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Esteemed Niger Delta Activist and Scholar, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, PhD, Earns Doctorate Degree from the University of Benin

Esteemed Niger Delta Activist and Scholar, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, PhD, Earns Doctorate Degree from the University of Benin

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, a renowned Niger Delta activist and scholar, was conferred with a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies on Saturday, November 25th, 2023. The prestigious ceremony took place at the University of Benin, located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, the Ibe-Uyadonwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, situated in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, is a significant figure in the Niger Delta struggle. After years of dedication and hard work, he was able to participate in the vibrant convocation ceremony and proudly return home with his PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies.

Upon receiving his doctorate, an ecstatic High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro stated, “This is a dream come true for me, and I have been eagerly awaiting this moment. I am overwhelmed with excitement.”

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro: A Man Devoted to the Niger Delta Cause

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro is a familiar name across the oil-rich Niger Delta Region. His profound commitment to improving the region and the lives of its people has made him a key figure. He has a grand vision for the region and has been tirelessly working to ensure it receives the attention it deserves.

During the height of the crisis in the region, he was in the Creeks, advocating for a better deal for the people. He possesses a comprehensive understanding of the Niger Delta Region and is acutely aware of the struggles faced by its people. His relentless efforts and selfless sacrifices have played a pivotal role in the fight for a better deal for the region. High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, a grassroots man with impressive credentials, is deeply committed to resolving the myriad of challenges plaguing the region. The issues affecting the region hold a special place in his heart.

Education and Career

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro is a goal-oriented, educated professional with a strong foundation in political administration. He has progressive experience that is highly applicable to an Executive Director position.

His academic journey includes a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin, which he pursued from 2016-2019. He also holds a Master of Public Administration and an MSc in International Relations from the same university, earned in 2008-2009 and 2007-2008, respectively. His educational background also includes a Bachelor of Science in Political Science Education from Delta State University, obtained between 2001-2005.

As a Chief Executive Officer, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro has successfully navigated the political landscape to secure support from divisions and external stakeholders, ensuring the successful execution of initiatives. He has cultivated relationships with leaders at all levels to develop and maintain support for effective system implementation. His leadership skills extend to initiating corporate strategy and implementation, managing people across several academic and social groups, setting strategic goals, and engaging stakeholders.

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro has over fourteen years of general management experience. He has served as a member of the Presidential Council on the Socio-Economic Development of the Coastal States of the Niger Delta, a member of the United States Institute of Peace (Usip), a Fellow Alternative to Dispute Resolution in Africa, and the National President of the National Union of Izon-Ibe (Ijaw) (Nuis) World Wide. He was also the Chief Protocol at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and is currently the Principal Consultant of Owelle Global, focusing on the Logistics and consultancy sector of the Nigerian Business Environment.

In 2006, he established Owelle Global Resources, a logistics and consultancy company that has since given birth to other subsidiary companies across the country. As the Chief Protocol to The Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), he supported the Chief Executive in his day-to-day operations of the program, which was set up to improve infrastructure in the crude oil-bearing areas of Delta State, create employment, and reduce insecurity-related incidents in those parts of the state.

Owelle Global was founded to help organizations improve their operational efficiency, directly impacting their profitability. They have consulted for several organizations in the nation’s MDA’s and SME sectors.

According to High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro, in the next five years, Owelle Global aims to focus more on Government MDA’s and seek collaborations to improve operational efficiency and process optimization. He believes that the Civil Service in Nigeria needs an urgent shift in operational methods, and his company will work towards improving service delivery and process re-engineering/automation based on the specific needs of the organizations they will be working with.

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro finds personal fulfillment in helping young people align or realign their goals and find clarity. He believes that long-term happiness and fulfillment depend on one’s ability to fulfill their unique purpose and fill a place in the world that only they can, making a contribution that only they can make. This belief, as articulated by Rod Stryker, aptly describes High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro.

High Chief Dennis Otuaro’s journey is an inspiration for young people everywhere. His story teaches how focus, resilience, hard work, seizing opportunities at the right time, and trust in God are crucial pillars for success and fulfillment, regardless of one’s circumstances.

Early Life and Education

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro lost his parents at the tender age of eight. However, even at that young age, he was determined to succeed and refused to let his challenging circumstances deter him. He faced the hardships with grit and determination, building a foundation that would propel him to the heights he envisioned for himself.

High Chief Dennis Otuaro began his academic journey in Warri, Delta State, where he completed his primary education. He then attended Ogbe-Ijoh Grammar School in Warri West Local Government Area of Delta State for his secondary education. He was admitted into Delta State University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, graduating with Second Class Honors in 2005.

