By JKNewsMedia
DELTA STATE’s longstanding infrastructure hopes sharpened on Wednesday as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged the Federal Government to fast-track the completion of the Ogwashi-Uku Dam, underscoring its vital role in regional agriculture and water access.
The governor made the appeal during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, led by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Femi Adekanbi, at Government House in Asaba.
Welcoming the delegation, Oborevwori offered congratulations to Dr Adekanbi on his appointment and stressed the urgency of finalising the dam’s remaining works, particularly the reticulation phase, which is essential for delivering clean water to four local government areas—Aniocha South, Aniocha North, Oshimili North, and Oshimili South.
“We have a major Agro-Industrial Park in that axis, and the dam is critical to its success,” Oborevwori said.
“I hope the project will be completed by October. Its completion will address the water challenges facing Ogwashi-Uku and 16 neighbouring communities.”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to grassroots development, noting the approval of water sanitation departments in all 25 local government areas to further strengthen community infrastructure.
Responding to wider issues raised by the River Basin Authority, the governor pledged to review concerns around employment opportunities and the water situation in Ute-Okpu.
On security, he reaffirmed the state’s comparative stability, crediting discreet crime-fighting operations with preserving peace across communities.
“Security issues are not unique to us,” he said, “but Delta remains one of the most peaceful states in the South-South. The presence of expatriates working safely here is a testament to that.”
Oborevwori also commended the Authority’s local initiatives, particularly the production of garri. He encouraged the expansion of such efforts to benefit rural areas and promised continued government backing.
“We will support you to succeed,” he said. “Your success is our success.”
Earlier, Dr Adekanbi applauded the governor for his strides in infrastructure and youth development.
He affirmed the Authority’s mission to combat food insecurity and stimulate youth engagement in agriculture.
“Our focus includes commercial rice production, and we’ve partnered with the National Directorate of Employment to train youths, empowering them to become job creators,” Dr Adekanbi said.
While confirming the structural completion of the Ogwashi-Uku Dam, he clarified that the outstanding water distribution network must be finalised to unlock its full benefit.
He assured the governor of the Authority’s resolve to collaborate closely with Delta and other coverage states—Ondo, Edo, and Ekiti.
