The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, has called for greater economic diversification, accountability and inclusive development as the state marks 35 years of its creation.
The union made the call in a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, and Assistant Secretary, Comrade Josephine Omodior, to commemorate the anniversary of the state, which was created on August 27, 1991, from the old Bendel State.
The NUJ said the anniversary should not be limited to celebrations but should also provide an opportunity for Deltans to assess the state’s progress, identify areas that require improvement and renew their commitment to building a better future.
It acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations to the development of roads, bridges, schools, healthcare facilities and other infrastructure across the state.
The union also praised Deltans who have distinguished themselves in politics, public service, journalism, business, academia, the military, sports and other fields.
However, it said the success of development should be measured not only by the number of projects completed but by their impact on the lives of ordinary residents.
According to the union, Delta must do more to turn its natural and human resources into sustainable wealth, jobs and improved living standards.
The NUJ identified oil and gas, agriculture, waterways, the state’s coastline, human capital and strategic commercial locations as some of Delta’s major economic advantages.
It commended the state government for organising the recently concluded Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, describing it as an important platform for discussions on investment, economic diversification and sustainable development.
The union, however, said the success of the summit would depend on what happens after the event.
“The real value of the Summit will ultimately be measured by the investments attracted, jobs created, enterprises established and the extent to which its recommendations translate into measurable economic outcomes,” the statement said.
The NUJ therefore called for sustained follow-up, implementation and periodic assessment of the summit’s recommendations.
Looking towards Delta’s 50th anniversary, the union urged the state to place greater emphasis on economic diversification, industrialisation, technology, agriculture, agro-processing, human capital development and the blue economy.
It also called on the private sector to invest more in manufacturing, agro-processing, technology and energy instead of concentrating largely on the service sector.
The union specifically identified Warri and Asaba as key centres that could drive the state’s economic development.
It said Warri should be strategically developed as an industrial, commercial and maritime hub, while Asaba should continue to strengthen its position as the state’s administrative, commercial and investment centre.
According to the NUJ, the two cities could complement each other and serve as major pillars of Delta’s economic growth.
The union also called for balanced development across the three senatorial districts, with rural, riverine and urban communities benefiting from government programmes and private-sector investments.
It stressed the need for continuity, accountability and institutional stability in governance, saying successful policies and projects should be sustained by successive administrations.
The NUJ also urged Deltans to deepen democratic maturity by separating political differences from personal hatred and division.
It said residents should be able to disagree politically while remaining united by their common interest in the development of the state.
“Our diversity must remain our strength, while the philosophy of the ‘Big Heart’ should continue to promote inclusion, peaceful coexistence, equity and shared prosperity,” the union said.
On the role of the media, the NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to responsible, ethical and balanced journalism.
It said journalists would continue to report government achievements and challenges fairly, hold public institutions accountable, promote constructive dialogue and highlight legitimate investment and development opportunities.
The union said its vision for Delta at 50 was a state where young people could find meaningful opportunities without leaving home, industries could provide jobs, education could produce innovators and agriculture could become commercially viable.
It also envisaged a Delta where waterways contribute significantly to the economy, healthcare is accessible and public resources are used transparently for the benefit of residents.
The NUJ commended the founding generation and successive administrations for their contributions to the development of Delta State.
It urged the present generation to consolidate existing gains, address areas of unfinished development and build a stronger foundation for future generations.
“The journey has been remarkable. The next chapter must be about consolidation, transformation and shared prosperity,” the union said.
The NUJ Delta State Council congratulated the government and people of Delta State on the 35th anniversary and pledged to continue working with stakeholders to promote the state’s development, unity and progress.
