In a glittering ceremony that underscored the vital role of media in governance and development, Sir Festus Ahon, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has been conferred with a highly coveted special recognition award as a "Friend of the Press." The accolade was bestowed upon him by Inside-Out Limited, the esteemed operators of Trend 100.9FM, a leading radio station in the region known for its incisive journalism and community-focused programming.
This prestigious honor serves as a testament to Sir Ahon's steadfast commitment to advancing the M.O.R.E. agenda of Governor Oborevwori—an ambitious blueprint standing for Meaningful Opportunities, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Empowerment. The award highlights Ahon's pivotal role in amplifying the governor's vision, which prioritizes sustainable growth, human capital investment, and robust infrastructural advancements across Delta State. By consistently bridging the gap between government initiatives and the public, Ahon has played an instrumental part in ensuring that the administration's achievements resonate with citizens, fostering transparency and accountability in the process.
The award presentation took place amid the vibrant festivities marking the 10th-anniversary celebration of Trend 100.9FM. The event, held in the bustling capital city of Asaba on Sunday, was a colorful affair attended by dignitaries, media practitioners, government officials, and enthusiastic listeners. The station's milestone decade in broadcasting was celebrated with pomp, featuring speeches, performances, and reflections on its journey from inception to becoming a household name in Delta State and beyond. Trend 100.9FM has earned a reputation for delivering balanced, impactful content that informs, educates, and entertains, making it a beacon of reliable information in an era of rapid media evolution.
During the award handover, representatives from the management of Trend 100.9FM lauded Sir Ahon's contributions, emphasizing how his proactive media engagements have been crucial in molding public opinion. They pointed out that Ahon's strategic communication efforts have not only spotlighted flagship projects under the M.O.R.E. agenda but have also cultivated a favorable narrative around the Oborevwori administration. Key among these initiatives are massive investments in education and skills development to empower the youth, healthcare reforms to improve accessibility, and extensive road networks, bridges, and urban renewal projects that are transforming the state's landscape. Ahon's ability to articulate these developments with clarity and enthusiasm has helped demystify government policies, encouraging public participation and support.
Accepting the award on behalf of Sir Ahon was Mr. Ivovi Aruoriwo, an Assistant Director of Information in the Directorate of Government House and Protocol. In a heartfelt response, Aruoriwo conveyed the CPS's deep appreciation for the recognition, extending warm congratulations to Trend 100.9FM for reaching its 10-year milestone. He praised the station for its unwavering dedication to high-quality programming that prioritizes objectivity, depth, and listener engagement. "Trend 100.9FM has become a delight for its audience through consistent, balanced reporting that holds power to account while celebrating progress," Aruoriwo noted, echoing the sentiments of many in attendance.
Sir Ahon, through his representative, dedicated the award to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whom he described as a visionary leader whose trust and support have been the cornerstone of his professional journey. "This honor belongs to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for giving me the platform to serve Delta State with passion and integrity," Ahon stated. He expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to an administration that is laser-focused on delivering tangible results for the people. Ahon's humility shone through as he also extended accolades to the Government House press corps, crediting their synergy and collaborative spirit for much of his success. "The media team in Government House is a family of dedicated professionals whose teamwork has amplified our collective impact," he added, underscoring the importance of partnership in effective public communication.
The ceremony was not just about Sir Ahon; it featured a constellation of distinguished recipients who have made significant strides in their respective fields. Among the other notable awardees was Ms. Orode Uduaghan, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, recognized for her compassionate leadership in addressing social welfare challenges and supporting vulnerable populations in Delta State. Dr. Kelvin Ezenyili, Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, was honored for his innovative local governance approaches that have enhanced community development and grassroots empowerment. Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Director General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, received plaudits for steering affordable healthcare initiatives that have expanded coverage and improved health outcomes for residents.
Adding a touch of media legacy to the list was Mr. Harrison Ocholor, a veteran broadcaster and Executive Assistant to Governor Oborevwori on Sports Development. Ocholor's award celebrated his enduring contributions to sports journalism and his role in promoting athletic talents, aligning with the administration's emphasis on youth engagement and physical development. These honorees, drawn from diverse sectors, exemplified excellence and dedication, mirroring the theme of the anniversary: celebrating impact and inspiring future generations.
The 10th-anniversary event of Trend 100.9FM was more than a gala; it was a reflection on the evolving media landscape in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region. Over the past decade, the station has navigated challenges such as digital disruption, funding constraints, and the need for ethical journalism amid misinformation. Yet, it has thrived by investing in talented broadcasters, adopting cutting-edge technology, and maintaining a listener-centric approach. Programs ranging from political analysis and cultural showcases to health awareness campaigns have endeared it to a broad demographic, from urban professionals in Asaba to rural farmers in remote communities.
Sir Ahon's recognition comes at a pivotal time for Delta State, as Governor Oborevwori's administration continues to roll out the M.O.R.E. agenda amid economic pressures and developmental demands. Initiatives like the Delta State Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (D-YAGEP) and the construction of ultra-modern flyovers in Warri and Effurun are gaining traction, thanks in part to effective media outreach led by figures like Ahon. His role extends beyond mere press releases; it involves crisis communication, stakeholder engagement, and digital media strategies that keep the public informed in real-time.
In dedicating the award to the governor and his team, Ahon reiterated his commitment to even greater service. "This is not an endpoint but a motivation to do more," he affirmed. The event concluded on a high note, with calls for stronger media-government collaboration to drive national progress. As Delta State forges ahead, honors like this reinforce the symbiotic relationship between journalism and governance, ensuring that stories of development reach every corner of the state.
This award to Sir Festus Ahon not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the broader contributions of media professionals in nation-building. Trend 100.9FM's gesture underscores the power of recognition in motivating public servants, while the anniversary itself marks a decade of resilience and relevance in broadcasting. With leaders like Governor Oborevwori at the helm and communicators like Ahon in the forefront, Delta State's future appears brighter, buoyed by transparency, innovation, and inclusive growth.
