Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, the member representing the Delta South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has unveiled a series of proposed developmental and empowerment projects for execution in the year 2026.

The projects were disclosed by the lawmaker during his official declaration to run for a second term in office at the Oleh Township Stadium in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, on Friday, May 1, 2026.

According to Senator Joel-Onowakpo, who is Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content, revealed that the initiatives are to provide direct economic support, skills development and agricultural enhancement, as well as to empower youths, women, and farmers with the tools and resources necessary for self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.

"I assure you of my relentless efforts to ensure that Delta State receives its fair share and due recognition from the federal government, addressing longstanding issues of infrastructure, environmental justice and inclusive development," the lawmaker said in his remarks.

"In the days ahead, a robust array of empowerment programmes will be rolled out for our constituents, alongside the execution of transformative projects across every corner of the senatorial district. Rest assured, every ethnic group and local government will be fully carried along, leaving no one behind," he added.

The lawmaker further stressed that the proposed projects are a reflection of his continued focus on practical, people-centered development that addresses the core needs of the senatorial district.

The proposed developmental projects, which are more than 40 in numbers, cut across construction of internal roads, lecture auditorium, civic centers, renovation and equipping of laboratory, and solar street lights installation; while empowerment projects include capacity building and the provisions of equipment and tools to agro and fish farmers, traders, and students alike.

The lawmaker who also presented his score card as a representative of the district for 2 years and 10 months, listed his previous achievements of more than 70 projects focused on economic empowerment, infrastructural development, education and skills development, healthcare and community welfare, and agricultural development, among other empowerment initiatives that were spread across the district.

While declaring his interest to run for a second term in office, he said, "As the 2027 election cycle approaches, continuity in representation is essential to sustain this upward trajectory, consolidate the gains already made, and ensure that the numerous projects budgeted for 2025 are fully executed for the benefit of Delta South, while those proposed for 2026 are fully appropriated, funded, and executed.

"The people of Delta South stand to benefit immensely from this sustained leadership, which continues to place their developmental aspirations and empowerment at the center of national budgetary priorities," the statement reads.

The ceremony was attended by leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) party led by the Delta State Vice Chairman and Chairman, Delta South Senatorial District, APC, Chief Emman Amgbaduba; and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor among other political office holders.

Also in attendance from Delta South were all State Working Committee members, all State Executive Committee members, all Local Government Area chairmen and members of their executive committees, as well as all ward chairmen and members of their executive committees in the eight LGAs.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo, who succeeded Senator James Manager (2003-2023), was first elected in the 2023 general elections on the platform of the APC to represent Delta South Senatorial district in the 10th National Assembly.

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