His leadership traits began to manifest while in university, where he was involved in student activism, advocating for better conditions for students. He served as the Secretary-General of the Delta State University, Abraka Chapter, Delta State from 2002 to 2003 before taking over as the National President of the National Union of Izon-Ibe (Ijaw) students (NUIS) from 2003 to 2004.

After completing his National Youth Service Corps mandatory one-year program in Kebbi State, he furthered his studies at the University of Benin, earning a Master’s Degree in International Relations in 2008. A lover of academics, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro pursued another Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the same university, finishing in 2009. Determined to reach the pinnacle of academic excellence, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro applied for his doctorate degree program at the University of Benin.

Professional Engagement

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro is a patriot who finds fulfillment in serving his country. His education and experience have been instrumental in his various service engagements, which span his state’s government, the Federal Government, other social bodies, and international agencies.

He has served as Chief Protocol Officer to the Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) from 2007 to 2010, a commission created to improve infrastructure in the oil-bearing areas of Delta State, generate employment, and reduce insecurity-related incidents in those parts. He was also a member of the Delta State Waterways Security Council and served as Chairman of the sub-committee on security of the council from 2007 to 2015.

These experiences allowed him to bridge the communication gap between communities and oil-producing companies in the region and the government. He was able to bring the youths to understand the projects, the government, and the relevance of these programs for them. High Chief Otuaro has been a vocal advocate for the provision of infrastructure and restoration of the natural environment of the Niger Delta, given the harm caused by oil spillage and other activities of multinational oil companies affecting the region’s ecosystem.

In 2004, during the regime of late President Umar Yar’adua, he was appointed a member of the Presidential Committee on the Environment on the Niger Delta, which helped the government understand the environmental challenges of the Niger Delta region and proposed possible solutions.

According to the Chief of Gbaramatu Kingdom, “We will not stop speaking, we’ll not stop struggling, and we will not stop fighting, until the oil companies and the governments see the need to take appropriate steps to protect our environment so that our natural life, the ecosystem, is restored, because the environment is deteriorating every day”.

Between 2003 and 2004, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro served as a member of the Presidential Council on the Socio-Economic Development of the Coastal States of the Niger Delta. He believes these areas are neglected but critical to the economic development of the region and the country at large.

“Development is from the coast. In other climes, the coastal states are the most developed, but in Nigeria, the wealth is being collected from the coast to the hinterland. Development of the Region is critical. When you develop the Niger Delta, it will reflect on the country,” he stated.

In 2014, PROT Consulting awarded him a professional certificate on Leadership Challenge in the Contemporary Workplace.

Experience

As a diplomatic liaison with a long history of collaborating with a wide variety of stakeholder groups on significant public issues, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro has successfully navigated the political landscape and secured support from divisions and external stakeholders, ensuring the successful execution of projects or initiatives.

He is a highly organized and creative leader adept at multitasking and successfully accomplishing set targets. He has initiated corporate strategies and implementation, set strategic goals, and ensured they were measurable and implementable.

With his extensive experience leading several academic and social groups, he has gained an in-depth understanding of managing people and cultivated worthwhile relationships with leaders at all levels to develop and maintain support for effective system implementation.

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro has built a solid foundation in political administration required at the highest echelons of political administration.

Business Venture

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro is a man of vision with entrepreneurial savvy. He is focused and goal-driven and has established and successfully runs several companies while also serving on the boards of several others.

In 2008, he established Owelle Global Resources, primarily to help increase the profitability of companies by enhancing operational efficiency. The company has successfully sustained this feat over the years across a wide spectrum of sectors, including MDA’s and SME’s.

The company has thrived in the Logistics and Consultancy business terrain, with a string of excellent records in the efficient execution of programs and projects, as well as the provision of support for its subsidiary companies and projects across the country.

An active player in the country’s agricultural sector, one of his companies, Ibuden Tonye Agric Farm, has been vibrant in the sector, adding value to the economy.

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro also manages two security outfits and runs other businesses with his wife.

Chieftaincy Title

On September 10, 2008, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ibe-Uyadonwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri, Delta State, at the young age of 30. His dedication, goal-driven nature, and consistency have made him a ground-breaking figure, and his society has rewarded him for his steadfastness.

“I was conferred a chieftaincy title in my village at a very young age as the ‘Ibe-Uyadonwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom’ in Warri Southwest. The meaning of the title is ‘patriot of Gbaramatu kingdom’. It is very challenging, but one thing I believe in is service. My desire is always centered on service to my community, service to my state, and service to the government. Over the years, much of the work I have done is in the area of service. It doesn’t have to be all about appointments. I believe the greatest thing that could happen to anybody is having the opportunity to serve society,” he stated.

