Hon. Ogedegbe Emerges Best Local Government Chairman In Nigeria For 2025
By Genesis ogiri
In a night defined by dignity, history, and an unmistakable celebration of leadership that truly serves, Hon. Chief Augustine Ogedegbe JP, Executive Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, ascended the national stage in grand distinction — officially crowned Best Local Government Chairman in Nigeria at the 24th Nigerian Local Government Merit Award (LOGMA) 2025, held at the illustrious National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja.
The moment his name was pronounced, the hall did not merely applaud — it erupted. The ovation was not political — it was earned respect, fueled by proof, by impact, and by a visible transformation story that has placed Ethiope East among the most talked-about LGA success models in the nation.
Speaking to journalists moments after the award presentation, Hon. Augustine Ogedegbe expressed deep gratitude to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, for entrusting him with the privilege to serve, emphasizing that the honour is a testament to the Governor’s people-first leadership model.
“This award is ultimately a reflection of the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence he has placed in me and for providing the enabling environment for grassroots development to thrive in Delta State,” Hon. Ogedegbe stated.
He assured newsmen that this recognition would further strengthen his resolve to deepen infrastructure delivery, youth and women empowerment, agricultural expansion, healthcare access, and local security intelligence collaborations.
“We are rededicating ourselves to the vision of His Excellency — to ensure that governance is felt at the base. As long as the people remain our focus, development will not slow down under my watch,” he reaffirmed.
Hon. Ogedegbe dedicated the award to the resilient and hardworking people of Ethiope East, describing them as the true beneficiaries and inspiration of every milestone achieved.
With the calm of a statesman and the heart of a servant-leader, Hon. Ogedegbe stepped forward and, in words weighted with sincerity, declared:
“I am deeply honored to receive the 24th Nigerian Local Government Merit Award (LOGMA) as Best Local Government Chairman for 2025. This recognition, presented at the National Merits Award House in Abuja, is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the collective progress we’ve made in Ethiope East.
He did not stand alone in the spotlight — he amplified others.
With rare grace, he extended warm congratulations to Hon. Osilonya Vicent Onyekweli of Ndokwa East and Hon. Chief Abeke Bright Afure of Sapele — evidence of a leader who values partnership over competition, and legacy over ego.
Independent analysts agree — this was not a political award, it was a performance honor.
Evidence from across Ethiope East tells a consistent story — of a chairman who does not govern from office chair, but from impact on ground.
Thought leaders at the ceremony were unanimous — this Ethiope East success is also a reflection of the enabling leadership of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, whose MORE Agenda has created a governance climate where competence, not proximity, determines performance.
Oborevwori is credited with giving LGA leaders full administrative freedom, fiscal confidence and political breathing space allowing great chairmen like Hon. Ogedegbe to rise on nothing but execution and results.
This recognition does not end with applause — it sets a new standard.
It magnifies a truth Nigerians have long prayed for — that power can be used to build, not to be feared.
Hon. Chief Augustine Ogedegbe JP did not just win an award.
He became a symbol.
A symbol of what local government leadership can look like when integrity meets competence — and service is treated as a mission, not a career.