 minutes.
- The Okerenkoko-Pepeama-Kokodiagbene Road in Gbaramatu Kingdom has opened access to 15 previously isolated communities, spurring aquaculture and commerce.
-Rehabilitation of the Ohoror-Bomadi-Gbaregollor-Burutu Corridor will restore connectivity to 20 agrarian communities, benefiting 50,000 rural fishermen and farmers.
Urban Renewal & Flood Mitigation:
-Over 68 road projects completed or are ongoing, including the dualization of Ughelli-Asaba Road and the Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass, easing congestion in Delta’s capital city.
-A ₦15 billion drainage expansion initiative has reduced flooding by 60% in high-risk areas, validated by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
2. Economic Revitalization: Prudence, Innovation, and Inclusive Growth
The APC’s attempt to compare Delta to Lagos reflects either deliberate ignorance or sheer mischief. Unlike Lagos, which enjoys the advantage of being Nigeria’s commercial capital with massive corporate tax contributions, Delta’s economy is structured differently. Despite this, Governor Oborevwori has raised internally generated revenue to an impressive ₦150 billion, improving on past administrations while avoiding excessive taxation that would burden residents.
The administration is not just improving revenue collection; it is ensuring prudent financial management—funding major projects, paying salaries promptly, and repaying inherited debts without plunging the state into unnecessary borrowing. APC’s attempt to paint a picture of financial recklessness is not only misleading but exposes their poor understanding of governance.
IGR Growth & Fiscal Discipline:
-₦150 billion IGR (2023), a 28% increase from 2022, driven by tax digitization and formalization of 12,000 businesses.
-Delta ranks among Nigeria’s top 5 states in fiscal sustainability, with a debt-to-revenue ratio of 23%—well below the 40% national threshold.
-₦18.7 billion in inherited contractor debts repaid, while maintaining 100% salary compliance—unlike APC-led states owing 12 months’ salary arrears.
Job Creation & SME Empowerment:
-Delta Youth Skills Development Initiative (DYSDI) has trained 25,000 youths in tech, renewable energy, and agribusiness, with 70% securing employment.
-₦5 billion Delta SME Fund has supported 3,000 new businesses, particularly in Asaba’s leatherworks cluster and Warri’s maritime logistics sector.
3. Healthcare & Education: Pillars of Human Capital Development
The APC’s claim of “collapsing” healthcare and education is a malicious falsehood. Delta ranks 2nd in Nigeria for healthcare access (NBS 2023) and 4th in WAEC performance (2023).
Healthcare Transformation:
-Delta Contributory Health Commission (DCHC) now covers 1.4 million enrollees, with subsidies for low-income households.
-22 new primary healthcare centres were built in riverine areas, with 400 healthcare workers recruited.
-DELSUTH now offers open-heart surgery, attracting patients from neighbouring states.
Excellence in Education:
-180 schools renovated and equipped with digital classrooms, including 45 in oil-producing communities.
-8,000 teachers trained in STEM pedagogy, contributing to a 40% rise in university admissions from Delta.
-Delta Innovation Grants have funded 250 student tech projects, including AI-driven flood prediction tools.
4. Fiscal Responsibility: Accountability Over Propaganda
The APC’s hypocrisy on vehicle procurement is glaring. Delta’s process was transparent:
-Open Competitive Bidding: Vehicles were purchased 20% below market value through the Delta Public Procurement Portal.
-Utility Over Luxury: Vehicles assigned to MDAs for field operations, flood response, and rural healthcare delivery.
5. Political Stability: PDP’s Unwavering Dominance
The APC’s “defection” narrative is a fantasy. Independent polls (e.g., NOI Polls, March 2024) show:
-85% approval rating for Governor Oborevwori, with 78% of Deltans citing improved infrastructure.
-PDP membership has grown by 22,000 since 2023, including 5,000 former APC members from Sapele and Ughelli.
Conclusion: The MORE Agenda—A Blueprint for Sustainable Development
Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda is not a slogan but a measurable governance framework driving Delta’s transformation:
-Meaningful Development: 92% of 2023 infrastructure targets were met, with 2024 focused on coastal highways and rural electrification.
-Opportunities for All: 50,000 jobs created via the Delta Youth Employment Program (DYEP).
-Realistic Reforms: A ₦20 billion Climate Action Fund to combat erosion and gas flaring.
-Enhanced Security: 40% reduction in armed robbery, piracy and kidnappings through Operation Delta Safe 2.0.
A Final Challenge to the APC:
While opposition parties or individuals are primarily expected to hold the government accountable and critique its shortcomings, genuine and constructive opposition also involves recognizing and commending positive achievements. Doing so can enhance credibility and demonstrate that criticism is not just politically motivated but rooted in a genuine concern for good governance and public welfare.
Instead of resorting to baseless propaganda, we challenge the APC to:
1. Publish a shadow development blueprint for Delta.
2. Congratulate Delta on its UN-recognized healthcare model instead of denigrating genuine progress.
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