The Nigerian Senate has paid tribute to former Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, recognising his contributions to peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, healthcare development and regional economic cooperation.
Uduaghan, who served as Delta State governor between 2007 and 2015, died on Monday, October 19, 2026, just three days before his 72nd birthday.
During Wednesday’s plenary in Abuja, lawmakers remembered him as a medical doctor, public servant and political leader whose influence extended beyond Delta State.
Senate Honours Uduaghan’s Legacy
The tribute followed a motion introduced by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South, and supported by Senators Ned Nwoko, Ede Dafinone and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Presenting the motion, Thomas described Uduaghan’s death as a major loss to Delta State and Nigeria.
He highlighted the former governor’s work in healthcare, education, infrastructure and public administration, noting that his years in government helped shape development policies in the state.
Born on October 22, 1954, in Abigborodo, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, Uduaghan studied medicine at the University of Benin, where he obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree.
Before becoming governor, he served as Delta State Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003 and Secretary to the State Government from 2003 to 2007.
He subsequently governed the oil-producing state for eight years, completing two terms in office in 2015.
Akpabio Recalls Uduaghan’s Role in Niger Delta Amnesty
Senate President Godswill Akpabio recalled working with Uduaghan and other governors in the South-South region to address insecurity and promote economic development.
Akpabio particularly highlighted their involvement in efforts that supported the Presidential Amnesty Programme introduced under the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
The programme, launched in 2009, was designed to encourage militants in the Niger Delta to surrender their weapons and participate in rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives.
According to Akpabio, the intervention helped reduce militant activities and created more favourable conditions for investment and business operations across the region.
He also praised Uduaghan’s support for economic diversification, noting that the former governor believed the Niger Delta should develop opportunities beyond crude oil production.
Lawmakers Recall Regional Economic Cooperation
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, remembered Uduaghan’s involvement in the establishment of the BRACED Commission.
The initiative brought together Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta states to strengthen economic cooperation and pursue shared development priorities.
Oshiomhole said Uduaghan recognised the importance of harnessing the region’s natural resources, workforce and economic potential through collaboration.
He described the former governor’s contribution to regional development as an example of leadership that extended beyond state boundaries.
Senators Pay Personal Tributes to Former Governor
Senator Ede Dafinone of Delta Central praised Uduaghan’s humility and commitment to public service.
He said the former governor’s years in office left a lasting impression on many residents of Delta State.
Senator Francis Faduyile, representing Ondo South, reflected on Uduaghan’s background as a medical practitioner.
Faduyile described him as an influential figure in the medical profession who contributed to healthcare institutions and discussions on improving health services.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central also delivered an emotional tribute, describing the former governor, who was her in-law, as a compassionate and patient man.
She recalled his willingness to offer guidance and support to relatives and others who sought his advice.
According to her, his death represents a painful loss not only to the family but also to people who benefited from his experience and counsel.
Senate Observes Minute of Silence
Following the tributes, the Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the former Delta State governor.
Lawmakers extended condolences to his family, the Itsekiri nation, the Delta State Government and residents of the state.
The upper legislative chamber also urged the Delta State Government to preserve important records of projects, policies and development programmes carried out during Uduaghan’s administration.
The Senate said documenting those achievements would help protect the state’s institutional history and provide useful references for future administrations.
Uduaghan’s death marks the passing of a prominent South-South political figure whose career spanned healthcare administration, state governance and regional peace initiatives.
