By Dr TImi Tonye
INTRODUCTION: THIS IS OUR MOMENT AS DELTANS
My people of Delta State.
From the creeks of Burutu to the streets of Asaba, from Warri to Agbor, from Ndokwa to Isoko land,
one truth unites us today: Delta State is moving forward.
We know what it means to wait for government.
We know what it means to hear promises without progress.
But today, we are seeing something different.
We are seeing projects on ground.
We are seeing peace where there was once tension.
We are seeing a government that listens, consults, and delivers.
That is why 2027 must not be about trial and error. It must be about continuity.
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: Remembering the South-South in Action, Not Words
For many years, the South-South felt forgotten at the center. But today, we can say clearly: the South-
South is back on the national development map. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated this
not through speeches, but through policy decisions that matter to our people.
i. The South-South Development Commission: A Turning Point for Our Region
The establishment of the South-South Development Commission is one of the most significant
milestones in the history of our region.
This commission means:
- Focused development for oil-producing communities,
- Targeted infrastructure for riverine and coastal areas,
- Environmental remediation for polluted lands and waterways,
- Jobs and opportunities for our youths.
This is not charity. This is justice.
It shows a President who understands that the South-South deserves its own development vehicle—
just like other regions. But institutions like this need time to grow. They cannot be abandoned
halfway.
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
ii. Economic Reforms That Will Benefit Delta in the Long Run
We all felt the impact of subsidy removal. But let us speak honestly – the old system did not serve our
people. It enriched middlemen while our roads, schools, and hospitals suffered.
Today, resources are
being redirected toward development and social support. With continuity, these reforms will translate
into:
- Better infrastructure funding,
- Expanded youth empowerment programs,
- Stronger support for small businesses and farmers.
Delta State stands to gain more when these reforms are fully stabilized.
- Governor Sheriff Oborevwori: A Governor Who Feels Our Pain and Delivers Results
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is not a stranger to the Delta story. He knows where the shoe pinches
because he has walked the same roads as the people. His leadership style is simple: listen first, act
decisively, and carry everyone along.
i. Projects You Can See Across Delta State
Today, development is not concentrated in one area—it is spread across the state.
- Roads linking communities are opening up economic opportunities.
- Health facilities are being upgraded closer to the people.
- Schools are receiving attention, ensuring a better future for our children.
- Riverine communities are no longer afterthoughts.
The restructuring of the Ministry of Works has ensured projects move faster and contractors are held
accountable. This is why Deltans can see progress—not excuses.
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
ii. Peace Is the Foundation of Development
Ask any trader, youth leader, or traditional ruler—Delta State is more peaceful today.
Political quarrels have reduced. Stakeholders now sit together. Communities are calmer. Investors are
more confident. This peace is not accidental. It is the result of Governor Oborevwori’s inclusive and
consultative leadership.
Peace is development. Without peace, there can be no progress.
Why would we risk this stability?
iii. Empowering Our Youths and Supporting Our People. From skills acquisition to empowerment
programs, from women-focused initiatives to community-based support, this administration
understands that development must touch lives, not just statistics.
The M.O.R.E. Agenda is working because it speaks directly to:
- Meaningful development,
- Opportunities for all,
- Realistic reforms,
- Enhanced peace and security.
This agenda deserves time to deliver even more.
Delta and Abuja Working Together: Why Alignment Matters
When Asaba and Abuja are aligned, Delta benefits. Governor Oborevwori’s relationship with
President Tinubu has opened doors: - Faster federal approvals,
- Better access to national programs,
- Stronger partnerships for infrastructure and investment.
This alignment is strategic. Breaking it would only slow down development.
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
CONCLUSION
2027 is about protecting our progress
My fellow Deltans and Patani people:
We have waited too long for meaningful development to start playing politics with progress. What we
are building today must be protected tomorrow.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown commitment to the South-South.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has shown commitment to every part of Delta State.
2027 is not about personalities.
It is about projects, peace, and progress.
Let us vote to continue the journey.
Let us vote to complete the work.
Let us vote for stability, development, and unity.
Continuity is our strength.
Continuity is our future.
Tinubu for Nigeria.
Oborevwori for Delta State.
Hon. (Barr.) ‘Timi Tonye, Ph.D.
THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