The Niger Delta Struggle

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro is a vocal advocate for the Niger Delta. The region remains underdeveloped, lacking basic infrastructure and suffering from environmental degradation caused by oil spillage, gas flaring, and other activities, particularly by the oil companies operating in the oil-rich region, which destroy the ecosystem and foster a low quality of life.

“I am a product of the Niger Delta struggle; I started facing those challenges at a very early age. Since the age of 18, I have been in the struggle,” he stated.

“All we are asking for is a fair share. You cannot be producing these resources and stay neglected. The oil accounts for 90 percent of the country’s export. Yet what we see is a kind of coastal case of underdevelopment. Underdevelopment of the Niger Delta is very pronounced. It is something that is notorious. It doesn’t need any investigation. The question is, are we going to remain like that,” he added, “We will not relent in the struggle to make this place a better place.”

Family

High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro attributes his successes in his endeavors to his wife, of whom he speaks highly.

“My wife, Mrs. Ebimoboere Otuaro, is someone that I see as a mother; kind, dependable, resourceful, and more. We were relatively young when we met, and at that very young age, when you don’t have parents and you come across a woman that becomes close to you and gives you meaningful advice, nothing can separate you from someone like that. It is by the grace of God that you find a woman like that,” he stated.

With diligence, honesty, and a belief in God as core values, High Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro looks ahead to the dawn when the Niger Delta region will be accorded its deserved place in the Nigerian project. He hopes to continue adding value to the business space, improving service delivery, process re-engineering, and automation based on the specific needs of different organizations.

Dream

“I have a dream that one day, we will have bridges linking our Creeks in the entire oil-rich Niger Delta Region, railway stations in the region, good roads, industries, good schools, well-equipped hospitals, and all the good things of life that we are supposed to enjoy as an oil-rich Region,” he stated.

Ondo Crisis: Group urges Ondo State Assembly to Declare Aiyedatiwa as Acting Governor

Ondo Crisis: Group urges Ondo State Assembly to Declare Aiyedatiwa as Acting Governor

 

Some concerns from leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have prompted an urgent call for members of the State House of Assembly to declare and empower the state Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as the Acting Governor of the state.

This decision was part of the resolution reached by stakeholders who emphasized the necessity of filling the vacuum created by the absence of the state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, due to his health challenges.

According to the group, governance and the state’s economy have been adversely affected during the governor’s absence, describing the situation as the state being in auto-drive without the governor relinquishing power to his deputy.

Under the auspices of Progressive Stakeholders, the leaders called on the State House of Assembly to empower Aiyedatiwa to act as the state governor, given Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s continued absence, which has impacted the state’s economy.

They argued that this step would keep the state functioning while also seeking the intervention of President Bola Tinubu to halt the impeachment process against Aiyedatiwa and facilitate his installation as the acting governor.

In a communique released on Saturday and signed by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Afe Olowookere, Chairman, and former Secretary of APC in the State, Hon. Raman Rotimi, Secretary, the Progressive Stakeholders expressed a Vote Of No Confidence in the leadership of the party in the state.

The group stated that the leadership lacked the skill to pilot the affairs of the party, among other issues in the state.

The communique reads, “In view of the current happenings in the party ‘APC’ and the government of Ondo State, APC Leaders across the 18 Local Government areas of the State converged in Akure, the state capital, to discuss issues and find a practicable way forward from the present political impasse.

“The leaders, after exhaustive deliberations, arrived at the following resolutions: That, in view of the present arrangement where impunity and lack of respect for party structures, leaders, and elders is the order of the day, it was resolved that Party supremacy must be entrenched to facilitate inclusion and mutual respect.

“That, an inclusive developmental agenda for socio-economic, industrial, and cultural rebirth that will put the State in its rightful place should be designed by all parties and stakeholders to provide quality, sustainable economic and industrial development for the people.

“That, APC party members should be allowed to participate and determine those to be appointed or elected into political and party offices.

“That, Elders and Leaders of the party must be recognized and given their pride of place in the party, rather than being neglected and ostracised by the party.

“That, the prolonged absence of the Governor in the state has crippled the economy of the State and that the Deputy Governor Mr. Lucky Ayedatiwa should be empowered by the House of Assembly to function as the Acting Governor in line with the constitutional provision.

“That, the system of writing names of party executives and candidates without due process will be objected and resisted with all political and legal means possible.”

