Chief Ebikeme Clark, Delta State’s Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructural Development, on Friday embarked on a vital tour of Burutu and Warri south-west local government areas (LGAs).
Representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Chief Clark’s mission was to engage with riverine communities and address their pressing challenges.
The commissioner was warmly welcomed in Burutu by the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), led by Mrs. Ojobosu Ebifemere, alongside the Burutu LGA Chairman High Double Chief (Dr.) Julius Takeme.
During a stakeholders’ forum, community leaders, youth representatives, and women voiced critical needs, including enhanced women’s welfare, additional fishing and transportation boats, construction of foreshore walls, reliable electricity through turbines, completion of stalled projects at the marine school, improved staffing at the local hospital, and youth empowerment programs.
Chief Clark also met with His Royal Majesty, King Bosu Dio, JP, of the Iduwini Kingdom, who endorsed the community’s requests for vital infrastructure, particularly landing jetties in Ofougbene.
Following his engagement in Burutu, Chief Clark visited Ogbe-Ijoh, where he was received by His Royal Majesty Monbene III, Ama-Okosu of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom.
The Pere emphasised urgent requirements such as a public library and ICT center, electrification of reserved areas, staff housing for Ewein Primary School, a 1.7 km road to Ewein, development of the Pere Jetty, shoreline protection for Ogbe-Ijoh, and reclamation projects for neighboring communities.
Chief Clark met with Warri South-West Chairman, Chief Sylvester Oromoni, and council leaders, where representatives from Ijaw and Itsekiri communities highlighted additional needs for potable water, erosion protection, civic centers, internal roads, and support for small businesses to enhance economic resilience.
Chief Clark assured the communities that he would communicate their comprehensive needs to Governor Oborevwori, stating the administration’s dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by Delta’s riverine communities.
He pledged to implement coordinated solutions tailored to the specific needs of these vital areas.
