The Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has reiterated his commitment to encourage more women to participate in governance.
Governor Okowa made the pledge after swearing-in five women among the 18 new commissioners in Asaba, the capital city of Delta State, south-south Nigeria.
Okowa stated that his resolve was a deliberate attempt towards enhancing women participation in the decision-making process of governance.
Avoid complacency
The Governor, who said that the commissioners were appointed on merit, charged them to guard against complacency and commit themselves to their responsibilities with a greater sense of urgency.
He stated, “I am especially proud that we have five women in the cabinet, the first in the history of the State. This demonstrates our commitment to enhancing women participation in the decision-making process of governance.
“We intend to keep working and delivering the dividends of democracy to our people until the end of our tenure. It is our desire to complete all the projects we have started and, by the grace of God, we shall do our utmost best to make that a reality,” the Governor said.
Okowa further said, “you must be innovative and strategic in your thinking, encourage and welcome new ideas, and be ready to take bold action. This administration has barely two years to go, but it is also a sufficient time to touch the lives of many more people through innovative policies and programmes targeted at their needs and aspirations.”
The Governor also urged the newly appointed commissioners to have a firm grasp of the Stronger Delta agenda and learn to delegate duties as well as encourage their subordinates even when they make mistakes.
“Be a role model both in your public and personal lives. I urge each of you to be an embodiment of integrity, humility, excellence, loyalty and accountability. Role models exemplify honesty and demonstrate high ethical conduct. There is nothing more confusing and uninspiring than a leader whose personal life is at variance with his public posturing,” Governor Okowa noted.
Exemplary leadership
He explained that leading by examples would create a connection between the political leadership and the followership.
“I trust that you will commit to leading by example as you begin your tenures today. May God grant you the knowledge, wisdom and good health to succeed in office,” he stated.
The five women and others sworn in were Evelyn Oboro, Princess Shola Ogbemi-Daibo, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, Mrs. Flora Alanta and Mrs. Kate Onianwa as well as Festus Ochonogor, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Arthur Akpowowo and Dr. Barry Gbe.
Others were Julius Egbedi, Christian Onogba, Lawrence Ejiofor, Ifeanyi Egwunyenga and Noel Omodon, as well as Churchill Amagada, Jonathan Ukodhiko, Johnbull Edema and Fidelis Tilije.
Responding on behalf of the new commissioners, Fidelis Tilije thanked the governor for finding them worthy to be appointed and assured of their resolve to be firm in carrying out their duties.
He pledged, “we would be truthful to all our people and remain close to our communities. We will join you in creating initiatives to ensure that you leave long-lasting legacies for the people.”
In March this year, 17 women took oath of office as vice chairmen out of the 25 local government councils in the state.
Emmanuel Ukoh
