Delta governorship hopeful urges ‘reset’ to tackle poverty and poor governance

Chris Iyovwaye, the Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate for governor of Delta State, has called for the state to break from poverty, unemployment, insecurity and what he described as failed leadership ahead of the 2027 election. Iyovwaye made the appeal in an Independence Day address released on Wednesday. He said the anniversary should prompt citizens to consider whether they had achieved freedom from hunger, fear and unemployment.

He argued that a person unable to feed a family, a graduate without work and a parent unable to access a hospital could not be considered fully independent. He said his message concerned not only Nigeria’s independence but also what he called Delta’s need for “independence” from poverty and poor governance. Iyovwaye said the state had substantial natural resources, including oil, gas, the sea and fertile land, as well as a large skilled population.

However, he claimed these advantages had not produced adequate living conditions, citing dilapidated schools, inadequate hospitals and poor roads. He also said young people were leaving Delta in search of opportunities elsewhere or abroad. His proposed RESET agenda would focus on changing residents’ outlook, diversifying the economy and strengthening public institutions.

The candidate promised to reduce the state’s dependence on federal allocations by attracting investment into industry and agriculture. He said an administration led by him would pursue industrialisation, convert gas to power, support mechanised farming and create opportunities for young people. Iyovwaye also promised reforms to the civil service and local government system, along with greater transparency in public spending.

He said government budgets and expenditure would be published. He urged voters to reject tribal politics and support what he called a new direction for Delta in 2027.