As Delta State marked its 34th anniversary, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has described the transformation of Asaba into a thriving metropolitan city as one of the greatest milestones worth celebrating.
Speaking to journalists after an interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, on Wednesday, Izeze recalled the moment the city was first announced as the state capital in 1991. He admitted that, at the time, he had mixed feelings. “Thirty-four years ago, I remember exactly where I was when Delta State was created. Honestly, my heart was broken when I first heard that Asaba was chosen as the capital. But today, here we are. I have come to love Asaba like home. Asaba has truly become home to all of us, and that alone is enough reason to celebrate,” he said.
The Commissioner emphasized the unity and resilience that have kept the state together since its creation, despite doubts at inception. “Many thought Delta would not survive because it was not a consensus state. But 34 years on, we have remained united. Since 1999, Delta is the only state in Nigeria that has consistently respected the principle of zoning. That alone is more than enough reason to celebrate,” he added.
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On development strides, Izeze highlighted the vast infrastructure now spread across the state. “Back in 1991, news revolved around just a few streets. Today, look around, our roads, bridges, and institutions show visible progress. Take the iconic bridge linking the Ughelli, Asaba Highway or the multiple tertiary institutions that now exist. From one campus of Bendel State University, we now have several universities, making education more accessible and preparing undergraduates for the labor market,” he explained.
He praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for steering Delta with clarity through the M.O.R.E Agenda, stressing that the state stands strong among its peers. He also paid glowing tribute to past leaders, including the late first executive governor, Olorogun Felix Ibru, and other eminent Deltans who fought for the state’s creation. “They are our heroes past, and we pray for the repose of their souls. We also remember statesmen like Papa Edwin Clark and others who stood firmly for the cause of Delta,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Izeze reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building an egalitarian society where every citizen has a sense of belonging. “For our children and generations unborn, we remain committed to creating an equal and just society, a Delta that belongs to all of us. Congratulations, Deltans, and may God bless us all,” he concluded.
