DOPF Mourns Uduaghan, Recalls His 2021 Lecture On Niger Delta Economy

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has mourned the death of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, recalling his contribution to its Annual Lecture Series.

In a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, and jointly signed by its Chairman, Emmanuel Enebeli, and Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha, DOPF described Uduaghan’s death as a loss to Delta State and the Niger Delta.

The Forum identified Uduaghan’s appearance at its 3rd Annual Lecture in October 2021 as a notable moment in its institutional history, where he delivered a lecture themed “Niger Delta Economy: Building a New Face for the Region.”

The lecture focused on the need to diversify the Niger Delta economy beyond crude oil and strengthen foundations for sustainable development through industrialisation, infrastructure, human capital development and creating a favourable environment for investors.

DOPF said his participation reflected the value of bringing experienced public officeholders into discussions about the region’s economic challenges and development prospects.

The Forum noted that such conversations remain important to the Niger Delta, where questions of economic diversification, employment, infrastructure and effective use of natural resources continue to shape public debate.

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It reaffirmed the role of professional journalism in encouraging informed discussion, holding institutions accountable and giving public-interest issues sustained attention.

Uduaghan served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007 and Governor from 2007 to 2015. He died on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the age of 71.

DOPF extended condolences to his wife, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, his children, the Uduaghan family, political associates and the people of Delta State, particularly the Itsekiri Nation.