…Reaffirms Media’s Role in Development

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed the critical role of journalists in promoting public enlightenment, accountability, good governance and sustainable development, as his administration presented a brand-new 18-seater Toyota Hiace bus to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council.

The vehicle was formally handed over to the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, on Tuesday in Asaba by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on behalf of the governor.

The intervention, according to the state government, is aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of journalists and facilitating their movement while carrying out professional assignments across Delta State.

Presenting the vehicle, Ahon said the bus was provided for the use of the NUJ and journalists across the state, stressing that the gesture demonstrated Governor Oborevwori’s recognition of the media as an indispensable partner in the development process.

“On behalf of His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, I have the honour of presenting this brand-new bus to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, for the use of the union and journalists across the state,” Ahon said.

He explained that the gesture was also a reflection of the enduring relationship between the Delta State Government and the media, expressing confidence that the provision of the vehicle would deepen cooperation between the government and the NUJ in the interest of the people.

According to him, improved mobility would enable journalists to reach communities, cover government programmes and development projects more effectively, and report events across the state without the logistical constraints often associated with transportation.

Ahon said the intervention was part of the administration’s broader recognition of the importance of an effective and functional media in keeping citizens informed and strengthening democratic governance.

He expressed optimism that the new vehicle would further strengthen the relationship between the state government and the NUJ and create opportunities for enhanced collaboration on issues affecting the development of Delta State.

Receiving the vehicle, Oyowe expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori, describing the gesture as evidence of a leadership that backs its commitments with tangible actions.

The NUJ chairman said the union would not take the intervention for granted, noting that the vehicle would significantly improve the ability of journalists to discharge their professional responsibilities.

“We want to say a very big thank you to His Excellency for this gesture. We do not take it for granted. This is yet another demonstration of a leadership that understands the needs of institutions and professionals who contribute to the development of the state,” Oyowe said.

He noted that journalists frequently travel across the state to cover official engagements, community issues, developmental projects and other events, adding that the new bus would provide much-needed logistical support to the union and its members.

Oyowe also commended Ahon, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, and the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, for their roles in facilitating the intervention.

He further applauded the governor for the ongoing provision of solar power for the NUJ Secretariat in Asaba, describing the development as another demonstration of the administration’s support for the media.