In a historic and electrifying display of unity, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State convened a pivotal Stakeholders Meeting on Sunday at the State Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba. The gathering, marked by an overwhelming turnout of party stalwarts, saw the Delta APC pass a unanimous vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, endorsing both as the party’s sole candidates for the 2027 general elections. This landmark decision underscored the party’s resolute commitment to the leadership of Tinubu and Oborevwori, whose transformative governance has set a bold trajectory for Nigeria and Delta State.
The meeting brought together a formidable coalition of APC leaders, including serving and former National and State lawmakers, Commissioners, Local Government Council chairmen, Local Government party chairmen, and political heavyweights representing Delta’s three senatorial districts—Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South. The event was a testament to the party’s growing strength and cohesion, as leaders from diverse political backgrounds united to reaffirm their support for Tinubu and Oborevwori, heralding a new era of political dominance for the APC in Delta State.
A Motion of Confidence and Endorsement
The motion for the vote of confidence and endorsement was moved by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, a prominent figure in Delta politics and a staunch ally of President Tinubu. Keyamo’s address was a compelling blend of policy analysis and political strategy, as he lauded Tinubu’s “bold reforms and transformative leadership” as critical drivers of Nigeria’s economic and infrastructural resurgence. Central to his argument was the removal of the fuel subsidy, a policy he described as a courageous and responsible decision that has redirected billions of naira into critical national infrastructure.
“Just two days ago, Mr. President approved $1 billion for the resuscitation of the Warri port, a project that will transform the economic landscape of Delta State and the South-South region,” Keyamo declared. He also highlighted other flagship projects, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road and the rebuilding of Lagos Airport, as direct outcomes of the savings from subsidy removal. “These are not mere promises but tangible results of a prudent manager and visionary leader,” he added, positioning Tinubu as a leader with a clear roadmap for Nigeria’s future.
Turning his attention to Governor Oborevwori, Keyamo praised his visionary leadership and the unprecedented infrastructural development sweeping across Delta State. From urban renewal projects to rural connectivity initiatives, Oborevwori’s administration has earned widespread acclaim for its focus on transformative governance. “Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated that leadership is about action, not rhetoric. His commitment to Delta State’s development is undeniable,” Keyamo stated. He then moved the motion: “That the Delta APC passes a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and adopts them as the party’s sole candidates for the 2027 general election.”
The motion was seconded by Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, the former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, whose remarks reinforced the party’s commitment to inclusive governance and development. Ochei hailed Tinubu and Oborevwori for their ability to unite diverse stakeholders and deliver measurable progress. “The people of Delta State and the South-South stand firmly behind President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for their vision of a renewed Nigeria and Delta State,” he said. The motion was unanimously adopted, with the hall erupting in applause, signaling the party’s unified resolve.
Oborevwori’s Gratitude and Vision for 2027
In his address, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude to the APC stakeholders for their unwavering support and confidence in his leadership and that of President Tinubu. He pledged to continue delivering on his administration’s development agenda, which he described as a blueprint for sustainable progress in Delta State. “I want to thank you for the confidence reposed in us and for accepting us as sole candidates for 2027. The APC is growing stronger by the day, and I can confidently say that more governors will join our ranks before the end of November,” Oborevwori announced, hinting at potential political realignments that could further bolster the party’s influence.
Oborevwori took a moment to commend President Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as “a man who rewards loyalty, commitment, and results.” He emphasized the importance of electoral success as a measure of loyalty, drawing on his own record in the previous election, where he secured victory in 21 out of 25 local government areas in Delta State. “In 2027, our votes will be our report card. Those who claim to love the President must show it through the ballot. That’s what real commitment means,” he asserted, rallying the party faithful to translate their support into electoral victories.
The Governor also issued a stern warning against disloyalty within the party, revealing that some members who did not work for the APC in past elections had nonetheless benefited from its success. “Some in power today didn’t work for the APC, but we know them. When the time comes, we will expose them. This time, loyalty will be rewarded, not hypocrisy,” he declared, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on internal sabotage. He urged party leaders to prioritize unity and collective decision-making, emphasizing that personal ambitions must take a backseat to the party’s overarching goals.
