On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was celebrated with the prestigious Award of Excellence in Leadership by the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, during the 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST) held at the PTDF Towers in Abuja. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, the governor was lauded for his visionary leadership and transformative contributions to Delta State’s oil and gas sector, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic framework. This recognition highlights his administration’s strides in fostering sustainable development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship in a region critical to the nation’s energy wealth.
The ICHST, a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss innovations and challenges in the hydrocarbon sector, provided the perfect backdrop for honoring Governor Oborevwori. The PTI, a leading institution in training and research for the oil and gas industry, praised the governor for his forward-thinking policies that have positioned Delta State as a hub for economic progress and innovation. His administration’s alignment with global best practices in resource management and economic diversification was a focal point of the recognition.
In his acceptance speech, delivered by Hon. Erijo, Governor Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude for the honor, describing it as a tribute to the resilience and enterprise of Delta State’s people, whose land and waters have sustained Nigeria’s oil industry for decades. He emphasized that the award, bestowed by an institution of PTI’s stature, was a collective achievement for Deltans. “To be recognized by PTI, the foremost center for human capacity development in the hydrocarbon sector, is a testament to our shared commitment to progress,” he stated. He dedicated the award to the people of Delta State, whose sacrifices continue to drive the state’s development agenda.
The governor’s leadership is anchored in his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security), which has catalyzed significant advancements in Delta State’s oil and gas sector. Key initiatives include the revitalization of dormant industries, promotion of local content development, and partnerships with federal agencies like the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). These efforts have empowered Deltans to actively participate in the oil and gas value chain, fostering job creation and skill development for the youth. Additionally, the administration’s focus on infrastructure upgrades, enhanced security, and stakeholder collaboration has created a stable environment for investment, earning widespread acclaim.
Addressing the conference theme, “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment, and Governance,” Governor Oborevwori highlighted the need to address the paradox of wealth and deprivation in the Niger Delta. He advocated for inclusive growth, environmental justice, and institutional reform, emphasizing that his administration is committed to correcting historical imbalances. “A healthy environment is essential for the survival of both our people and the industry,” he asserted, underscoring his government’s push for environmental remediation and adherence to global standards in oil operations to protect Delta’s fragile ecosystems.
The PTI’s Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Dr. Samuel Onoji, in his welcome address, described the ICHST as a vital platform for shaping Africa’s energy future amid the global energy transition. He commended Governor Oborevwori’s support for the institute, noting the recent donation of operational vehicles by the Delta State Government to enhance PTI’s logistics and field operations. Dr. Onoji also highlighted PTI’s role as a leading center for training, having produced over 55,000 skilled professionals since its inception.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his commitment to deepening collaboration with PTI and regulatory agencies to build a responsible and inclusive hydrocarbon economy. “This recognition strengthens our resolve to ensure that Delta State powers today’s economy while securing a diversified energy future for Nigeria and Africa,” he concluded. Observers noted that this accolade reinforces the governor’s growing national profile as a champion of responsible governance, environmental protection, and inclusive growth. The event concluded with a call for sustained collaboration between government, industry, and academia to drive the sustainable development of Africa’s hydrocarbon sector, with Delta State under Oborevwori’s leadership serving as a model for progress.
