The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate in Delta State, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has called for a fundamental "reset" of the state, citing poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and poor governance. Iyovwaye made the call in his Independence Day address to Deltans on Thursday, October 1, 2026. He linked Nigeria's independence from colonial rule to the need for Delta State to attain independence from poverty and underdevelopment.
Iyovwaye argued that independence should translate into improved living standards, employment opportunities, access to healthcare, security, and good governance. He stated that a man who cannot feed his family is not independent, a young graduate who has no job after four years in university is not independent, and a mother who cannot take her child to hospital because there is no hospital is not independent.
The NDC candidate noted that Delta State had abundant natural and human resources but had not translated its wealth into commensurate development for its residents. He cited the state's oil and gas resources, coastline, fertile agricultural land, and human capital as assets that could support a more diversified and productive economy.
Iyovwaye criticised the condition of roads in parts of the state and expressed concern about young people migrating in search of better opportunities outside Delta. He said youths from the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Anioma, and Isoko communities should have access to opportunities within the state rather than being compelled to leave in search of employment.
Iyovwaye's proposed "Reset Delta" agenda would focus on changing the mindset of residents, restructuring the state's economy, and strengthening public institutions. On the economy, he said his administration would seek to reduce the state's dependence on federal allocations by promoting industrialisation, attracting investors, and exploiting opportunities in the oil, gas, maritime, and agricultural sectors.
The NDC candidate promised to promote gas-to-power initiatives, mechanised agriculture, and industrial development, saying the objective would be to create an environment where young people could build businesses and secure jobs. He also promised greater transparency in public expenditure and pledged that his proposed administration would publish government spending and budgets.
Iyovwaye described the 2027 election as an opportunity for Deltans to demand freedom from poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and poor leadership. He called on residents to use the Independence Day anniversary to reflect on the state's development challenges and support a new direction for Delta State.
Key points
- Iyovwaye calls for a fundamental "reset" of Delta State.
- Iyovwaye proposes "Reset Delta" agenda to address poverty and unemployment.
- Iyovwaye promises greater transparency in public expenditure.
