By: Akpovoke Otiti
Delta State, blessed with vast natural resources and significant federal allocations, should be a beacon of development in Nigeria. Unfortunately, this is far from the reality on the ground. Under the current administration led by Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, the state appears to be stagnating rather than progressing. Despite lofty promises, there’s little to show in terms of visible projects or transformational policies.
When juxtaposed with other states like Enugu, Borno, and even Abia, Delta’s lack of infrastructure and development becomes more glaring. These states, with fewer resources, have made tangible progress in roads, education, public transport, and social services. Delta, on the other hand, remains mired in unfulfilled promises and endless political rhetoric.
In the transportation sector, there’s an obvious vacuum. While states like Lagos and Borno are pioneering transport reforms and building roads that connect rural communities to urban centres, Delta has failed to develop a coherent transport policy. Our roads remain death traps, with inner city mobility largely dependent on rickety tricycles and motorcycles.
Agriculture, a sector with enormous potential for youth employment and food security, has received nothing beyond lip service. While other states are building rice mills, supporting cooperatives, and encouraging commercial farming, Delta’s agricultural policy is non-existent. The result is widespread unemployment and an over-reliance on federal allocations.
The same underperformance is evident in health and education. Our schools are poorly equipped, and teachers are demotivated. In healthcare, hospitals lack basic equipment and medicines, with patients often resorting to private clinics at great personal cost. A state with our wealth has no excuse for such mediocrity.
The power sector and housing also mirror this neglect. There has been no major housing initiative for low-income earners. Rural electrification remains a myth in many parts of Delta. While other governors are thinking smart, embracing solar, independent power solutions, and affordable housing projects, Delta is lagging behind.
The Oborevwori administration must be reminded that governance is about impact, not photo opportunities or media praise-singing. Deltans deserve a government that works, one that invests in people, infrastructure, and the future. It is time for real governance, not tokenism. Delta cannot afford to be left behind.