 

Billionaire Prophet Fufeyin shutdown Northern Nigeria with God Miracles, Healings, Deliverances

Billionaire Prophet Fufeyin shutdown Northern Nigeria with God Miracles, Healings, Deliverances

**Empowers scores in Taraba financially

By: Celestine Ukah & Rita 

The Founder and Minister in charge of , Christ MercyLand Deliverance Ministries a World mega Church, Snr. Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin has shutdown Northern Nigeria with God power miracles. healings and deliverances as the city wide crusade continues.

Snr. Prophet Fufeyin praying for a sick woman 

The healing and miracles experienced by the people took place at the ongoing massive crusade at Jalingo the Taraba state capital .

prophet Fufeyin during ministration of healing & deliverance session at Jalingo 

Snr. Prophet Fufeyin (Papa J) during ministration cast out demons and also prayed through Jesus Christ to bless the State, its people as well as abundance on every side.

Papa J as he’s also known has created history as he’s ministration attracts believers to come out enmasse to occupy Taraba Stadium to capacity,to witness him performing countless miracles and healings through Jesus Christ!, the Man of God at the crusade venue also empowered those healed and delivered financially in order for them to start up small scale businesses in their various communities.

Snr. Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin is also known as a philanthropic Gospel champion in the Nigeria, Africa and across the world.

PDP Chieftain Congratulates APC Leader, Otega Emerhor @66

PDP Chieftain Congratulates APC Leader, Otega Emerhor @66

 

Urges  Him To Join Oborevwori To Advance Delta under MORE Agenda

 

The pioneer and authentic visionary leader of the Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Olorogun Otega Emerhor, OON, has been described as a consummate and detribalized leader who laboured vigorously to promote his party.

Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Executive Assistant on Communication and Orientation to Delta State Governor, Dr (Barr) Wilfred Latimore Oghenesivbe, made the assertion in his goodwill message to Olorogun Emerhor, on the occasion of his 66th birthday anniversary celebration, and made available to newsmen in Asaba on Saturday, saying that the celebrant had positively impacted the lives of many Deltans and Nigerians, and counting.

Oghenesivbe noted that Emerhor, it was, who laboured so hard in terms of mobilization and huge funding to popularize the APC in Delta, saying that the time is now very ripe for the boardroom expert and politician to bid farewell to the APC, and join the Peoples governor, Rt Hon (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, to Advance Delta through the instrumentality of the superlative MORE Agenda.

He assured Emerhor of the brotherly love and warm reception of the governor, whose kind heart is open to welcome prominent Deltans, home and abroad, to join hands with him to bring about unprecedented infrastructure and socioeconomic development to the state, especially in the area of Foreign Direct Investments, FDI, in the manufacturing and industrialization sectors, so as to create more jobs and wealth for Delta growing population.

The EACOGOVDELTA posited that Emerhor is one of the few Nigerians who acquired multifaceted boardroom skills and expertise spanning over three decades and counting, and therefore, in a strategic position to assist governor Oborevwori to attract foreign investors, pointing out that his efforts in APC fail to yield tangible results due to the overbearing influence of some of his co-leaders who are self centered and narrow minded, leading to the present epileptic condition of the party in the state.

“I join the good people of Delta State to heartily congratulate an illustrious son of Urhobo Nation and patriotic Nigerian, Olorogun Otega Emerhor, OON, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary celebration.

“Sir, you are indeed a God-fearing, detribalized and a consummate leader who has positively impacted the lives of many people, and I make bold to say that am one of the numerous beneficiaries of you large large and progressive politics.

“However, I feel the time is ripe for you to say goodbye to the unprogressive party, the APC, a party that deliberately and knowingly crumbled our national economy within 8 years, and without remorse. You laboured so hard for the APC, but your efforts yielded little or no results due largely to the selfish and overbearing influence of your co-leaders who are now unscrupolously feeding fat on your sweat and genuine efforts.

“I urge you today, my former good Boss, to come join hands with your governor and brother, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to Advance Delta in the area of attracting Foreign Direct Investments, FDI, in the manufacturing and industrialization sectors under the MORE Agenda. The governor is willing and ready to receive you, and to work with him till May 29, 2031. Arise, the time is now.

“Today, as you celebrate your birthday anniversary and colourful destiny, it is my prayers that God continue to enlarge your coast, grant you more wisdom, good health and longevity, so that you continue to serve Delta and Nigeria, for the attainment of greater heights and prosperity,” Oghenesivbe prayed.

Taraba Invasion: Gov. Agbu welcomes Billionaire Prophet Fufeyin to Jalingo as Crusade records massive turn out

By: Celedtine Ukah 

 

The Founder and Minister in charge of Christ Mercy Land Deliverance Ministry. CMDM, Billionaire Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin  (Papa J) has taken an invasion crusade of deliverance, healing and empowerment to Taraba Stste Northeast Nigeria.

