Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance while commending the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, for empowering 500 beneficiaries under the FOOSTODEY/Comrade Izeze Empowerment Scheme.
Speaking at the disbursement ceremony in Oginibo, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, praised Izeze’s grassroots-oriented initiatives.
A total of 300 women entrepreneurs and 200 elderly persons received financial support to boost their livelihoods.
The Governor lauded Izeze’s consistency in uplifting his people, assuring that his administration would continue to sustain and expand programmes designed to improve the welfare of Deltans.
He also applauded women for their steadfast support, emphasizing that his leadership would ensure that every community benefits from the dividends of democracy.
In his remarks, Comrade Reuben Izeze noted that his drive for public service is anchored on uplifting vulnerable groups.
He described the empowerment scheme as a reflection of Governor Oborevwori’s inclusive leadership, symbolized by his traditional title, “Ukodo”, a meal associated with unity.
“Supporting our people, especially small-scale entrepreneurs and the elderly, is the true essence of leadership.
” The essence of being a commissioner is not in big cars or buildings, but in the public good,” he said.
“This is our way of contributing to Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, and we will continue to support women, youth, and students whenever the opportunity arises.”
The initiative provided funds to small-scale entrepreneurs, including traders, bakers, fruit sellers, and food vendors, alongside elderly beneficiaries—many without family support. Izeze emphasized that empowering women has far-reaching benefits, describing them as tireless campaigners and faithful voters.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Adogbeji Ideh, hailed Izeze as a vibrant politician passionate about grassroots development. Other speakers—including the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Orode Uduaghan; Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Pat Ajudua; and Chairman of Ughelli South LGA, Dr. Lucky Awreromre—urged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely.
In her welcome address, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Olorogun Stella Ogigba, disclosed that over 4,000 applications were screened by a 14-member panel, with 500 beneficiaries carefully selected to ensure fairness and transparency. She described the scheme as a seed for growth capable of inspiring others.
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The highpoint of the event was the symbolic presentation of dummy cheques to three beneficiaries: Mrs. Ejevwentotor Currency, Elohor Atori, and Mike Vivian.
The event attracted top dignitaries, including the 1st Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Pere of Akugbene-Mien Kingdom, HRM Pere S.P. Luke (Kalanama VIII); HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II (Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom); Hon. Francis Waive, represented by Chief Bunor Agbomedarho; Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu of DESOPADEC; Chief John Oguma; Chief Patrick Fovie; and Chief (Mrs.) Roseline Amioku, Chairman of the Delta State Civil Service Commission, among others.
The colourful ceremony once again highlighted Delta State’s commitment to inclusive governance, grassroots empowerment, and sustainable community development.
Mamuzo Usiayo