Infrastructural Achievements and Fiscal Responsibility
A significant portion of Oborevwori’s address focused on his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, which he presented as evidence of his commitment to good governance. He highlighted several ongoing and planned projects, including the ₦59 billion Uromi Junction flyover, the ₦39 billion Ughelli Flyover, and the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for the rehabilitation of the Warri/Sapele Road. These projects, he noted, are part of a broader effort to transform Delta State into a hub of economic activity and connectivity.
“Delta State is the only state where contractors are not owed. We pay 40% mobilization upfront because we are managing resources efficiently, and the President’s reforms are yielding results,” Oborevwori said, underscoring his administration’s fiscal prudence. He attributed these successes to the synergy between his government and the federal administration, particularly the economic reforms spearheaded by Tinubu. The Governor’s remarks resonated with the audience, who saw his achievements as a testament to the APC’s commitment to delivering tangible results.
Okowa’s Reflections on a Political Turning Point
Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, delivered a reflective and optimistic address, describing the mass defection to the APC on April 28, 2025, as a “turning point in the state’s political history.” Okowa, who played a pivotal role in the defection, expressed delight at the unity and strength of the APC in Delta State. “Today, I can confidently say that joining the APC was the right step in the right direction. The party is now stronger, more united, and better positioned for victory in 2027,” he said.
Okowa praised President Tinubu’s economic decisions as “bold and necessary,” urging party leaders to educate their constituents on the long-term benefits of these reforms. He acknowledged that while some policies, such as the fuel subsidy removal, have caused short-term challenges, they are essential for Nigeria’s economic sustainability. “We must tell our people the truth: these reforms are laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Turning to Governor Oborevwori, Okowa commended his humility and inclusive leadership, which he said have been instrumental in uniting the APC across Delta’s three senatorial districts. “Governor Oborevwori has shown that leadership is about bringing people together and delivering results. His approach has strengthened the APC and inspired confidence among our members,” Okowa noted, eliciting nods of agreement from the audience.
Party Leadership’s Call for Unity and Victory
The APC State Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, set the tone for the meeting with a rousing welcome address that celebrated the party’s growing influence under Oborevwori’s leadership. “Governor Oborevwori’s performance has made the APC formidable and unstoppable,” Sobotie declared, warning that any attempt to challenge the Governor in 2027 would be met with a “brick wall.” His remarks underscored the party’s confidence in Oborevwori’s ability to lead the APC to a resounding victory.
Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Chairman of APC Delta Central, described the April 28 defection as a defining moment when “vision met action.” He pledged total unity and focus on securing victory in 2027, emphasizing that the APC in Delta Central was fully aligned with the party’s goals. Similar sentiments were echoed by Chief Adizue Eluaka from Delta North and Austin Oribioye from Delta South, who both highlighted the party’s unprecedented unity and readiness to dominate all elections.
National Assembly and Local Government Commitment
Representatives from the National Assembly, including Senators Ede Dafinone, Ned Nwoko, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, and Hon. Nicholas Mutu, delivered a powerful message of support for Tinubu and Oborevwori. “There is no vacancy till 2031,” they declared, vowing to continue working in the interest of their constituents and the APC. Their commitment to the party’s agenda was a clear signal of the APC’s dominance at both the federal and state levels.
The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) representative, Hon. Dagidi Andaye, assured that all council chairmen were fully committed to the APC’s victory in 2027. Andaye, who also serves as the Bomadi Council Chairman, emphasized the grassroots support for Oborevwori and Tinubu, noting that local government leaders would mobilize their communities to deliver overwhelming votes.
A Call for Women’s Inclusion
Former National Women Leader, Hon. Stella Okotete, made a compelling case for greater inclusion of women in the party’s structure, highlighting their significant electoral influence. “Women account for over 51 percent of the voting population. Their voices and contributions must be at the forefront of our strategy,” she said. Okotete’s call was met with enthusiastic support, as stakeholders recognized the critical role of women in securing electoral victories.