Prophet Fufeyin upon his arrival to Jalingo was welcomed by Governor of the State, Gov. Kefas Agbu who also presented an award of Excellence to the Prophet of God.

Photo grid of Prophet Fufeyin arrival and crowd welcoming him in Jalingo & him  during ministration

The crusade which is holding at Rev. Jolly Nyame stadium in Jalingo witnessed massive turn out of people within and outside Taraba state as many were healed and delivered from different captivities and evil yokes chains broken through the prayers by the Prophet of God.

While ministering to the people of Taraba, God servant Prophet Fufeyin in the divinely charged atmosphere through God power prayed healing upon the sick, raised the limb and commanded different ailments to disappear from the lives of the oppressed and restoration of better health received by all.

Traditional rulers , Civil Defence, other paramilitary agencies, Boys brigade and lovers of the Word of God trooped out in their larger numbers to welcome Prophet Fufeyin and his entourage in Jalingo.

Prophet Fufeyin after praying and carrying out deliverance against the captives and those that surroundered their lives to God also presented cash token of empowerment to them all at the crusade.

Taraba state Gov. Kefas Agbu also attended the crusade 4-day crusade which began Thursday November 23 to climax Sunday November 26.

Celebrating the Life of Mama Agnes: A Beacon of Strength and Wisdom.

Celebrating the Life of Mama Agnes: A Beacon of Strength and Wisdom.

 

The College of Commissioners, who served from 2019 to 2023, joined in mourning the loss of a remarkable woman, Mama Agnes Avwenyotoma Tager, who passed away at the age of 86. Mama Agnes, the beloved mother-in-law of His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State.

They described her as a rare gem, saying her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

The ex-Commissioners in a press release signed by Sir Fidelis Tilijie ( Dean ), Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba ( Deputy Dean) and Mr Ifeanyi Egwunyega ( Secretary), on behalf of others,extended their deepest sympathies to His Excellency, assuring him that their thoughts and prayers are with him in this moment of profound sorrow.

“The loss of a loved one is a universal experience, and yet, it is deeply personal. The pain of parting is something that resonates with everyone, and we the former Commissioners are no different. We stand in solidarity with our Governor and offering our supports in this time of grief”, they said.

In the same vein, the former Commissioners also extended their heartfelt tribute to Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, the daughter of the Mama, adding that; “Deaconess Tobore, like her mother, is a woman of strength and grace. The passing of Mama Agnes is not just the loss of a mother, but the loss of a matriarch who was a pillar of strength and a source of wisdom to all who knew her”.

They noted that Mama Agnes lived a life that was not just long in years, but also rich in experiences and accomplishments.

According to them; “Her life was a testament to her strength of character, her resilience, and her unwavering faith. She was a beacon of light, guiding those around her with her wisdom and love. Her life was one that was lived with purpose, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Her departure from this world is a great loss and she will be dearly missed.”

However, the former Commissioners took solace in the belief that Mama Agnes has gone to be with her Creator and prayed for her soul to find eternal peace and rest until the day of Resurrection when all will be reunited.

They also used the opportunity to remind everyone of the transient nature of life and encouraged everyone to live a life of purpose and to make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as Mama Agnes did.

They urged everyone to remember Mama Agnes not just in mourning, but also in celebrating the remarkable life she lived.

In conclusion, the 2019 to 2023 Commissioners extended their heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, Her Excellency, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, and the entire family.

They prayed for God’s comfort and strength to be with them during this difficult time just as they also prayed for Mama Agnes’s gentle soul to find eternal rest until “we all meet again in the Resurrection morning”.

Projects execution: Delta Govt. makes N30bn available for contractors payment

Projects execution: Delta Govt. makes N30bn available for contractors payment

 

Delta State Government, Tuesday, said it has released the sum of N30billion for the payment of outstanding certificates owed contractors in the state.

The State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Mr Charles Aniagwu disclosed this during an interview with journalists shortly after inspection of ongoing projects at Emevor and Evwreni in Isoko North and Ughelli North Local Government Areas of the state.

Aniagwu commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the approval, adding that it would encourage contractors to put in their best to deliver their projects on schedule.

According to him, not too long ago, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori approved the payment of contractors to the tune for almost N30billion to different contractors and that’s why you are seeing that a lot of our contractors have moved back to site.

“We are already making plans in no distant time to also continuously pay so that contractors can continue to work and our people continue to get value for the jobs that we have awarded for the ease of movements across the different 25 local government areas in Delta.

