The recent agitation by some youths of Okpanam regarding the proper identification of the multi-billion-naira Cubana Millennium City project calls for calm reflection and strategic thinking rather than emotional reaction.
There is no dispute that Cubana Millennium City is physically located in Okpanam, within Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. That geographical fact remains unchanged, regardless of how the project is referenced in wider communication.
However, in branding, investment communication, and place marketing, locations are often referenced by the most recognisable metropolitan identity to enhance visibility, market appeal, and investor confidence.
No doubt, Okpanam lies within the Delta State Capital Territory. Referencing the project as being in Asaba does not erase Okpanam’s ownership, heritage, or identity. Rather, it situates the development within a broader urban brand that already enjoys strong national and international recognition.
Globally, this is a standard strategy known in public relations as city branding or presence marketing – the deliberate positioning of a location in the minds of investors, tourists, and stakeholders.
It is about creating mental real estate that attracts opportunity and accelerates development. Instead of framing the issue as a naming dispute, this moment presents an opportunity for strategic collaboration.
Okpanam stakeholders can leverage the visibility of Asaba while simultaneously promoting Okpanam as a peaceful, progressive, and investment-friendly community. Both identities can coexist harmoniously. Indeed, it can proudly be referenced as: “Cubana Millennium City, Asaba–Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA, Delta State, Nigeria.” Development thrives in an atmosphere of unity, not contention.
The real priority should be maximising the economic, social, and infrastructural benefits that such a landmark investment brings to Okpanam, the Capital Territory, and Delta State at large.
Let us support our brother and friend, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), whose entrepreneurial expansion into large-scale urban development represents confidence in our state, Delta State, Nigeria.
Encouraging investment and projecting our communities as welcoming destinations will yield far greater dividends than internal disagreements.
Strategic positioning is not about diminishing identity; it is about amplifying opportunity.
So let’s understanding and civility prevail in our conducts.
Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr, fciism
Chairman,
Delta State Chapter
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)