In a powerful move to empower the youth, Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborewori, has assembled an impressive team of Commissioner designates. With a clear focus on fostering progress and inclusivity, the Governor’s selections exemplify his unwavering dedication to the development and advancement of the state’s younger generation.
RT. Hon Oborewori had expressed his commitment to being a youth-friendly governor during the governorship campaign, stating, “I will involve Delta youth in the decision-making process of my administration.”
While most of the nominees are deserving of recognition, it is particularly notable that the Governor’s commitment to youth empowerment shines brightly through his choices. Ms. Orode Uduaghan, Hon. Onoriode Agofure, Jamani Tommy Ejiro, Jerry Ehiwario, and Dr. Joseph Onojaeme are among the talented individuals poised to champion the cause of the youth in Delta State. Their energy, passion, and unwavering dedication to progress will undoubtedly pave the way for transformative policies and initiatives.
However, as Delta State sets its sights on progress, concerns have been raised regarding the limited representation of women among the Commissioner designates. Out of the twenty-six nominees, only four are females, while twenty-two are males, resulting in a gender imbalance of 15.4%. This glaring disparity raises critical questions about the level of inclusivity and equal representation in decision-making processes.
Critics argue that genuine progress lies not only in empowering the youth but also in ensuring equal opportunities for women to actively participate in shaping the state’s future. As Delta State continues its journey toward excellence, it becomes imperative for the voices and perspectives of women to be rightfully elevated and included at the decision-making table.
Governor Oborewori’s administration stands at a crucial juncture to bridge the gender gap and promote women’s inclusion in decision-making bodies. By doing so, the government will tap into the immense talent and potential of women, while sending a resounding message of equality and progress to the entire state.
The lack of adequate women appointments by Governor Oborewori has been observed not only in the current Commissioner designates but also in the composition of the Delta State Transition Committee in April 2023, after the governorship election, where only about 14.8% of women (13 out of 88 members) were included.
This viewpoint is further supported by renowned activist-scholar, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, who argued that “empowering women accelerates development. Countries leading in the human development index, such as Scandinavian countries, prioritize women’s issues. There is a need for gender-sensitive laws, budgets, women’s empowerment through training, economic opportunities, political support, and affirmative action.”
As the Commissioner designates prepare to assume their roles, the people of Delta State eagerly anticipate the transformative changes they will bring. This is an opportune moment for Governor Oborewori to reaffirm his dedication to youth empowerment while actively addressing the need for gender balance in the state’s leadership.
Governor Oborewori has laid a robust foundation with his emphasis on youth empowerment, yet there is still work to be done to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but also valued and represented in Delta State’s governance.
Only time will reveal if the Governor’s vision of progress and inclusivity will fully materialize, painting a brighter future for Delta State—one where both the youth and women can thrive and contribute to the state’s growth and prosperity.
Above all, the Delta State House of Assembly should note and ensure, in the words of Dr. Igbuzor that “ending violence, prosecuting perpetrators, and reviewing the federal character principle to include gender equity are crucial steps toward achieving true gender equality and fostering an inclusive society.”