On a vibrant day at the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, the South-South Zone B of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) bestowed a prestigious Award of Excellence upon Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori. The accolade was presented during the Students Leadership Summit and Retreat, a significant gathering of student leaders, stakeholders, and delegates from across the South-South region of Nigeria. The event, themed “University of Purpose: Catalysing Change through Purposeful Leadership,” served as a platform for robust discussions on the transformative power of leadership and the pivotal role of students in shaping the future.
The summit, held at the university’s sprawling campus, brought together a diverse array of participants, including student union leaders, academics, policymakers, and youth advocates. The theme resonated deeply with the attendees, who explored ways to harness purposeful leadership to address pressing challenges in education, governance, and societal development. The event was not only a celebration of student activism but also a call to action for young Nigerians to take up leadership roles with a sense of purpose, integrity, and vision.
A Recognition of Transformative Leadership
The Award of Excellence conferred on Governor Oborevwori was a testament to his outstanding contributions to governance and his unwavering commitment to the development of Delta State, particularly in areas that directly impact the youth and education sectors. The award was received on his behalf by Comr. Okoh Ezekiel Oghenetega, Ph.D., the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs. Dr. Okoh, a respected figure in student advocacy and governance, expressed profound gratitude to the NANS leadership and the entire student community for recognizing the governor’s efforts.
In his remarks, Dr. Okoh emphasized that the award was not merely a ceremonial gesture but a powerful acknowledgment of Governor Oborevwori’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and progressive environment for young people in Delta State. He highlighted the governor’s policies, which have prioritized education, youth empowerment, and socio-economic development, as key reasons for the recognition. “This award is a reflection of His Excellency’s tireless work to ensure that the youth of Delta State are equipped with the tools, opportunities, and platforms to succeed,” Dr. Okoh stated.
The Executive Assistant also commended the leadership of NANS Zone B and the students of DELSU for their unwavering support for the Oborevwori-led administration. He noted that the collaborative relationship between the state government and the student community has been instrumental in driving initiatives that promote academic excellence, skills acquisition, and leadership development. “The students of Delta State have shown that they are not just beneficiaries of governance but active partners in the development process,” he added.
The Significance of the Summit
The NANS Leadership Summit and Retreat was a landmark event, bringing together some of the brightest minds in the South-South region to deliberate on critical issues affecting students and society at large. The theme, “University of Purpose: Catalysing Change through Purposeful Leadership,” was carefully chosen to reflect the need for intentional and impactful leadership in addressing the myriad challenges facing Nigerian students, including inadequate funding for education, unemployment, and limited access to opportunities.
The summit featured a series of panel discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions designed to inspire and equip student leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to effect change in their communities. Speakers at the event included prominent academics, policymakers, and youth advocates who shared insights on leadership, governance, and the role of students in nation-building. The discussions underscored the importance of purposeful leadership, which prioritizes the collective good over personal gain and seeks to address systemic issues through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Participants also explored practical ways to enhance student participation in governance, including advocacy for better educational policies, increased funding for tertiary institutions, and the creation of platforms for youth engagement. The summit provided a space for students to voice their concerns, share their aspirations, and propose solutions to challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and the declining quality of education in some institutions.
Governor Oborevwori’s Commitment to Youth Development
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has made youth development a cornerstone of its agenda, with a focus on creating opportunities for young people to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. Since assuming office, the governor has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering skills development among the youth.
One of the flagship programs of the Oborevwori administration is the MORE Agenda, which stands for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. This agenda has guided the state’s policies and programs, with a particular emphasis on empowering young people through education and economic opportunities. The administration has invested heavily in the education sector, renovating schools, providing scholarships, and improving infrastructure in tertiary institutions across the state.
In addition to these efforts, the governor has prioritized youth inclusion in governance, appointing young, capable individuals to key positions in his administration. Dr. Okoh Ezekiel Oghenetega, who received the award on behalf of the governor, is a prime example of this commitment. As the Executive Assistant on Students’ Affairs, Dr. Okoh has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the state government and the student community, ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and their needs addressed.
