Delta South Senatorial District

17/03/2026

How Senator Joel-Onowakpo is Changing Ugly Narratives in Delta South

Delta South Senatorial District is one of the foremost crude oil producing senatorial districts in the entire country.

While other senatorial districts boast of Federal Universities, Federal Polytechnics, Federal Colleges, Federal Hospitals, Federal Agricultural Centres, etc, Institutions that bring massive infrastructural development, drive business growth, increase revenues, provide direct and indirect employment, our Delta South has been without a single federal government presence.

Using Delta State as a case study, a list of some of the Federal institutions in each Senatorial District are presented below:

DELTA CENTRAL
1. Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE): Located in Ugbomro, Uvwie LGA.
2. Petroleum Training Institute (PTI): Located in Effurun, Uvwie LGA.
3. Federal Polytechnic, Orogun: Located in Orogun, Ughelli North LGA.
4. Naval Institute of Technology, Ogorode: Located in Sapele.
5. Defence Space School: Located in Orogun.
6. Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Ovwian, Udu LGA, etc.

DELTA NORTH
1. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba.
2. Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba
3. Admiralty University of Nigeria, Ibusa (ADUN).
4. Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale.

DELTA SOUTH:
1. Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko, Warri South West LGA (Bill sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas).

Outside the above one single federal government institution which was recently backed by law after its bill was sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2025, there is no other federal government presence in Delta South since 1999 despite being represented at both the Upper and Lower Chambers.

This has resulted to high unemployment rate, youth restiveness, low economic activities and poor business growth in Delta South.

Thank God for the emergence of Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas 2023, who has devoted his time, energy and resources toward changing this ugly narrative.

For the first time since 1999, Delta South can now boast of a Federal University, a federal government presence in our region.

Our Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas is still fighting relentlessly. Anyone who understands how the National Assembly works know how difficult it is for Legislators to get their bills passed.

Now Delta South is eagerly awaiting Presidential Assent on the following bills, which are already passed by the Senate and undergone concurrence at the Federal House of Representatives:

1. Federal Medical Centre Oleh
2. Federal Oil and Gas Hospital Benikrukru
3. Federal College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Emede.

What else do you call quality representation?

Delta South Senatorial District got it so right and will not make mistake to destroy her own progress.

Thank you Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas. Delta South is fully with you.

Delta South is on a forward M.O.V.E with JOT

09/03/2026

Joel-Onowakpo’s nominee secures Oil industry job after NCDMB shipbuilding training

A beneficiary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) capacity-building programme, Engr. Ukane Lucky, has secured employment with an oil servicing firm following the completion of a specialised shipbuilding training.

https://thetrumpet.ng/joel-onowakpos-nominee-secures-oil-industry-job-after-ncdmb-shipbuilding-training/?fbclid=Iwb21leAQbXpxjbGNrBBtecWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHu1mJTHZo96IdFvwkO0_82ICmqG1a4hD81AApYVCis9tAxMTPpZ5hPnechWc_aem_yxhi7RTPqS0-tyTZ6VxEGA

A beneficiary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) capacity-building programme, Engr. Ukane Lucky...

03/03/2026

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Congratulates Arenyeka as Delta APC Chairman

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial District, extends his warmest and most sincere congratulations to Chief Solomon Arenyeka on his election as Delta State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement, Senator Thomas praised Arenyeka's exceptional leadership qualities, his unwavering commitment to Delta State's development, and his dedication to public service.

He noted that the significant achievement marks a new chapter in Delta State's political landscape, one that promises to be filled with progress, unity, and development.

"I congratulate Chief Solomon Arenyeka on this well-deserved victory.

"His transition to the APC is a testament to his vision for a better Delta State and Nigeria, and I have no doubt that he will bring the same passion and energy to his new role as APC Chairman."

Senator Thomas commended Arenyeka's emphasis on unity, inclusiveness, and grassroots mobilization, and expressed confidence that his leadership would strengthen the APC in Delta State.

He noted that Arenyeka's election comes at a critical time when the party needs strong and visionary leadership to drive its agenda and deliver on its promises to the people of Delta State.

"I am confident that Chief Arenyeka will bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the table, and that his leadership will inspire a new generation of leaders in Delta State," Senator Thomas said.

"I look forward to working closely with him to promote good governance, peace, and development in Delta State, and to ensuring that the people of Delta South Senatorial District continue to receive the best possible representation."

