Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday commissioned and distributed 50 fishing boats with 15HP Yamaha outboard engines and fishing nets to fishermen in Warri North, Warri South and Warri South West Local Government Areas.
The Governor was represented at the event held in Koko, Warri North, by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
In his address, Governor Oborevwori said the intervention was aimed at equipping fishermen with modern tools to fish more efficiently, increase income and improve livelihoods in riverine communities.
“For generations, fishing has been an important part of the life and economy of our riverine communities. It is more than a means of livelihood; it is a tradition that has been passed from one generation to another”, the Governor stated.
Oborevwore noted that fishermen work under challenging conditions, often with inadequate equipment and rising operating costs.
“This intervention is therefore about giving you the tools you need to fish more efficiently, increase your income and provide better opportunities for your families”, he said.
Governor Oborevwori described the distribution as a practical expression of his administration’s M.O.R.E. Agenda, particularly the commitment to creating opportunities for all and ensuring that no part of Delta State is left behind.
He disclosed that the programme is only the first phase, and has directed the Ministry of Riverine Infrastructure Development to extend the intervention to other riverine Local Government Areas in the state.
The Governor also urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the boats, engines and nets and to maintain them properly.
“We recognise the important role our fishing communities play in our economy and food security, and we will continue to support them” he added.
Oborevwore further assured that government would continue to provide supporting infrastructure including access roads, landing jetties and facilities to reduce post-harvest losses and improve movement of fish to markets.
Governor Oborevwori commended the Chairmen of the three LGAs, traditional rulers, community leaders and fishermen associations for their cooperation and support.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure Development, Chief Ebikeme Clark said the distribution was in fulfillment of the M.O.R.E Agenda promise by Oborevwori’s led administration to the riverine people.
Chief Clark stated that the boats were specially built to withstand tidal waves and to support both fishing expeditions and transportation of produce from riverine communities.
“Today, we are not just handing over fishing boats: we are handing over tools of livelihood, instruments of peace, and engines of economic growth to the very people of the riverine communities of Warri Federal Constituency whose major means of livelihood is fishing”, the Commissioner said.
Clark explained that with the new boats and nets, fishermen can go farther, stay longer at sea, and bring in bigger catches, while also moving their produce to market faster to reduce spoilage and maximize profits.
The Commissioner added that the commissioning was just the first batch, disclosing that the remaining riverine Local Government Areas would be covered in due course.
He appreciated Governor Oborevwori for his visionary leadership and commitment to the socio-economic wellbeing of riverine dwellers, and urged beneficiaries and council chairmen to ensure the boats are put to proper use.
Some Lawmakers, members of the State Executive Council, Chairmen of Warri North, Warri South and Warri South West Councils, traditional rulers, and leaders of fishermen and farmers associations attended the event.
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