The Chairman of Ika South Local Government, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior has stressed the need for sustained partnership between religous institution and government, for the advancement of the society.
Ehiwarior made the call Sunday, during the second edition of the annual inter-denominational Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, put together by Ika South Local Government, in conjunction with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ika South Local Government Area chapter.
The Chairman disclosed that the Local Government administration under his watch has been working closely with the leadership of the Church, especially in the areas of prayers and counsel, which he stated had had immense impact on his administration.
According to him, “when we came on board, we felt it was necessary and germane to liaise with the religious bodies, knowing that we needed to be guided by God in our actions and activities, so as to be able to achieve our set goals,” adding that, “whatever that is anchored on God never wavers nor fails. In our governance journey so far, God has remained faithful in granting us strength, grace and wisdom to apply resources in areas that benefit our people.”
“As politicians, we may fail due to human limitations, but one institution that can stand the test of time is the religious body, as it derives its authority and strength from God,” he added.
The Chairman acknowledged the efforts and inputs of political leaders, especially the immediate past Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, whom he described as a bridge builder, having had the foresight to create a lasting synergy between the political class and religious bodies in the state.
Ehiwarior, while emphasing the importance of mentorship, maintained that every responsible leadership must be focused on positively affecting the lives of people, who, he stated, are the reason for any leadership positions.
He explained that the massive building of infrastructure currently going on across Ika South Local Government Area, was as a result of God’s intervention, and therfore, urged residents to remain steadfast in serving Him, promising that a lot more was in the offing.
Ehiwarior expressed appreciation to the Delta State Governor, His Excellency, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, for giving him the opportunity to serve as a member of his Executive Council, which he said prepared him for his current role as Local Government Chairman, and also for the numerous projects going on in the area, especially the recently awarded Uromi Junction flyover project, which work, he said, would commence in the first week of January, 2026.
He assured that, “as far as this administration is concerned we will continue to put in our utmost best to put smiles on the faces of our people, in conjunction with religous leaders.
“The partnership with the religious leaders is something we will continue to be proud of, even as we are working assidously to do MORE for our people,” he maintained.
The event had the Chairman of Ika North-East Local Government, Hon. Monday Odigwe, Chief Strategist to Delta State Government, Dr. Festus Okubor, the Secretary, All Progressive Congress, Ika South chapter, Mr. Frank Izekor, Hon. Cordelia Anyagwu and others taking the lessons.
Rev. Dr. Oke Akokotu, in a brief exhaltation at the event, challenged Christians to always uphold the virtues and values of the Christian faith.
He admonished Christians to see Christmas as an opportunity to teach the world more about Christ, especially in promoting love among the people.
