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By Our Reporter

ASABA – Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, has issued a powerful call for the state to translate its immense human, natural and fiscal endowments into measurable improvements in the living conditions of ordinary citizens, as Delta marks 35 years since its creation.

In a statement commemorating the anniversary, Ochei, now the Delta North senatorial candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), urged Deltans to look beyond celebration and engage in honest reflection on the state’s developmental trajectory since 1991.

“Thirty-five years after creation, Delta has undoubtedly made progress, but our enormous potential tells us that we can achieve much more,” Ochei said. “The next chapter must be about converting our resources into results and our potential into shared prosperity.”

The former Speaker emphasized that despite the state’s abundant oil and gas reserves, substantial internally generated revenues, and rich human capital, the full dividends of these advantages have yet to sufficiently permeate the everyday lives of the people. He argued that development should be measured not by government expenditure or project announcements, but by the real impact on citizens.

Ochei specifically challenged the leadership and people of Delta North to embrace a new development philosophy anchored on stronger institutions, quality education, productive employment, modern infrastructure and sustainable economic opportunities.

“Our young people deserve opportunities to develop their talents and fulfil their aspirations. Our communities deserve infrastructure that works, while our people deserve an economy that rewards enterprise and hard work,” he stated.

The former Speaker took a critical stance against the prevailing culture of political patronage, insisting that Delta’s next phase of growth must empower citizens to become productive and self-reliant rather than perpetually dependent on government handouts.

He expressed confidence that Delta’s greatest possibilities still lie ahead, congratulating Deltans at home and in the diaspora on the milestone anniversary.

“At 35, we have come a long way, but the journey is far from complete. This must be a time for renewed vision, stronger institutions and greater opportunities for our people,” Ochei added.

He concluded with a firm vision for the future: “Our resources must become prosperity. Our potential must become opportunity. And governance must ultimately improve the lives of our people.”

Ochei maintained that building a stronger, more inclusive Delta North would contribute significantly toward achieving a prosperous and economically vibrant Delta State for all.