It was a display of unity on Thursday as different cultural groups in Delta State thrilled an excited audience as the state celebrates 25 years of existence with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa saying, despite the economic situation of the country, the state is on a progressive path.

The cultural parade which took place in Asaba was part of events lined up to celebrate 25 years anniversary of the creation of Delta State.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Okowa, who wore a traditional attire befitting the occasion, disclosed that the events for the anniversary, which will climax today, with an economic and investment summit, were wholly sponsored by the private sector.

“At 25 years, there is reason to celebrate Delta State, one thing that I know is that Delta is a land of peace, a land where love flows; though, tongue may differ, we are united and with what I have seen this afternoon, I am convinced that I am leading a set of people with strong will to succeed, we are on a progressive path,” the governor said, observing, “there is hunger out there but there is hope for tomorrow, be prayerful – pray for our state and our country, we need to embrace peace and ensure that peace is sustained, we need to return to the good old days when Delta was the greatest producer of oil and gas in the country."

He added, “I want to thank the organisers and sponsors of this celebration, collectively, they have been able to sponsor the entire programme, we are very grateful.”

Thrilled by the display of culture at the occasion, which was attended by traditional rulers, leaders of thought, including former Military Administrator of the state, Air Commodore Luke Ochulor (rtd), Governor Okowa said, he hopes the state would organize a cultural extravaganza that will last for three days which will attract people from different parts of the world at a later date.

"The unity that I saw here today is more than enough to make us a great state," the governor reiterated, disclosing that as part of efforts to diversify the economy of the state, his administration was encouraging Deltans through empowerment programmes to return to agriculture.

He said, "it is time for us to return to the agricultural sector, we will stimulate our people to have better farms, we will continue to consistently support our farmers through Farmers Support Programme, Youth Agricultural Entrepreneur Programme and others to enable them succeed.

Those who spoke at the occasion, including the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barr, Ernest Ogwezzy, the Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah, traditional rulers, politicians, among others commended Governor Okowa for his commitment to a peaceful and progressive Delta State.

The occasion featured cultural parade along major streets of Asaba which culminated in display of different dances and cultural displays at the cenotaph.

•Photo shows Governor Okowa.

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