01/03/2026

A Profound Loss: Tribute to Elder Statesman – Chief Benjamin Elue

It is with a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of our esteemed elder statesman, Chief Benjamin Sunday Elue, former Deputy Governor of Delta State, who answered the call of our Creator on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the age of 85. Chief Elue was a renowned educator, an astute businessman and dedicated politician, who served our dear state with diligence, loyalty and humility as Deputy Governor under His Excellency Chief James Ibori from 1999 to 2007, playing a pivotal role in laying the foundation for democratic stability and progress in our dear State during its formative years in the Fourth Republic.

His legacy as a soft-spoken, kind-hearted, God-fearing leader and pillar of integrity will endure forever in the hearts of Deltans. From his roots in Obior, Aniocha North, where he stood for peace, development and unity, to his tenure as a steadfast deputy who exemplified loyalty, discipline and service to humanity, Chief Elue's life was a model of quiet strength and selfless services. He was not just a political figure but a mentor, father to many and a bridge-builder whose contributions to education, entrepreneurship and governance were visible to many.

On behalf of my family and the people of Delta South Senatorial District, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Lady Esther Onyebuchi Elue, his children, the entire Elue family, the people of Aniocha North and the government and people of Delta State. May the Almighty God grant his gentle soul eternal rest and bestow upon his loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Rest in perfect peace, Diokpa Elue!

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas
(Delta South Senatorial District)
Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content

27/02/2026

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEWLY APPOINTED ACTING IGP

I wish to offer my sincere congratulations to the newly appointed Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), AIG Olatunji Rilwan Disu. This elevation comes after many years of dedicated service and proven ability in various roles within the Nigeria Police Force.

Your appointment by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is a clear sign of confidence in your leadership and readiness to address our nation's security needs. I am sure you will bring the same focus and care that marked your earlier postings, especially in community engagement and operational effectiveness.

As we face ongoing challenges to peace and safety, I pray God grant you wisdom, good health, and the support needed to succeed. I also wish the men and women of the Nigeria Police Force renewed strength under your guidance.

Please accept my best wishes for a successful tenure. I look forward to continued collaboration for the progress and security of our dear country.

Congratulations!!!

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas,
(Delta South Senatorial District)
Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content

26/02/2026

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Congratulates High Chief Matt Offeh on 60th Birthday

Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas has sent warm birthday greetings to High Chief Matt Offeh as he celebrates his 60th birthday today.

The Senator described High Chief Offeh as a respected leader from the Isoko nation, whose work in business and philanthropy for people in Isoko, Delta and Niger Delta region has brought real change. He highlighted the celebrant’s role as Chairman of LESODA Group, a company active in oil and gas, construction, energy, and agriculture sectors.

High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, also known as the Eni of Irri Kingdom, has built a strong reputation through his efforts in the oil and gas industry and his generous contributions to societal advancement. These include facilitating street lights across Isoko land through NDDC interventions and covering educational support for students in need.

In a statement released by Paul Emumena Michael, the Media Director to Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, the Distinguished Senator said, “I heartily celebrate and rejoice with High Chief Matt Offeh, on this 60th birthday anniversary. I wish you a very happy and fulfilling celebration.”

“Your steady leadership and kindness have touched so many lives in our district. I pray this new chapter brings you good health, joy, success, and even greater satisfaction in everything you do.”

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas prayed for continued strength, good health, and blessings for High Chief Offeh as he enters this new phase. He expressed confidence that the celebrant’s knowledge and influence will keep having positive impact on the lives of people in Isoko, Delta South and beyond.

The Senator joined family, friends, and associates in wishing High Chief Matt Offeh many more years of good health, peace, and lasting contributions to society.

26/02/2026

The entire Delta South Senatorial District join Distinguished Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas to heartily welcome our beloved mama Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (CON) to Delta State.

We love you ma

24/02/2026

24/02/2026

HEARTFELT BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS

Dear Permanent Excellency,

On behalf of Delta South Senatorial District, I extend my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to you on this joyous occasion of your birthday. You are a towering figure of excellence, generosity, and unyielding integrity in our dear Delta State.

Your life exemplifies visionary leadership, selfless philanthropy, and profound impact on the Isoko nation and beyond. As a renowned entrepreneur, community pillar, and cherished brother, you inspire countless lives with your timeless class, strategic wisdom, and strong commitment to progress.

The title "Permanent Excellency" is richly deserved, revealing your enduring grace, principled character, and boundless contributions that continue to elevate our people and strengthen our shared heritage.

May the Almighty God grant you robust health, abundant joy, greater achievements, and many more fruitful years of impactful service.

Happy Birthday, my dear elder brother. Long may your light shine!

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, FCA
(Delta South Senatorial District)
Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content.