In a momentous recognition of exemplary public service, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been bestowed the Outstanding Leadership Award for Excellence in Governance by the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF). This accolade celebrates his profound humility, forward-thinking vision, and the remarkable transformations he has spearheaded across Delta State, setting a benchmark for progressive leadership in Nigeria's subnational governance landscape.
The award presentation took place on Thursday during the PGF Quarterly Strategy Meeting of Secretaries to the Governments (SGSs) of APC-Governed States. The event was hosted at the elegant Unity Hall within the Government House in Asaba, the bustling capital of Delta State. Themed “Strengthening Subnational Governance Synergy for Effective Policy Coordination in APC-Governed States,” the gathering served as a pivotal platform for high-level deliberations. It convened Secretaries to the State Governments (SSGs) from various APC-controlled states, alongside other senior state officials, to forge strategies aimed at enhancing administrative synergy, fostering governance reforms, and promoting collaborative federalism nationwide.
Governor Oborevwori, unable to attend in person, was ably represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, who received the award on his behalf. The presentation was made by Mr. Folorunsho Aluko, the Director-General of the PGF, who lauded the governor as “a beacon of humility, progress, and excellence in governance.” Aluko's commendation highlighted Oborevwori's unique approach to redefining public service through unwavering accessibility, deep empathy, and disciplined stewardship of resources.
In his eloquent remarks, Aluko elaborated: “Your administration’s commitment to infrastructural renewal, youth inclusion, and transparent governance has set a new standard of progress and purpose in public office. Beyond the projects that dot Delta’s landscape, what stands out is your humility of heart, accessibility, and genuine passion for the people.” He emphasized that Oborevwori's leadership transcends mere infrastructure; it embodies a heartfelt dedication to the welfare of Delta's citizens, making governance more inclusive and responsive.
The PGF Director-General further contextualized the Asaba meeting as a symbol of “the renewed energy of cooperative federalism.” He portrayed the participating SGSs not just as routine administrators but as “architects of coherence and custodians of purpose” in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government. Aluko stressed that the tribute to Governor Oborevwori was multifaceted—it acknowledged individual brilliance while issuing a broader call to collective advancement. “History rarely rewards those who merely occupy offices; it celebrates those who build systems that outlive them,” he poignantly noted, underscoring the enduring legacy of visionary leaders like Oborevwori.
Responding to the honor, Governor Oborevwori, through his deputy Sir Monday Onyeme, conveyed profound gratitude to the PGF and its SGSs. He described the award as a powerful motivator to intensify efforts in delivering exemplary governance to Delta State's populace. “We are delighted to host this important convergence that drives the engine of governance and strengthens service delivery,” Onyeme relayed on behalf of the governor. He drew parallels between Delta's MORE Agenda—encompassing Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—and the federal Renewed Hope Agenda, affirming their seamless alignment.
To illustrate the tangible impacts of the MORE Agenda, the governor highlighted several flagship projects. These include the comprehensive reconstruction of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Dual Carriageway, a critical artery for economic vitality in the region. Additionally, ongoing flyover constructions at Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli and Uromi Junction in Agbor were cited as game-changers designed to alleviate traffic bottlenecks, boost commerce, and spur overall economic growth. These initiatives, according to Oborevwori, are not isolated endeavors but part of a holistic strategy to foster sustainable development, empower the youth, and ensure peace and security across the state.
The host Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, delivered a warm welcome address that underscored the benefits of Delta's active participation in the PGF framework. He noted that this engagement has significantly deepened intergovernmental collaboration and created expansive learning opportunities among state leaders. “Our MORE Agenda aligns seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda, and this partnership continues to yield transformative outcomes,” Dr. Emu asserted, praising the forum for its role in bridging subnational divides and promoting best practices in administration.
Adding to the chorus of appreciation, the Chairperson of the Forum and Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade, extolled the Delta State Government for its exemplary hospitality and meticulous organizational support. She declared the Asaba edition of the meeting as one of the most productive sessions in the forum's history, attributing its success to the conducive environment and proactive hosting.
The broader discussions at the Asaba conclave reflected a unified commitment among APC-governed states to fortify subnational governance structures. Key focus areas included the digitization of administrative processes to enhance efficiency and transparency, the institutionalization of performance-based management frameworks to ensure accountability, and the cultivation of stronger systemic synergies. Participants deliberated on mechanisms to streamline policy coordination, share innovative solutions to common challenges, and align state-level initiatives with national priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
This award to Governor Oborevwori comes at a time when Delta State is witnessing unprecedented strides in multiple sectors. Under his stewardship, the state has prioritized human capital development, with increased investments in education, healthcare, and skills acquisition programs for the youth. Infrastructural renaissance is evident in the proliferation of road networks, bridges, and urban renewal projects that are reshaping the state's skyline and improving quality of life. Moreover, Oborevwori's emphasis on transparency has bolstered public trust, with regular stakeholder engagements and open governance portals ensuring citizen participation.
The PGF, as a body of progressive governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC), plays a crucial role in harmonizing efforts across states to support the federal government's vision. By honoring leaders like Oborevwori, who hails from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yet demonstrates cross-partisan excellence, the forum exemplifies the spirit of cooperative federalism that transcends political affiliations. This gesture reinforces the idea that effective governance is a shared national imperative, not confined to party lines.
In the context of Nigeria's evolving federal structure, events like the Asaba meeting are indispensable. They provide a forum for peer review, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and prosperous nation. Governor Oborevwori's recognition serves as an inspiration to other subnational leaders, encouraging them to prioritize humility, innovation, and people-centered policies.
As Delta State continues to advance under the MORE Agenda, this award validates the governor's approach and motivates further excellence. It also highlights the potential of inter-state collaborations in addressing Nigeria's developmental challenges, from economic diversification to security enhancement. The PGF's initiative in hosting such quarterly strategy sessions underscores a proactive stance toward building resilient governance architectures that can withstand future tests.
In conclusion, the conferment of the Outstanding Leadership Award on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is a testament to his indelible mark on Delta State's progress. It celebrates not just personal achievements but the broader ethos of service-oriented leadership that Nigeria desperately needs. With ongoing projects and aligned agendas, Delta State is poised for even greater heights, inspiring a ripple effect across the federation.
