Governor Oborevwori Approves the Appointment of Arieja as Executive Assistant.

Governor Oborevwori Approves the Appointment of Arieja as Executive Assistant.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the appointment of Chief Austin Arieja, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sapele, as Executive Assistant on Community Development in Delta State. The Sheriff Oborevwori appointment takes immediate effect, according to information made available on Wednesday.

The development is part of what the Delta State Government described as ongoing efforts to strengthen community engagement and improve coordination of grassroots development programmes across the state. The position places Arieja at the interface between the state government and local communities.

Political stakeholders in Sapele said the appointment signals a broader commitment to inclusive governance. They noted that bringing in a Sapele APC leader into the administration reflects an approach aimed at fostering cooperation across political lines in Delta State.

Party leaders within the APC in Sapele welcomed the decision, stating that it would enhance grassroots representation and deepen participation in development initiatives. They expressed confidence that Arieja’s background in party organisation and community mobilisation would support the state’s community development agenda.

Sources close to the administration outlined the responsibilities attached to the Office of the Executive Assistant on Community Development. According to the sources, the office is mandated to liaise with community leaders, monitor local needs, and support the implementation of government policies at the community level.

The role is also expected to strengthen feedback mechanisms between residents and the government, ensuring that development priorities reflect local realities. Officials say improved coordination at the grassroots remains central to achieving sustainable development outcomes across Delta State.

In his reaction, Chief Austin Arieja thanked Governor Oborevwori for what he described as the confidence reposed in him. He characterised the appointment as a call to greater responsibility and pledged to discharge his duties with diligence and transparency.

“I appreciate His Excellency for the confidence reposed in me,” Arieja said. “I am committed to living up to expectations and ensuring that community development efforts align with the governor’s vision for Delta State.”

He further acknowledged the support of APC leaders and party members in Sapele and across the state. According to him, collaboration and unity would be critical to achieving measurable progress at the grassroots.

“I also thank our party leaders and members for their encouragement and support,” he added. “I will work collaboratively to promote unity, effective representation, and sustainable development at the grassroots level.”

Stakeholders in Sapele described the Sheriff Oborevwori appointment as significant, noting that community development requires coordinated engagement between government officials and local leaders. They said the inclusion of Arieja in the administration could help streamline communication channels and accelerate project implementation in underserved areas.

The Delta State Government has in recent months reiterated its focus on strengthening institutional structures that drive local development. Officials say aligning state policies with community-level feedback is essential for effective service delivery and long-term planning.

While no specific projects were announced in connection with the appointment, sources indicated that the new Executive Assistant would begin consultations with community leaders in the coming weeks. The consultations are expected to focus on identifying priority needs and strengthening partnerships between government agencies and local stakeholders.