Living Legends Series: Hon. Capt. Smart Yomi Asekutu :

Our living legend today is: Hon. Capt. Smart Yomi Asekutu

By  Prince Agbedeyi O. D

Hon. Capt. Smart Yomi Asekutu is a distinguished Nigerian politician and administrator, the immediate past Executive Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area in Delta State. He made history as the first Ijaw indigene to hold this position, a milestone that underscored his commitment to inclusive governance and unity among the diverse ethnic groups in the region .

Early Life and Political Ascent

Capt. Asekutu's political journey gained significant momentum in March 2021 when he emerged as the People's Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for Warri North LGA. His candidacy was met with enthusiasm, particularly among the Ijaw communities, as it marked the first time in 27 years that an Ijaw individual was nominated for this role .

Leadership and Achievements

Since assuming office, Capt. Asekutu has been lauded for his transformative leadership and commitment to development. His administration has executed numerous infrastructural projects, including:

• Renovation of the Local Government Council Lodge.
• The administration of Asekutu build a befitting staff canteen for the first time for the council staff and visitors, 
• He build a fence round the council perimeter for the first time since the inception of the council. This was to ensured security in the council and avoid further encroachment into the councils land. This project was 60 % completed before the end of his tenure 
• Asekutu also kick start the building of a befitting office duplex for the Chairman's office, other senior administrative officers and a hall for the council Christian fellowship. 
• His administration build several health facilities and equipments were provided for the health Centres in the council areas. 
• Despite anxiety, apprehension, fear of the unknown, hate, high hight of unacceptance of his candidature, his tenure turned out to be the most peaceful in the history of Warri North Local Government Area
• Purchase of 140KVA and 500KVA generators for the council secretariat and Tsekelewu community, respectively.
• Construction and completion of a jetty and health center at Ubagboro.
• Provision of potable water in Okogho.
• Procurement of a 200-horsepower speedboat for the local government.
• Installation of street lights in Gbokoda.

These projects have significantly improved the quality of life for residents and have been recognized at both state and federal levels .

Recognition and Awards

Capt. Asekutu's exemplary performance earned him the "Most Performed Chairman in Delta State" award from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. This accolade was presented at the International Conference Center in Abuja, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to local governance .

Commitment to Welfare and Inclusivity

Beyond infrastructural development, Capt. Asekutu has demonstrated a deep commitment to the welfare of his constituents. He initiated a petty traders' loan scheme, providing financial support to small-scale entrepreneurs to boost local commerce . Additionally, during festive seasons, he has provided monetary gifts to local government workers to enhance their well-being .

His inclusive approach to governance has fostered unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Warri North, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

Political Ambitions

In 2022, recognizing his impactful leadership, a group purchased nomination forms for Capt. Asekutu to contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives. Although he did not win the PDP primary, this gesture highlighted the confidence his supporters have in his capabilities.

Capt. Smart Yomi Asekutu continues to serve as a beacon of effective and inclusive leadership, dedicated to the progress and unity of Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State and Nigeria.