By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has described the transformation of the state capital, Asaba, into a metropolitan city as one of the many reasons Deltans should celebrate the state’s 34th anniversary.
Speaking with journalists after the interdenominational thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, on Wednesday, Izeze recalled his emotions at the announcement of Asaba as the state capital in 1991, admitting 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 highlighted the unity and resilience that have held Delta together since creation, despite doubts and skepticism at inception.
“Many had thought Delta would not survive because it wasn’t a consensus state. But 34 years on, we have remained united, with successive democratic governments, and Delta is the only state in Nigeria that has consistently respected the principle of zoning since the return of democracy in 1999. That alone is more than enough reason to celebrate,” he added.
On the strides of development, Izeze noted the vast infrastructural transformation across the state, contrasting it with the early days when news revolved around just a few streets.
“Today, look around whether it is our roads, bridges, or institutions, you will see progress everywhere. Take for instance the iconic Bridge that connects the Ughelli–Asaba Highway, or the tertiary institutions that now dot the state.
“Back in 1991, we only had a campus of Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University). Today, Delta has multiple universities, and our undergraduates are thriving, getting easier access to education and entering the labor market better prepared,” he said.
He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for steering the state with clarity of vision, anchored on the M.O.R.E Agenda, stressing that Delta stands firm and solid among the comity of states in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the journey so far, Izeze paid glowing tribute to past leaders and heroes of the state, including the late first executive governor, Olorogun Felix Ibru, and other eminent Deltans who contributed to its 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 for the cause of Delta,” he said.
Looking ahead, Izeze reaffirmed the commitment of government and people alike to building an egalitarian society where every Deltan will have 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. We will stay true to this cause, no matter whose ox is gored. Congratulations, Deltans, and may God bless us all,” he concluded.