“Tinubu’s Economic Reforms Are the Pathway to a Better Nigeria” — Former Delta Governor Okowa

The immediate past governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, has praised the economic reforms implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing them as crucial steps toward a more progressive Nigeria. Speaking at a youth forum in Asaba where he was honored with the Living Legend award by the Delta Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Okowa criticized previous government policies that subsidized fuel through borrowed funds, calling such measures unacceptable and retrogressive.

Okowa applauded the current administration’s bold decision to remove fuel subsidies, noting that the positive effects are already visible in increased allocations to federal, state, and local governments. He highlighted that salaries are now being paid consistently, and local governments are in a better position to execute projects without needing financial support as was necessary during his tenure. However, he emphasized that there is still considerable work ahead to achieve full economic transformation.

Urging local government councils to wisely invest their increased statutory allocations, Okowa recommended focusing on public infrastructure development and empowering farmers and traders with grants and tools. He also encouraged youths to pursue productive ventures to secure their futures rather than becoming involved in political thuggery, stressing that youth empowerment requires active participation from the young people themselves alongside government efforts.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the State Commissioner for Environment, Ejiro Jamani, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development through skills acquisition, capacity building, and empowerment initiatives. Meanwhile, Chief Innocent Esewezie, Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, described the Living Legend award for Okowa as a well-deserved recognition of his service and impact.

The event, part of the International Youth Day celebrations, also featured paper presentations on youth empowerment and future building, including a keynote address by Prof. Hillary Ijeoma Owama, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) at Delta State University, Abraka.