“We are not having any challenge and i am sure the contractors are doing quite fine and areas where they need us to fast track payment of interim certificates we have assured them that we will speed up the process so that at the end of the day nothing stalls the work they are doing,” he said.

He commended the youths of Emevor community for cooperating with the contractor, stressing that government would continue to sensitise the people to take ownership of projects executed in their areas.

“It behoves on communities to continue to cooperate with government and contractors that have been engaged by government to carry out projects in their communities.

“It is important that they own it, you will recall the last time I went on inspection, I did say that we are going to set up a call centre where the citizens will have the opportunity to interface with us.

“I am happy to announce that they are already interfacing with us such that if a contractor is not doing the right thing they can talk to us and if anybody is doing anything that will undermine the project the project in their communities they can also talk to us,” he stated.

The Commissioner also warned that the burning of tyres along roads are prohibited across the state and urged community leaders to continue sensitising the people to forestall further damage to the roads.

“The interface with communities will continue and we will continue to sensitise President Generals of community associations, the youth leaders and all such enlightened persons in these communities.

“They should impress it on their people for them to continue to exhibit the right attitude not only with respect to government properties but even private properties that are in their domain.

“By doing so, they will have much more longer time to enjoy such facilities and we will be glad if this road stands the test of time up to the next 30 years.

“This means that means instead of the community asking us to come and repair the road, they will be asking us to construct another one because whatever money we are going to bring back to repair what was intentionally spoilt could have been available for us to give them much more projects.

“Burning of tyres along tarred roads is strictly prohibited because once you do that, either in the name of protest you would have ended melting the asphalt in that place and once that happens you begin to have potholes on the road.

“We plead with our people to take care of projects that are sited in their different communities,” Aniagwu added.

States borrow N988 Billion, spend N1.7tn on trips, meals, others

States borrow N988 Billion, spend N1.7tn on trips, meals, others

 

The 36 states of the federation have spent N1.71tn on recurrent expenditures including allowances, foreign trips, office stationery, aircraft maintenance, and more in the first nine months of 2023.

This is according to an analysis of their budget performance reports sourced from Open Nigerian States, a budgIT-backed website that serves as a repository of government budget data. 24 states analysed by The PUNCH had budget implementation data covering the first three quarters of the year while 12 states had data for the first two quarters of the year.

The states cumulatively spent N802.43bn on salaries across the data period available, but The PUNCH isolated this data set to focus on other recurrent spending items. If salaries were added, total recurrent spending would have been N2.52tn.

Other recurrent spending items covered in this report include the amount spent on foreign and domestic travel, Internet access fees, entertainment, foodstuff, honorarium/ sitting allowance, wardrobe allowances, telephone bills, electricity charges, stationery, anniversaries/special days, welfare, aircraft maintenance, and more.

 

Of the 36 states, only 30 states have disbursed security votes (N87.45bn) so far. Also, the total borrowings of the states grew to N988bn as of the third quarter of 2023.

In the first nine months of 2023, Abia spent N17.61bn on housing/rent allowance, meal subsidy, entertainment allowance, wardrobe allowance, social benefits, pension, gratuity, internet access charge, telephone charges, local and international travels, office stationeries, maintenance services, consulting and professional services, fuel, financial charges, miscellaneous expenses, and others.

In the first two quarters, Akwa Ibom spent N92.54bn on allowances and social contributions, social benefits, travel and transport, utilities such as electricity chargers, Internet access charges, and more, materials and supplies such as office stationery, drugs, laboratory and medical supplies, maintenance, training, and more. So far, the state has spent N10 million on hosting/mobilisation of political associations and interest groups, N841.83m on entertainment at meetings, and more.

Adamawa has so far spent N40.90bn on non-salary expenditure as of the end of Q3, 2023. Part of its recurrent expenditure which includes allowances and social contribution includes N1.29bn on furniture allowance, N1.19bn on travel and training including domestic and foreign, N214.37m on office stationery and consumables, and N413.32m on refreshments and meals.

Anambra’s non-salary spend was N15.17bn as of the end of Q2, 2023; Bauchi was N70.25bn. By the end of Q2, 2023, Bayelsa had spent N58.26 on non-salary recurrent expenditure. These expenses include N2.18bn on training and travel, N1.81bn on welfare packages, N78.60m on burial logistics, N1.48bn on town hall meetings expenses, N48.20m on praise night/thanksgiving expenses, N17.70m on marriage ceremony support, and more.

Benue’s non-salary spend was N34.44bn. It spent N387.55m on special day celebrations, N434.17m on welfare packages, N7.06bn on security votes, N1.23bn on materials and supplies such as office stationery, books, and more.

