A prominent Urhobo leader and Vice Chairman, Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Europe Leaders Forum, Chief Richard Tiki Iyede, Ph.D., has praised the member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency, Hon. (Rev.) Francis Ejiroghene Waive, for his quality representation at the House of Representatives.
Dr. Iyede, however, called on Waive to contest the 2027 general elections to continue his effective and quality representation of the people of Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu at the Green Chamber.
In a statement on Monday, Iyede listed several life-changing projects which Waive has attract to his constituency including the the recently signed Federal Medical Centre, Udu, and the Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Otu-Jeremi.
He noted that Waive’s projects are evenly spread across the three local government areas of Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu, adding that his quality leadership has brought hope to the people of the constituency.
Iyede, who also the vice chairman of Urhobo Consultative Forum, noted that Waive’s selfless service, dedication to community development, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people are truly commendable, and urged him to redouble his efforts.
“Hon. (Rev.) Francis Ejiroghene Waive has set a remarkable standard of leadership, bringing real and tangible development to the people of Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu LGAs. His tenure has been characterised by equitable distribution of the dividends of democracy, touching lives through education, infrastructure, security, human empowerment, and healthcare.
“His achievements speak volumes: the construction and renovation of schools, the provision of solar streetlights to enhance security, the empowerment of countless individuals with tools for economic sustainability, and the establishment of key federal institutions that will serve our communities for years to come. These are not just projects—they are lasting legacies of impactful governance.
“At this crucial time, we, the people, strongly appeal to Hon. Waive to consider running again. His unparalleled commitment, proven leadership, and dedication to service have made a profound difference in the lives of many. There is still much work to be done, and we believe that his experience, integrity, and vision will continue to drive progress in our constituency.
“We need a leader who understands the needs of the people, who is accessible, responsive, and committed to fairness, and who has demonstrated the ability to deliver on promises. Hon. Waive has shown time and again that he is that leader.
“We urge him to heed the call of the people and step forward once again to continue this great work. His leadership is not just wanted—it is needed for the continued development and advancement of our communities.
“Hon. Waive, your work is not yet done. We stand with you, and we appeal to you to run again for the benefit of all!”, Chief Iyede, Chairman, Board of Trustee UPU Ireland, added.
Speaking on some of Waive’s achievements, the Urhobo leader listed some of the projects the lawmaker has attracted to the constituency to include; a block of three classrooms at Owhodokpokpor Grammar School, Owhodokpokpor Olomu, Ughelli South LGA; a block of three classrooms at Oghara Grammar School, Oghara Agbarha, Ughelli North LGA; a block of three classrooms at Uwherun, Ughelli North LGA; a block of three classrooms at Oviri Secondary School, Oviri Ogor, Ughelli North LGA, and Complete renovation and furnishing of 18 classrooms, Principals’ and Vice Principals’ quarters, perimeter fencing, 10 toilets, and a solar-powered borehole at Aladja Grammar School, Aladja, Udu LGA
“Beyond education, Hon. Waive has demonstrated exceptional leadership in enhancing security and infrastructure. One of his most impactful projects is the provision of solar street lights to over 200 churches across Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu LGAs. This initiative has greatly improved security, ensuring safety for worshippers and residents, especially at night.
“Furthermore, his dedication to empowering individuals and businesses is evident through his distribution of countless laptops, sewing machines, refrigerators, and generators to support entrepreneurship and self-reliance among his constituents. These efforts have provided many families with the means to earn a livelihood, fostering economic independence and sustainability.
“In legislative matters, Hon. Waive has proven to be a champion of progress, tirelessly promoting bills that address the needs of his people. His recent successes include the establishment of:
“Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian, a significant healthcare facility that will bring essential medical services closer to the people. Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Otu-Jeremi, a strategic institution aimed at enhancing medical education and producing competent healthcare professionals
“These landmark institutions will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in our region, ensuring that our people have access to quality medical services and professional training”, Dr. Iyede further asserted.
