By Nkem Nwaeke
In a significant demonstration of legislative diligence and executive synergy, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, presented seven key bills to the State Governor, Rt Hon (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, for assent.
The event, held at Government House, Asaba, was attended by top officials of the House, including Deputy Speaker Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo, Majority Leader Hon Emeka Nwaobi, Majority Whip Hon Bernard Odior, and Clerk of the House, Barr. Aghoghophia Otto.
Their presence further underscored the collective commitment of the 8th Assembly to legislative excellence and good governance.
Rt Hon Guwor, known for his legislative acumen and strategic leadership, emphasized that the bills underwent rigorous legislative processes before reaching the Governor, in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The seven bills assented to are: Delta State Physical Planning and Urban Renewal Bill, Delta State Film and Video Censor’s Board Bill, Delta State Electricity Power Sector Bill.
Others are Registration and Regulation of Private Veterinary Clinics (Amendment) Bill, Child Rights (Amendment) Bill, Delta State Pets Control and Responsible Ownership Bill and Delta State College of Health Technology, Ovrode Bill.
Each of these laws targets critical sectors such as infrastructure, power, health, urban development, and child welfare, aligning with the state’s vision for economic growth and enhanced public service delivery.
Speaker Guwor explained that the Delta State Physical Planning and Urban Renewal Bill repeals the 2021 Urban and Regional Planning Law, correcting constitutional misalignments related to the roles of Local Government Councils in planning functions.
On the Delta State Film and Video Censor’s Board Bill, he highlighted its potential to create job opportunities and regulate film production in the state, noting its comprehensive legislative journey from May to November 2024.
The Delta State Electricity Power Sector Bill, he said, is a transformative initiative that leverages constitutional amendments allowing states to legislate on electricity.
“This bill will be a game-changer. It will attract investment and ensure stable power supply, which is vital for our economy and internal revenue generation,” Guwor noted.
Other bills, including the Veterinary Clinics (Amendment) Bill and the Child Rights (Amendment) Bill, were described as essential in modernizing the regulatory framework and enhancing child protection services, respectively.
On animal health, the Pets Control and Responsible Ownership Bill empowers the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources to prevent zoonotic diseases, ensuring public safety.
The Delta State College of Health Technology, Ovrode Bill, the Speaker said, meets the World Bank’s STEP initiative criteria and aims to train healthcare professionals to combat diseases like malaria, pneumonia, and other preventable illnesses.
Speaker Guwor praised the Governor for his responsiveness, noting that the swift assent to the bills reflects the strength of the legislative-executive collaboration in Delta State. He described the atmosphere during the presentation as one of mutual respect and shared vision.
“Your Excellency, the 29 Honourable Members of the House represent the voice of all Deltans. On their behalf, I thank you for the infrastructure development and peace we enjoy in the state,” Guwor said, also lauding the recent N1 billion soft loan initiative for MSMEs as a major boost for grassroots economic empowerment.
These legislative milestones mark another leap forward for the Delta State House of Assembly under Guwor’s stewardship. They reflect a growing commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused governance.
As the Oborevwori administration continues to implement its MORE Agenda, the Guwor-led 8th Assembly remains resolute in providing the legislative support necessary to translate policy into progress.
Nkem Nwaeke is the Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly.
