Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has stressed that the success of government policies depends on a peaceful environment and active cooperation from citizens.
He stated this during the Oshimili South local government area empowerment programme held in Asaba, saying that his commitment to people-oriented governance through empowerment programmes is to strengthen grassroots development and economic stability.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, said his administration is determined to build a prosperous Delta State where governance directly impacts the lives of the people, noting that while government will continue to provide support and development initiatives, residents also have a responsibility to protect public assets and promote peace within their communities.
He commended the chairman of Oshimili South LGA, Hon Kelvin Ezenyili, for consistently implementing programmes that align with the state’s MORE Agenda, describing the empowerment initiative as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth.
According to him, the programme was designed to take development to the grassroots by equipping beneficiaries with the tools and resources needed to improve their livelihoods, especially as the year draws to a close.
In his remarks, the chairman of Oshimili South local government, Hon Ezenyili, said the council remains committed to empowering youths and supporting small business owners as a pathway to sustainable development.
He explained that the programme was structured to assist petty traders, artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs with sums ranging from N50,000 to N100,000, enabling them to purchase essential equipment or restock their businesses during the festive season.
Ezenyili added that the initiative reflects the council’s resolve to promote self-reliance, stimulate local economic activities and improve the standard of living of residents in Oshimili South.
“This programme, is no doubt, a turning point for them and their businesses. This exercise is all-inclusive as it encompasses the entire local government area, devoid of political, ethnic or religious affiliations with the Hausa/Fulani, Yoruba and Igbo communities carried along.
“To ensure the exercise is transparent and targets the desired beneficiaries, the Council had engaged in a rigorous selection process through partnership with the leaders of each ward and above communities mentioned, with a stern instruction to distribute the forms only to small scale business owners/entrepreneurs which are qualified for the grant, with sufficient proof of owning existing businesses or evidence of certificate of completion of the skills acquired.
“The forms and accompanying documents of these beneficiaries submitted were further vetted by a committee set by the council for verification purposes.
“I therefore urge all beneficiaries to embrace this golden opportunity with dedication and make the most of the resources provided to uplift their businesses in a time like this when products and businesses thrive as a result of the yuletide period. A word, they say, is enough for the wise,” he stated.