Borno’s non-salary spend as of the end of Q3, 2023 was N32.63bn, Cross Rivers was N43.71bn, Delta was N152.15bn, Ebonyi was N30.91bn, and Ebo was N41.11bn. As of the end of Q2, 2023, Ekiti’s non-salary spend was N31.33bn. Part of this expense includes N2.74bn on local and international travel and transport, and N1.97bn on miscellaneous such welfare packages, refreshments, honorarium and sitting allowances, and more.

Enugu’s non-salary spend as of the end of Q3, 2023 amounted to N33.36bn, Gombe was N24.73bn (for Q1 and Q2). Imo was N58.21bn, where N1.21bn was spent on refreshments and meals, N866.81m on welfare packages, N3.26bn on allowances and more. Jigawa’s non-salary spend was N49.64bn which included allowances of N22.07bn, N1.18bn on transport and travelling, N1.83bn on materials and supplies including drugs, vaccines, medical supplies, stationaries, and more.

Total non-salary spend in Kaduna was N27.87bn as of the end of Q3, Kano was N17.79bn (Q1 and Q2), Katsina was N40.49bn, Kebbi was N24.51bn, Kwara was N41.19bn, Kogi was N58.02bn. Lagos’s non-salary spend was N289.49bn. These expenses include N741.34m as severance pay for political office appointees, N340.95m on aircraft maintenance, N8.07bn on plant and generator costs, N1.13bn on special days/celebrations, N107.79bn on special duties, servicing of meetings N11.45bn, N2.53 on welfare packages for the public, N3.69 on enforcement expenses, and more.

Nasarawa’s non salary spend as of Q3, 2023 was N28.13bn, Niger was N23.43bn (as of Q2), Ogun was N49.27bn (as of Q2), Ondo was N59.70bn, Osun was N42.59bn, Oyo was N24.52bn, Plateau was N7.99bn as of Q2, Rivers was N51.96bn (as of Q2), Sokoto was N20.89bn, Taraba was N24.73bn, Yobe was N25.07bn (as of Q2, 2023), and Zamfara was N29.14bn.

Total spending by states, including capital expenditure, amounted to N4.59tn in the period under review. States may not match their 2022 spending (N8.2tn) due to reduced revenues and macroeconomic challenges. However, there is growing concern that states are spending a lot on irrelevant items.

Government spending has come under increased scrutiny, especially considering the worsening economic challenges in the country. Recently, the governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Congress in Lagos, Funso Doherty, called out Lagos State for how it was spending public funds. This has since been met with public outcry.

In a letter to the government, he wrote, “I have had the opportunity to go through the register of public procurement awards by LASG, its ministries, and Department Agencies for the second and third quarters of 2023, as reported by the Public Procurement Agency.

“This attached schedule highlights selected awards which, in my opinion, require greater scrutiny.”

In the period under review, state governments increased their borrowing to N988.48bn to augment their FAAC allocations and internally generated revenue. 29 states now owe financial institutions and other government enterprises N536.01bn while borrowings from short and long-term borrowing from multilateral lenders such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, Afrexim, and African Development Bank by 33 sub-nationals increased to N452.47bn.

The PUNCH observed that the Lagos state had the highest domestic debt (N200bn), then Delta (N70bn) and Oyo(N58.87bn).

Similarly, Delta state is the highest borrower from multi-lateral lenders with N71.45bn in debts, followed by Lagos with N51.36bn, Akwa-Ibom (N27.04bn) and Ogun (N22.82bn).

Delta IGR to hit N12 Billion monthly in 2024, sets tax net  on informal sector – Says  Nwugo

** Tax clearance certificates to be ready in 72 Hrs after application online

 

Delta State Government has put measures in place to effectively capture the informal sector into her tax net with a view to increasing Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, to N12 Billion monthly in 2024.

Executive Director of Operations, Delta State Internal Revenue Services, Dr (Barr) Frank Nwugo, made the disclosure while speaking as a panelist during the 2023 DOPF Convention and Lecture Series on Wednesday in Asaba, saying that revenue generated will be judiciously spent by government to upscale the living standards and socioeconomic wellbeing of citizens of the state.

Nwugo noted that the state is in a new phase of accelerated development under the visionary leadership of the state governor, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, who is unrepentantly determined to Advance Delta in multifaceted dimensions, as encapsulated in his MORE agenda.

He disclosed that the state current IGR is between N6billion and N78billion monthly, but that the new board under the leadership of Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, is working round the clock to hit a monthly target of N12billion next year and beyond.

