Oborevwori Tasks DESAA, Local Content Agency Heads On Economic Reforms
Strengthening Institutions for Growth
DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged the newly appointed Managing Director of the Delta State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (DESAA), Mr. Sebastian Okoh, and the Director-General of the Delta State Local Content Agency, Chief Stanley Kakor, to drive economic growth and institutional reforms in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.
Speaking at Government House, Asaba, during their swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, the governor described the appointments as a strategic move to strengthen critical institutions that support the state’s economic diversification drive.
He expressed confidence in the appointees’ capacity to justify the trust reposed in them, noting that their leadership would play a vital role in building a resilient and sustainable economy for Delta State.
DESAA’s Strategic Role
Governor Oborevwori explained that DESAA, established under the Delta State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency Law of 2015, is responsible for regulating, monitoring, and inspecting outdoor advertising structures across the state.
Given Delta’s strategic position within the southern economic corridor, he noted that the state remains a hub for outdoor advertising activities. He emphasized that effective regulation is necessary to curb visual pollution caused by indiscriminate erection of billboards and signage.
The governor said Mr. Okoh possesses the experience and expertise required to reposition DESAA and ensure it operates in line with global best practices, enhancing revenue generation while maintaining environmental standards.
Advancing Local Content Policy
On the Delta State Local Content Agency, established in 2020, the governor said its mandate is to empower Deltans economically, particularly in oil-producing communities.
He noted that the agency domesticates provisions of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development and Monitoring Act, including a 70 percent local content utilization requirement in extractive industries and mandatory patronage of local contractors.
The agency is also tasked with monitoring compliance with Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), Global Memoranda of Understanding (GMOUs), and other agreements between companies, host communities, and the state government.
According to the governor, strict adherence to these agreements and corporate social responsibility commitments would significantly reduce tensions in host communities. He also urged communities to uphold their responsibilities to foster trust and sustainable partnerships.
Call for Transparency and Collaboration
Oborevwori stressed the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the discharge of their duties. He advised the appointees to familiarize themselves with the enabling laws guiding their agencies and to avoid actions that could contravene legal provisions.
He further urged them to collaborate closely with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), private sector stakeholders, and community leaders to ensure synergy and peace.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Mr. Okoh thanked God and the governor for the opportunity to serve, pledging loyalty and commitment to discharging their duties without fear or favour.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials and other dignitaries.
