Former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, OON, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, the Delta State House ofg Assembly, members of the State Executive Council and the entire people of the State on the 35th anniversary of the creation of Delta State.
Elumelu, in a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, described the occasion as a landmark occasion in the history of the State, offering an opportunity for Deltans to reflect on the journey of the past 35 years, celebrate the progress made and renew their collective commitment to building a more prosperous, peaceful and united Delta.
He commended Governor Oborevwori for his administration’s inclusive approach to governance, particularly its deliberate efforts at building bridges of peace, unity and understanding across political, ethnic and geographical divides in the State.
According to him, the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and other critical sectors is further consolidating the solid foundation laid by the founding fathers and successive administrations of the State.
Elumelu noted that the growth and development recorded in Delta State over the years did not happen by accident, but through the sacrifices, vision and dedication of leaders and citizens who contributed to the building of the State.
He therefore paid tribute to the founding fathers and past leaders of Delta State, particularly the first civilian Governor, Chief Felix Ibru, as well as former Governors Chief James Ibori, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, for their respective contributions to the development, stability and unity of the State.
He said their commitment and dedication to the advancement of Delta had continued to provide a foundation upon which subsequent administrations could build.
The former Minority Leader urged Deltans to continue to cherish the peace and unity that bind the people together, stressing that the strength of the State lies in its diversity and the ability of its people to work together despite differences in ethnic background, political affiliation, religion and geographical location.
“Delta State is blessed with diverse ethnic groups, cultures, talents and resources. Our diversity should never be a source of division; rather, it should remain our greatest strength and a platform for collective progress.
“On this 35th anniversary, we must recommit ourselves to the ideals of unity, peace, inclusiveness and development. We owe it to ourselves and generations yet unborn to build a Delta State where every citizen feels valued, protected and given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the growth of our dear State,” he said.
Elumelu also called for continued collaboration among political leaders, traditional institutions, civil society, the private sector and the generality of Deltans, noting that sustainable development could only be achieved through collective responsibility and a shared vision for the State.
He expressed optimism that with continued peace, unity and purposeful leadership, Delta State would attain greater heights and remain a leading force in Nigeria’s development.
He wished Governor Oborevwori, members of the State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council and all Deltans a memorable 35th anniversary celebration, praying for continued peace, prosperity and progress in the State.
“Happy 35th anniversary to our dear Delta State. May God continue to bless our State, strengthen our leaders and prosper all Deltans as we celebrate this remarkable and auspicious event together,” Elumelu said.