He said operations at the state internal revenue office had been digitalized, making it possible for tax payers to generate tax clearance certificates online, and within three working days, while assuring that Delta shall remain the best destination for investors and tourists, and called on prominent Deltans, home and abroad, to invest in the state with a firm promise that government would continue to partner with credible high profile investors and multinational corporations to boost Foreign Direct Investments, FDI.

In the same vein, a legal icon and member of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon (Barr) Bridget Anyafulu, urged the state government and the Internal Revenue Office to train and retrain revenue collection consultants, so as to drastically reduce corruption in the system.

She noted that revenue collectors are critical stakeholders, and until they are properly trained by the Internal Revenue Office, government may not reap the full benefits of their services to the state, pointing out that through regular training and enhanced digitalization systems, their activities can be remotely and proactively monitored to a large extent, so as to ensure that government is not unscrupulously shortchanged, while collection agents and consultants corners the larger percentage of revenue generated by them.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Delta Online Publishers Forum, Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, said the choice of this year’s theme: Fiscal Policy And Taxation – Balancing Revenue Generation And Economic Growth” aligns with the Forum’s commitment to contribute significantly to the Country’s development, through the prism of economic policies and their practical implementations.

He posited that economic growth hinges on investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and innovation, noting that all demands substantial funding, which is why as a media organisation, DOPF decided to play pivotal roles in shaping public discourse and awareness; foster comprehensive dialogue on these intricate matters, translating complex fiscal policies into understandable information for the public.

Speaking to newsmen after the lecture series, Executive Assistant on Communication and Orientation to Delta State Governor, Dr (Barr) Wilfred Latimore Oghenesivbe, described the organisers, DOPF as partners in progress with the state government, a relationship that will continue to grow, and be beneficial to all concerned.

He noted that Online publishers in the state have consistently maintained high ethical standards and professionalism in their discharge of their constitutionally assigned responsibilities as members of the fourth estate of the realm, adding some members of the group worked vigorously with the State Directorate of PDP Campaign Council during the 2023 general elections; reporting and publishing news items and articles that helped to project the MORE agenda of governor Oborevwori to Deltans and eligible voters.

Oghenesivbe assured that governor Oborevwori’s administration shall continue to effectively balance revenue generation with economic growth, as can be seen from the quality of infrastructure projects that is ongoing across the three senatorial districts, wherein for the first time in the history of Delta State, construction giant, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, was engaged to construct three flyovers and road expansion projects as a true reflection of good governance.

He urged Deltans to continue to support and pray for the governor, who he described as a forthright leader, a super administrator, detribalized Deltan that is determined to passionately and prudently fulfil his social contract with citizens of the state.

DOPF Annual Lecture: Ochei Advocates Balance Between Taxation, Economic Growth To Ensure Healthy Economy

DOPF Annual Lecture: Ochei Advocates Balance Between Taxation, Economic Growth To Ensure Healthy Economy

 

The 4th annual lecture series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), took place on Wednesday in Asaba, with Fiscal Policy and Taxation: Balancing Revenue Generation and Economic Growth as the theme.

Dwelling on the subject, the Guest Speaker and renowned financial expert, Dr Doris Amaka Ochei, commended DOPF for the choice of the theme, which she noted was apt, as it was key to the functions of government.

Dr Ochei said no government could function effectively without Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from taxes on the formal and informal sectors of the economy.

She stated that while the government would do everything in its power to maximize revenue, including multiple taxation, to be able to provide basic services to the people, the tax payers, especially those in the informal sector, would always aim to preserve their financial gains.

The Guest Speaker maintained that over-taxing businesses and individuals was detrimental to investment, and could reduce consumers’ purchasing power, positive global competitiveness, as well as discourage entrepreneurship and promote tax evasion.

Dr Ochei said to encourage tax compliance, government should simplify collection processes and streamline tax filing and payment procedures, utilize digital platforms and provide user-friendly interfaces, enhance tax-payer education, offer incentives such as tax deductions and credits, strengthen enforcement of tax compliance, ensure transparent communication and personalized assistance.

To increase IGR, overcome the challenges of tax collection and economic growth without over-taxing businesses and individuals, the Guest Speaker called on government to diversify the economy and explore alternative sources of revenue, improve tax collection, encourage investment, enhance transparency and accountability, improve governance and service delivery.

She stressed the need for government at all levels to strike a balance between taxation and economic growth to ensure a sustainable healthy economy.

In his welcome address, DOPF Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, said this year’s lecture aligned with the Forum’s commitment to contributing to the shaping a fiscal landscape capable of propelling the nation towards the prosperity and general well-being of all.

Enebeli called on the participants to utilize the pivotal discourse to pull collective wisdom and expertise that would help to strike a harmonious balance between revenue generation and economic growth.

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