Prince Ugochukwu Ogbuenyi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party [PDP] Youth Alliance aspiring to represent Ndokwa East Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly come 2019. In this interview, he speaks on the performance of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration, peace building, empowerment, second Niger bridge and others. Excerpts

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

Based on his achievements so far, do you think Governor Ifeanyi Okowa deserves a second term?

Yes, I believe Okowa has done quite well to deserve a second term in office. There are many reasons why he should be supported by all Deltans to for re-election next year. First, he has done much to ensure peace, unity and harmony in our diverse and complex state. Without peace and unity, you cannot achieve anything.

*Ugochukwu

Now here is a governor who regards and treats every part of the state as his home. Gov Okowa is a natural peace maker, a conciliator and a bridge builder of immense characteristics. I think we are very lucky and blessed to have such an inspired and dedicated leader as our governor.

Now, zeroing on your constituency which is Ndokwa East LGA, how would you describe the situation of things with regard to developments there?

A: I knew from the onset that you would definitely ask me this question because the condition of Ndokwa East Local Government area has become an embarrassment to the nation.

The neglect and abandonment of Ndokwa East dates far back in time. The challenge facing Ndokwa East has more to do with lack of access road to most of its mainly riverine communities. It is a really big challenge judging by the swampy and difficult terrain of the local government area. The state government is doing its best by addressing the problems in phases.

However, meaningful support is expected from the Federal Government to ensure that most of the over 80 communities that make up Ndokwa East enjoy good all-season access road.

How would you rate the Okowa administration in the area of youth empowerment?

A: The administration of His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa stands out as the best ever in the very important area of job creation with particular emphasis on youth empowerment. Being a very intelligent, visionary and innovative governor, Okowa is using empowerment and skill acquisition not just to eliminate poverty but also to fight crime and insecurity. When the youth and the entire productive population are busy creating wealth nobody would resort to crime.

I can assure you that Governor Okowa is working towards making Delta the safest and most investment friendly state in Nigeria. As a member of PDP Youth Alliance in Delta State, I can categorically state that Governor Okowa is performing excellently in empowering not just the teeming youth but also the women and men folks.

Apart from empowerment and peace building, which other area has the Okowa administration made significant impact?

A: Many areas indeed but for lack of space, let me cite only few examples. Take a look at the Asaba Airport which was originally built as an airstrip. Today, Dr. Okowa has totally rebuilt and upgraded it to an international airport. Before Senator Okowa came, the airport runway was like a river, each time it rained no plane would be able to land or take off. That made the civil aviation authorities to ban the usage of the airport. But go to the same airport today and see what Ekwueme, our performing Governor Okowa has done there by raising the standard and profile of the airport beyond recognition.