Legislative Support and Grassroots Mobilization
The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, pledged the full support of all Assembly members for Tinubu and Oborevwori. He assured the stakeholders that the Assembly would continue to deliver democratic dividends, aligning its legislative agenda with the Governor’s development priorities. “We are fully committed to the success of our Governor and our President,” Guwor said, reinforcing the synergy between the executive and legislative arms of government.
Mr. Nobert Akachukwu, representing the Forum of LGA Party Chairmen, lauded Oborevwori’s leadership for renewing and re-energizing the APC in Delta State. “The party has been transformed under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. We are ready to deliver on the MORE Agenda,” he said, referring to the Governor’s vision for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
A Unified Vision for 2027
Prominent APC leaders, including Olorogun O’tega Emerhor (Delta Central), Senator Peter Nwaoboshi (Delta North), and Senator James Manager (Delta South), jointly affirmed that there was “no opposition” to Governor Oborevwori in 2027. They pledged to deliver massive votes for both the Governor and President Tinubu, signaling a united front that transcends regional and factional divides. Their commitment was a powerful endorsement of the APC’s dominance in Delta State and its ambition to secure a landslide victory in the upcoming elections.
A Celebration of Solidarity and Confidence
As the meeting drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of celebration, solidarity, and renewed confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori. The stakeholders’ unanimous vote of confidence and endorsement of both leaders as sole candidates for 2027 was a clear indication of the APC’s growing strength in Delta State. The event was marked by a palpable sense of optimism, as party leaders and members alike expressed their belief in the transformative potential of Tinubu’s reforms and Oborevwori’s development agenda.
The meeting also served as a platform to showcase the APC’s unity and organizational prowess. From the grassroots to the national level, the party demonstrated its ability to mobilize a diverse coalition of leaders and supporters, all united by a shared vision for a prosperous Nigeria and Delta State. The endorsement of Tinubu and Oborevwori was not just a political statement but a declaration of intent—a commitment to building on the successes of the past and charting a bold path forward.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead to 2027, the Delta APC is poised to leverage its newfound unity and momentum to dominate the political landscape. The party’s leaders are acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead, including the need to sustain public support amidst economic reforms and counter opposition narratives. However, the confidence expressed at the Stakeholders Meeting suggests that the APC is well-prepared to meet these challenges head-on.
For President Tinubu, the endorsement from Delta State is a significant boost to his national campaign, reinforcing his position as a leader capable of uniting Nigeria’s diverse regions. The $1 billion investment in the Warri port, coupled with other national projects, underscores his commitment to equitable development, particularly in the South-South region. These initiatives are expected to resonate with voters, who are increasingly looking for leaders who can deliver tangible results.
For Governor Oborevwori, the endorsement is a validation of his leadership and a mandate to continue his transformative agenda in Delta State. His focus on infrastructure, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive governance has earned him widespread support, positioning him as a formidable candidate for re-election in 2027. The Governor’s emphasis on loyalty and unity within the APC also signals a strategic approach to party management, ensuring that the party remains disciplined and focused as it prepares for the elections.
Conclusion
The APC Stakeholders Meeting in Asaba was a defining moment for the party in Delta State. The unanimous vote of confidence in President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, coupled with their endorsement as sole candidates for 2027, has set the stage for a unified and aggressive campaign. With a clear focus on development, loyalty, and electoral success, the Delta APC is poised to dominate the political landscape, delivering overwhelming victories for its candidates and reinforcing its position as a leading force in Nigerian politics.
As the party looks to the future, it carries with it a sense of purpose and determination. The synergy between Tinubu’s national vision and Oborevwori’s state-level achievements has created a powerful narrative of progress and possibility. For the people of Delta State and Nigeria, the APC’s commitment to transformative governance offers hope for a brighter future, where infrastructure, economic opportunities, and good governance are the cornerstones of development.
