… As Agofure, Penawou eulogy Egbo’s bold initiative, described him as a leader with a clear vision
By Matthias Ogbagah
UGHELLI – The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor has commended Ughelli North Council chairman Olorogun Jaro Egbo for his pragmatic approach and bold initiative to give the council secretariat a facelift.
Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo made the commendation during a groundbreaking ceremony of Ughelli North Ultra-Modern Secretariat on Monday, January 27, 2025, adding that the initiative would greatly enhance the productivity of council staff.

“A good working environment is crucial for productivity. I commend Jaro Egbo for this bold initiative and trust his capacity to deliver the project within the proposed timeframe of one year”.
Also speaking, the duo of Delta State Commissioner for Transport, Onoriode Agofure, and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Kelly Penawou, praised Egbo for the forward-thinking gesture.

“This is an impressive initiative. I can’t help but feel a bit envious that it wasn’t built during my time here as a counselor. It shows vision and dedication, Jaro Egbo is a leader with a clear vision”, Aguofure remarked.
“This is a bold step, and I am confident that he will complete this project on schedule,” Penawou stated.
Earlier, in his welcome speech, the council boss, Hon. Jaro Egbo, said the Ultra-Modern Secretariat is a collective symbol to show that the council is the headquarters of the old Eastern Division and also the capital of Delta Central District.

According to him, the council came into existence ninety-three (93) years ago under Captain Miller Obrikogho Uloho.
“At a time, the council was in charge of the whole of Delta Central, part of Delta North, the whole of Isoko land, Ukwale Bomadi, and Patani.

“Ughelli North Council is the oldest council area in the whole of the area around here”, Egbo noted.
The speech read in parts;
“Today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey toward progress and development. The vision for this project is driven by our commitment to providing pro a conducive and functional workspace for the administration of our local government.

“This new secretariat is not just a building; it is a symbol of our resolve to modernize governance, enhance service delivery, and foster an environment that reflects our aspirations as a people.
“Over the years, we have witnessed the challenges posed by inadequate facilities for the smooth operation of the council’s activities. These limitations have, at times, hindered our efficiency and the quality of service we render to the people.

“The ultra-modern secretariat is designed to address these challenges and set a new standard for local government administration in Delta State.
“This project, when completed, will boast state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious offices for staff and departments, a well-equipped conference room for meetings, and other ancillary facilities to ensure a conducive work environment.

“This development is not just for the local government staff but for the entire community. The construction phase will generate employment opportunities for our youths, artisans, and contractors, while the completed building will enhance the council’s capacity to execute people-oriented policies and programs.
“I urge everyone to take ownership of this project, ensuring its successful completion and maintenance. Let us work together to build a legacy that will serve not only the present generation but also those to come”.

Among those present at the historic groundbreaking ceremony are the Vice Chairman of the council, Hon (Mrs.) Meg Atanor, HRM Oghenevwogaga Ebelle, Okorefe 1, Ovie of Agharha kingdom, HRM (Prof) Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III Ovie of Ughelli kingdom, HRM Onajite Igere Ovie of Ogor kingdom, Olorogun Miller Uloho; Comrade Lucky Ofomukoro PDP Ughelli north chairman among others.