Delta @25: 30 enrolled into honours’ list

Let’s Build A New Delta, says Okowa; unveils New Delta Logo

It was a night of glitz and glamour as the Delta State Government enrolled 30 distinguished deltans into its Delta @25 Honours’ list with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa urging Deltans to embrace peace, love and cooperation in building a greater Delta.

Governor Okowa (in red cap) pose with some recipients of the award.

Speaking at the Grand Gala and Award Night which climaxed the activities marking the state Silver Jubilee celebration yesterday [27-08-16] in Asaba, Senator Okowa called on Deltans especially those in the diaspora to invest in the development of the new Delta State.

Awards were given to past military administrators and governors of the state, captains of industry, academia, entertainment industry, arts, and community leaders including Air Commodore Luke Ochulor [Rtd], Navy Captain Walter Feghabo [Rtd], Air Commodorre Ibrahim Kefas [Rtd], Olorogun Felix Ibru, Chief Onanefe Ibori, and  Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Others were Mr Jim Ovia, Mr Tony Elumelu, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Senator Stella Omu, Prof J.P. Clark, Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, Mr. Austin Avuru, Mr Peter Igho and  Chief Eddie Ugbomah.

 “We have come a long way since the creation of the state, this celebration has shown the resilience of Deltans even in this difficult time, I believe in God and the resilience of the people, let us not lose hope, let us not be  depressed by the present economic challenges, it is a passing phase, this is the time to rethink our role in the development of the state; we need  to embrace peace, love and trust in our ability to diversify the economy; it is time for Deltans especially those in diaspora to give back to the state”, he said, adding “Delta State in the next 25 years will achieve greatness when we all work together to bring about a new Delta State.”

Governor Okowa, left, presenting award to the son of late Governor Felix Ibru,
 Dr. Paul Ibru who received it on behalf of his father.

He commended Deltans especially participants in the various activities marking the 25^th anniversary saying that the experience was enriching to those in governance.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro said that the Gala and Award Night was the climax of an eventful and purposeful week in commemoration of the state silver jubilee which has deepened the administration’s knowledge of the best practices in governance.

The ceremony was attended by top government functionaries, members of the National and State Houses of Assemblies including Senator James Manager and Chief Monday Igbuya, former Deputy Governor Chief B.I C Elue, traditional rulers, opinion leaders and other prominent Deltans from all walks of life

Highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of the new Delta State Logo and anthem by Governor Okowa amid firework displays.