Rural Development Key to Delta’s Progress, Mulade Charges Local Government Chairmen

By Wilson Macaulay

WARRI

Renowned Niger Delta environmental and human rights activist, Sheriff Mulade, has called on local government chairmen across Delta State to intensify rural development initiatives in order to complement the infrastructural and socio-economic transformation agenda of the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.

Mulade, who made this call while addressing community leaders and stakeholders during an interactive session on grassroots governance, stressed that meaningful development at the local level remains critical to the overall progress of the state. He noted that while the state government continues to invest in infrastructure, human capital development, and economic empowerment programmes, local government administrations must take proactive steps to ensure that rural communities benefit directly from government policies.

According to him, sustainable development in Delta State cannot be achieved without effective collaboration between state and local government authorities, particularly in the areas of rural infrastructure, environmental protection, youth empowerment, healthcare delivery, and education.

Need for Grassroots Development

Mulade emphasized that local governments, being the closest tier of government to the people, have a constitutional responsibility to provide basic amenities such as access roads, potable water, primary healthcare services, and functional educational facilities in rural areas.

He expressed concern over the slow pace of development in many riverine and hinterland communities, noting that poor infrastructure and neglect of rural areas continue to fuel poverty, youth restiveness, and economic hardship.

He said:

“The governor is making visible efforts to transform Delta State through strategic projects and people-oriented policies. Local government chairmen must complement these efforts by ensuring that rural communities experience tangible development. Governance must be felt at the grassroots.”

Mulade further stressed that effective rural development would reduce rural-urban migration, boost agricultural productivity, and create employment opportunities for young people.

The activist commended Governor Oborevwori’s development blueprint, particularly its focus on inclusive growth, infrastructure renewal, and improved welfare for citizens. He urged local government leaders to align their policies and programmes with the governor’s development agenda to ensure uniform progress across the state.

He noted that synergy between the state and local governments would accelerate project delivery, enhance service provision, and improve living standards in rural communities.

Mulade also encouraged local government chairmen to adopt transparent governance practices, prioritize community needs, and ensure prudent management of public resources. He stressed that accountability and responsible leadership remain critical in achieving sustainable grassroots development.

Highlighting the importance of accountability, Mulade urged local government officials to maintain regular engagement with community stakeholders, traditional rulers, and youth groups in order to identify pressing developmental challenges and design effective solutions.

He emphasized that community participation in governance would enhance trust, reduce conflicts, and promote sustainable development outcomes.

He further called on local government councils to invest in skills acquisition programmes, small-scale enterprise support, and agricultural initiatives to empower rural dwellers and stimulate local economies, noting that economic empowerment remains a vital tool for tackling unemployment and insecurity.

Community leaders and stakeholders present at the meeting welcomed Mulade’s intervention, describing it as timely and necessary for strengthening grassroots governance in Delta State.

They urged local government administrations to respond positively to the call by prioritizing rural development and supporting the state government’s efforts to deliver dividends of democracy to all citizens. Some stakeholders also emphasized the need for improved monitoring mechanisms to ensure that development projects are effectively executed and maintained.

Mulade concluded by reiterating that the future of Delta State depends largely on the effectiveness of governance at the grassroots level. He stressed that collective commitment by state and local authorities would guarantee balanced development and long-term prosperity for the people.

He expressed optimism that increased collaboration, accountability, and people-centered policies would accelerate rural transformation, improve living standards, and strengthen the state’s overall development trajectory, ultimately ensuring that no community is left behind in the march toward sustainable growth.