Revitalizing Delta State’s Entertainment Industry: An Open Letter to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori____ Chief Barrister Smooth
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Chief Barrister Smooth
The Paddle of Niger Delta
07-09-2025
His Excellency,
Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori
Executive Governor of Delta State
Government House
Asaba, Delta State.
Your Excellency,
PETITION/APPEAL FOR THE REVITALIZATION AND STRUCTURING OF THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY IN DELTA STATE
With utmost respect and humility, I write to You Your Excellency as a veteran who has devoted four decades to the growth, peace, and unity of Delta State through the platform of entertainment. I wish to draw your kind attention to certain issues that require urgent consideration for the sustainable development of the entertainment industry in our beloved state.
Recently, a respected colleague and fellow veteran, Baba Kome, raised concerns regarding the roles and effectiveness of the current Special Assistants on Entertainment appointed by You, Your Excellency. His observations reflect the realities many of us in the industry have long noted.
Over the years, I have tirelessly contributed my personal resources and energy towards advancing entertainment, even supporting the party during elections without any expectations. In 2023, during a tragic period when I lost members of my crew in an accident, Your Excellency, You demonstrated kindness by sending ₦2 million through one of your aides. I remain deeply grateful for this gesture. However, beyond individual support, the broader issue of institutionalizing entertainment as a business that fosters unity, employment, and development still remains largely unaddressed.
Your Excellency, entertainment is not merely about political shows or events; it is a multi-billion-naira industry with the capacity to reduce youth restiveness, create jobs, promote tourism, and enhance the state’s economy. Many of the young appointees serving as Special Assistants are energetic and ambitious, yet they lack the necessary mentorship and guidance from veterans who possess decades of experience in the sector.
In view of the above, I respectfully propose the establishment of a 10-man Entertainment Veterans Advisory Committee that will work alongside your Special Assistants. This committee will provide guidance, structure, and long-term strategies to ensure that entertainment in Delta State evolves into a globally competitive industry.
Furthermore, I humbly appeal that veterans in the industry, who have consistently carried the torch of Delta’s entertainment heritage, be given recognition and inclusion in the decision-making process. Neglecting the contributions of those who paved the way risks weakening the very foundation on which the next generation of entertainers must stand.
Your Excellency, I am confident that with your visionary leadership, Delta State can become the true entertainment hub of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
May God continue to bless and guide you as you serve our people with dedication and wisdom.
Respectfully yours,
Chief Barrister Smooth
The Paddle of the Niger Delta
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