N5.1bn International Conference Centre, Not People-Oriented Project, Mulade Tells Okowa

A Delta born Peace and Environmental Justice advocate, Comrade Chief Mulade Sheriff has charged the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to embark on people-oriented projects that will benefit Deltans instead of constructing an international conference centre in Asaba, the State Capital.

Comrade Mulade gave the charge on Thursday 20th May, 2022, shortly after an announcement by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu that the State Governor had approved the construction of an International Conference Centre in Asaba at the cost of N5.1 billion.

Briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Charles Aniagwu announced that EXCO had approved the construction of an International Conference Centre for the development of the State Capital, Asaba, into a mega city. According to Aniagwu, the State Government intends to complete the project within 12 months and had also approved 35 percent mobilization fees to the contractor to ensure prompt delivery of the project.

Chief Mulade who is also the Ibe-soromowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West LGA of Delta State, said such funds should be used for the constructions of link roads, bridges, health centres and many other socio-economic projects for the development of rural areas of the State. He said an International Conference Centre is an elephant project which will have no positive impact on the economy of the State, especially because Asaba already has similar projects such as the Event Centre and File House, that have contributed nothing to the State’s IGR.

While condemning the project approved by the State EXCO, Chief Sheriff Mulade strongly appealed to the State Governor to channel the funds to more productive and impactful projects that will open up and connect the hinterland, fight against insecurity, rather than constructing an international conference centre which is merely for political gains. He urged the Governor to revamp the State’s economy especially by developing Warri City, the commercial nerve centre of Delta State.

I want to strongly appeal to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to used the remaining days of his administration to industrialized the State to create employment, reduce insecurity and crime.