By Foster Akpore
The 93rd Urhobo National Day Celebration 2024, held at Urhobo House, Uvwiamuge, Agbarho, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, united leaders and dignitaries in honoring the rich cultural heritage and unity of the Urhobo nation.
Governor Oborevwori showcased his administration’s commitment to economic growth and empowerment, detailing initiatives such as the D-CARES program, which has impacted over 203,204 individuals, grants to 5,426 petty traders and entrepreneurs, agricultural support for 6,000 farmers, and the launch of the MORE Biz-Up program benefiting 2,000 entrepreneurs.
Governor Oborevwori called for unity among the Urhobo people, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing collective progress over political differences.
He said: “As individuals, we may have political differences, but the interests of our people, state, and nation must come first. This is why I maintain cordial relations with leaders across political divides.”
He further stressed: “I am the Governor of Delta State, and I must tell you this, whether you like it or not. I want to say it here: Mr. President you see is supporting this administration. God has made him the President, just as God has made me Governor. Support him, because if he fails, I will fail — but he will not fail, and I will not fail.”
Chief Barr. E.T. Opone, President General of Orogun Kingdom, led a high-powered delegation of Orogun leaders, including Chief Austin Oghenesivwohwo, Deputy President General of Orogun Kingdom; Chief Magistrate Enakpodia, President General of Umusu; Sir Felix Osawota, President General of Unukpo; Chief Isaiah Umukoro, President General of Imodje; Hon. Sylvester Oniemo Ovbije, Commissioner representing Ughelli North, Ethiope East, and Urhobos in Patani; Olorogun Dr. Austin Authority Akpede, Chairman of the Forum of Branch Presidents; Hon. Ebu Joseph Iroro, Treasurer of Orogun Kingdom; Olorogun Blessyn Orijedje, the Omovogho of Orogun Kingdom and Public Relations Officer of the UPU Rivers State Chapter; Mrs. Elohor Daisy Okpamwan, Ughelli North LGA Woman Leader; Chief Mrs. Beauty Akpoyibo; and Mr. Romeo Hitler Oghenenyerovwo, UPU Youth Wing Representative, amongst others.
Chief Barr. E.T. Opone remarked on the importance of the Urhobo National Day Celebration, stating: “The Urhobo National Day is a symbol of our collective strength and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage we must preserve for future generations. It’s also an opportunity to unify and collaborate for the prosperity of our people.”
Olorogun Ese Gam Owe, President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Worldwide, praised the contributions of past UPU leaders and highlighted Governor Oborevwori’s impact on healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. Representatives from other ethnic groups, including the Ijaw, Isoko, and Itsekiri nations, also commended the Governor’s leadership and pledged their support.
Notable figures at the event included Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly; Hon. Francis Waive, Member Representing Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency; Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi; Deputy Speaker Olorogun Arthur Akpowowo; Professor Ben Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress; and Professor Chris Akpotu, President of the Isoko Development Union (IDU).
The 93rd Urhobo National Day Celebration was a resounding success, blending cultural pride with a call for unity and progress, ensuring prosperity for the Urhobo nation.