Senator Omo-Agege Bags 2024 Political Icon At Niger Delta Advancement Awards

Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has been honored as the Niger Delta Political Icon of the Year 2024 at the 7th edition of the Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA). The prestigious event took place over the weekend at the Arena Event Centre, GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Senator Omo-Agege, who spent eight years in the Senate delivering remarkable development to Delta Central and other parts of Delta State, emerged as the winner after securing overwhelming votes in an online poll that attracted over 30,000 participants across the nine states of the Niger Delta. The award was organized by JUVENIS Magazine/TV.

The President and Founder of NDAA, Mr. Oxford Okpalefe, detailed the rigorous selection process. “The nominations ran from September 7 to September 30, 2024, with over 30,000 entries received online. After thorough research, stakeholder consultations, and sorting, we compiled a list of nominees from each state in the Niger Delta. The final list was unveiled on October 18, 2024, and voting commenced.”

He added, “The Political Icon of the Year award celebrates a politician who has excelled in their career, significantly impacted the lives of the people, and is widely admired for their achievements at the state or federal level.”

Okpalefe highlighted Senator Omo-Agege’s transformative tenure in the Senate, noting his unprecedented records in human and infrastructural development. “His dedication won the hearts of the Niger Delta people, who voted for him overwhelmingly,” Okpalefe stated.

The category included prominent leaders such as Senate President and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio; former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin O. Kalu; former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki; Senator Seriake Dickson; Senator Adams Oshiomhole; and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, among others.

Receiving the award on behalf of Senator Omo-Agege, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, Publisher of Advocate Newspaper, commended the organizers and the people of the Niger Delta for recognizing Omo-Agege’s contributions to the region and the nation. “This recognition will inspire Senator Omo-Agege to continue his service to our homeland. His tenure has been a journey of impactful and selfless service to humanity. We are proud of him as a Deltan and a Niger Deltan,” Onitsha remarked.

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He further lauded Omo-Agege for his leadership and dedication to development, particularly for his role in bringing legacy projects to Delta State. “The establishment of the Federal Polytechnic, Orogun in Urhobo land, built from scratch in less than three years, stands as one of his signature achievements. Additionally, the establishment of the Federal University of Medical Sciences, Kwale, in Anioma, and the Defence Space School, are testaments to his commitment to education, healthcare, and national security development in the state. His efforts have brought unprecedented development to the Urhobo nation, Anioma, Delta State and beyond,” Onitsha added.

The Niger Delta Advancement Awards continue to celebrate leaders who champion development and progress in the region. Senator Omo-Agege’s recognition underscores his impactful contributions and enduring legacy.