Delta Youth Leader Applauds Governor Oborevwori’s Environmental Leadership, Urges NDDC to Boost Rural Development

The Chairman of the Association of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his steadfast commitment to environmental protection and sustainability in Delta State. He also urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to intensify efforts in developing rural communities.

In a press statement, Fajoye praised the Governor’s proactive stance in holding oil companies accountable for environmental degradation and ensuring host communities are protected from exploitation.

“Governor Oborevwori has shown exceptional leadership by prioritizing the preservation of our ecosystems. His ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability serves as a model for other Niger Delta governors,” Fajoye stated. He cited the Governor’s recent partnership with UTM LNG to harness natural gas reserves—an initiative aimed at reducing gas flaring and promoting cleaner energy solutions.

His commendation follows Governor Oborevwori’s reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to fostering cooperation between oil companies and host communities during a recent courtesy visit by Chevron Nigeria Limited’s management.

“While we welcome investments, we will not tolerate actions that endanger the health of our people or our environment,” the Governor declared, emphasizing the need for oil firms to adopt global best practices in environmental stewardship.

Beyond environmental initiatives, Fajoye acknowledged the Governor’s broader developmental strides, particularly in infrastructure. He highlighted key projects such as the Trans-Warri Road and the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriageway, which have significantly improved connectivity and economic opportunities.

Additionally, he commended the administration’s social impact initiatives, including the N40 billion facility to clear local government pension arrears and the recruitment of over 3,000 primary school teachers—moves that reinforce the government’s grassroots-focused approach.

Fajoye further called on the Governor to advocate for increased NDDC investments in underserved areas, particularly riverine communities.

“Delta’s rural communities need the same level of attention as urban centers. We urge the NDDC to prioritize roads, healthcare facilities, and youth empowerment programs in these areas,” he said.

He emphasized that Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to social equity is evident in his policies and projects.

“We trust he will champion this cause at the NDDC to ensure rural development keeps pace with urban progress,” Fajoye concluded.

With Delta State advancing its N630 billion capital projects budget for 2025—including N2 billion earmarked per local government area for roads—Fajoye expressed optimism about the state’s developmental trajectory.

“Governor Oborevwori’s refusal to borrow, coupled with his strategic management of state resources, sets a commendable precedent,” he added.