ASABA, Delta State — The Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area, Hon. (High Chief) Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Ph.D, has highlighted major infrastructural developments, youth empowerment programs, and bold security reforms achieved during his first 365 days in office.
Speaking at a press briefing held in Asaba on Wednesday, Ezenyili said the briefing was a demonstration of transparency and an opportunity to renew the public’s trust in his leadership.
“This is a public demonstration of my stewardship to the good people of Oshimili South,” he said. “Government is a continuum, and today we reflect on what we’ve done and where we are headed.”
Major Infrastructural Projects Commissioned
The Chairman listed several key infrastructure projects either completed or nearing completion:
- Oko Event Centre was fully constructed and commissioned.
- Modern Foodstuff Market at Cable Point, Asaba reached completion with new open stalls.
- Oshimili South Local Government Plaza was built on the site of the burnt Ogbeogonogo Market.
- A new Administrative Secretariat Complex is 60% completed.
- 150 KVA generator was provided for uninterrupted power at the Secretariat.
- 500 KVA transformer was installed for residents of Okelue Street, Asaba.
- Three acres of land were acquired for a public-private cemetery project.
- Groundbreaking for an Ultra-modern Event Centre at the Council’s old arcade ground was initiated.
Ezenyili said the aim is to modernize the Local Government to reflect its place as the host of the state capital.
Over ₦10 Million Invested in Primary Health Care
The Council invested over ₦10 million in improving primary health care services. This included sensitization campaigns on diseases such as cholera, Lassa fever, and measles, as well as vaccination programs and micronutrient distribution.
Plans are also in place to renovate and furnish health care centers across various communities in the Local Government.
Environmental Sanitation Prioritized
The administration continued its monthly environmental sanitation campaigns across Asaba, in partnership with community leaders, stakeholders, and residents.
A new waste dump site was provided and ongoing public awareness campaigns are aimed at transforming Oshimili South into a cleaner, more organized community.
Youth Empowerment and Tech Skill Training
Ezenyili announced the disbursement of ₦50 million to 500 youths, with each receiving ₦100,000 as startup support for small businesses.
In addition, the administration launched a first-of-its-kind digital skill training program in partnership with Ambassador Jerry Fuludu Oghenekaro, founder of Design Africa. 23 youths selected from all 11 wards are undergoing a 5-month training in high-demand digital and tech skills, including:
- Web Development
- 3D Animation
- Video Editing
- Graphic and Magazine Design
- AI Programming
- Drone Flying and Aerial Photography
- E-marketing and Digital Advertising
- Film Production and Directing
Each participant was also given a free Apple MacBook laptop to support their training.
Strong Focus on Security
The Chairman emphasized that security remained a top priority, listing several bold measures taken to address rising crime:
- A Security Trust Fund was created to support long-term security needs through public-private partnerships.
- A 12-member Security Taskforce was formed, made up of the Army, Police, NSCDC, and local vigilantes.
- The Council provided 2 operational Sienna vehicles and 5 motorbikes to boost patrol capacity.
- CCTV cameras were installed at the Council Secretariat after theft incidents during his previous term.
- Plans to install CCTV cameras in other key areas have been approved by the Peace and Security Committee and the Executive Committee of Council, pending legislative approval.
Drug Raids and Palace Collaboration
The Chairman praised the joint efforts between the Council, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), local vigilante groups, and the Palace Taskforce of the Asagba of Asaba, which recently led to the raiding and dismantling of drug dens and the arrest of suspected dealers and users in targeted areas.
New Emergency Short Code Launched
To ensure faster reporting and response to crimes, a dedicated emergency short code (7745) was launched on June 13, 2025.
Approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the code has already been used by residents to report suspicious activity. Several criminals were arrested around Koka and Konwea following tip-offs.
“Security is everyone’s business. The 7745 line is already saving lives and making Asaba safer,” Ezenyili stated.
Digital Revenue Collection
To boost revenue and eliminate leakages, the Council partnered with Yeahway Technologies Ltd to digitize tax and levy payments, ensuring all revenue goes directly into the Council’s account.
Welfare Support and Christmas Packages
Ezenyili also listed other humanitarian efforts by the Council:
- Financial aid to students, persons with disabilities, religious and academic institutions
- Distribution of 220 bags of rice to all 11 wards during Christmas
- Provision of Christmas packages and financial assistance to Council staff
- Clearing of outstanding staff claims and debts inherited from past administrations
Remaining Challenges
While celebrating progress, Ezenyili acknowledged ongoing issues, particularly in the area of security. These include:
- Lack of maritime policing
- Criminal movement across state borders
- Youth vulnerability to recruitment by criminal groups
- Invasion of Oko Community by herdsmen
- Proliferation of drug dens
- Rising prostitution among young girls
- Activities of street urchins in urban areas
A Call for Continued Support
Chairman Ezenyili concluded by thanking the press, staff, stakeholders, and the people of Oshimili South for their support over the past year.
“Together, we have made progress. Together, we will build a safer, stronger, and united Oshimili South.”
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Call 7745 to report crimes or request urgent security help.