The Oborevwori administration has also launched several skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programs aimed at reducing youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance. These initiatives have provided thousands of young Deltans with the training and resources needed to start their own businesses or secure employment in various sectors. By creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, the governor has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges facing young people and a commitment to addressing them.
The Role of NANS in Advocating for Students
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has long been a powerful voice for Nigerian students, advocating for their rights and championing causes that promote their welfare. The South-South Zone B of NANS, which organized the summit, has been particularly active in engaging with state governments and other stakeholders to address issues such as inadequate funding for education, poor infrastructure in schools, and the rising cost of living.
The leadership of NANS Zone B was widely praised for organizing the summit, which provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The event showcased the association’s commitment to fostering leadership among students and empowering them to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities. By honoring Governor Oborevwori with the Award of Excellence, NANS Zone B acknowledged his contributions to education and youth development while also signaling its readiness to partner with the state government on initiatives that benefit students.
A Call to Sustain Progressive Policies
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Okoh emphasized that the Award of Excellence was not only a recognition of past achievements but also a call to action for the Oborevwori administration to continue prioritizing the welfare and advancement of young people. He assured the student community that the governor remains committed to policies that promote inclusivity, education, and youth empowerment.
“The governor sees the youth as the heartbeat of Delta State,” Dr. Okoh said. “This award is an encouragement to do more, to push harder, and to ensure that every young person in Delta State has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.” He reiterated the administration’s commitment to sustaining initiatives that address the needs of students, including improving access to quality education, providing scholarships, and creating job opportunities.
Dr. Okoh also called on the student community to remain active partners in the development process, urging them to continue advocating for policies that promote their welfare and contribute to the growth of the state. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and students, noting that such partnerships are essential for achieving sustainable development.
The Broader Implications of the Award
The conferment of the Award of Excellence on Governor Oborevwori has broader implications for governance in Delta State and beyond. It underscores the importance of recognizing leaders who prioritize the needs of young people and invest in their future. In a country where the youth constitute a significant portion of the population, policies that empower them are critical to national development.
The award also highlights the growing influence of student organizations like NANS in shaping the political and social landscape of Nigeria. By honoring leaders who demonstrate a commitment to education and youth development, NANS is sending a powerful message about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs to address its challenges.
For Governor Oborevwori, the award is a validation of his administration’s efforts to create a more inclusive and prosperous Delta State. It also serves as a reminder of the high expectations placed on him by the student community and the broader populace. As he continues to lead the state, the governor will undoubtedly draw inspiration from this recognition to pursue policies that uplift the youth and drive sustainable development.
The Role of DELSU in Fostering Leadership
Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, played a pivotal role as the host of the NANS Leadership Summit and Retreat. The university, known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community, provided an ideal setting for the event. DELSU’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation among its students was evident in the active participation of its student body in the summit.
The university’s leadership, including its Vice-Chancellor and other administrators, was commended for their support in ensuring the success of the event. DELSU’s role as a hub for intellectual discourse and student activism was further reinforced by the summit, which brought together stakeholders from across the region to discuss critical issues affecting education and youth development.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As the curtains drew to a close on the NANS Leadership Summit and Retreat, the event left an indelible mark on all who attended. For Governor Oborevwori, the Award of Excellence was a moment of pride and a call to continue his transformative work in Delta State. For the student community, the summit was a reminder of their potential to drive change through purposeful leadership.
The Oborevwori administration’s commitment to youth development and education will likely remain a key focus as the governor continues to implement his MORE Agenda. With the support of organizations like NANS and institutions like DELSU, Delta State is well-positioned to become a model for youth empowerment and inclusive governance in Nigeria.
The summit also set the stage for future collaborations between the state government and the student community. By fostering dialogue and partnership, both parties can work together to address the challenges facing young people and create a brighter future for Delta State and the nation at large.
In conclusion, the conferment of the Award of Excellence on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the NANS Leadership Summit was a moment of celebration and reflection. It highlighted the governor’s achievements while underscoring the importance of purposeful leadership in transforming society. As Delta State moves forward under his leadership, the partnership between the government and the student community will be crucial in achieving the shared goal of a prosperous and inclusive future for all.
