The senator representing Delta South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has distributed over 7,750 bags of rice and more than 1,000 empowerment items to constituents in a bid to alleviate economic hardship and enhance self-reliance within the district.
The distribution, held at the Oleh Township Stadium in Isoko South Local Government Area, included a variety of tools and resources aimed at promoting agricultural productivity, trade, and entrepreneurship. Among the items distributed were 150 cassava grating machines, 230 grinding machines, 170 deep freezers, 200 cutlasses, 200 safety boots, 200 hand gloves, 200 insecticides, 200 herbicides, 200 knapsacks, 250 safety life jackets, 250 fishing nets, 500 fishing hooks, 10 Yamaha outboard engines, 50 sewing machines, and starter packs for those trained in various trades.
Speaking at the event, Senator Joel-Onowakpo emphasized that this was the fifth empowerment initiative he had conducted since assuming office. He attributed the need for such interventions to the economic challenges resulting from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, which aim to correct years of economic mismanagement.
“This has become necessary due to the prevailing economic hardship occasioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold reforms to reposition our country for greatness,” Joel-Onowakpo stated. “In just 18 months, we have not only supported our constituents with empowerment initiatives but also secured 280 appointments, ranging from Senior Special Advisers to Technical Assistants, creating opportunities for grassroots engagement and representation.”
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Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, distributes over 7,750 bags of rice and more than 1,000 empowerment items to constituents[/caption]
Highlighting his legislative achievements, the senator revealed that he had influenced over 23 projects within his senatorial district, including rural electrification projects, internal road constructions, and the installation of solar lights and transformers in key communities. Among the notable projects are the construction of an ICT center in Emede, electrification of Aviara-Irri, Ayakoromo road construction, and the rehabilitation of health centers and skill acquisition centers in Oleh and Emede.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo also underscored the importance of constituency projects as a means of addressing local challenges and complementing executive efforts. “Constituency projects are essential tools for legislators to meet the yearnings and aspirations of their constituents. Our achievements have been made possible because President Tinubu understands the needs of the people and prioritizes projects that directly impact communities,” he explained.
The senator assured constituents that more projects and initiatives would be implemented to mitigate the effects of ongoing reforms, urging beneficiaries to make judicious use of the empowerment items. “These initiatives are geared toward ensuring food security and improving livelihoods. While not everyone can benefit at the same time, I want to assure those yet to receive that their turn will come soon,” he said.
The event, attended by a diverse group of beneficiaries, stakeholders, and community leaders, underscored Senator Joel-Onowakpo’s commitment to fostering development and addressing the needs of his constituents. His efforts were lauded as a model of proactive representation aimed at transforming lives and promoting sustainable growth in Delta South Senatorial District.
