Asaba, Delta State – In a significant display of appreciation for the traditional institution, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state. The gesture, held at the Government House in Asaba, comprised 60 Toyota Prado models and five Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, aimed at facilitating the royal fathers' mobility in their demanding roles.
Governor Oborevwori described the occasion as "a very important and symbolic day in the life of this administration," underscoring the indispensable contributions of traditional rulers to effective governance. He positioned the vehicles not as luxuries but as essential "tools of service" for these guardians of peace, culture, and stability.
Drawing from his extensive grassroots political background, the Governor emphasized that traditional rulers transcend mere custodians of customs, norms, and traditions. "They are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots," he stated. He highlighted their frontline involvement in mobilizing communities, promoting government initiatives, resolving disputes, supporting security agencies, and fostering peace-building efforts—often on a voluntary basis and without expectation of reward.
"Our Royal Fathers are often on the road, responding to government directives, mediating in communal disputes, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution. They do all these voluntarily and willingly. For this, we are truly grateful," Oborevwori added.
The choice of rugged, durable SUVs was deliberate, considering the challenging rural terrains many monarchs navigate daily. "These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service. What is required is strength, durability, and functionality, and that is what these vehicles provide," the Governor explained.
This presentation aligns seamlessly with Oborevwori's MORE Agenda—an acronym for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—which prioritizes inclusive governance and equitable support for all segments of society. The Governor reaffirmed his administration's irrevocable commitment to building a strong, inclusive economy grounded in equity and justice.
He pointed to a broad spectrum of social intervention programs already rolled out, including financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons through the Delta COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) Programme, grants to petty traders and artisans, empowerment initiatives for women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows statewide.
Additional achievements in workers' welfare encompass timely pension payments, scholarships, bursaries, and financial assistance for Delta indigenes pursuing studies at Nigerian Law Schools. "From the foregoing, it is clear that every segment of our population has been touched. So, when we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness," Oborevwori asserted.
In a heartfelt reflection, the Governor noted the cooperative spirit of the royal fathers: "You have not stressed me. You have not made demands. Wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, culture, and cooperation. This gesture today is from the heart."
Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme reinforced the message, describing the vehicle presentation as a practical demonstration of the administration's deep respect for traditional institutions. He credited the monarchs for their vital contributions to peace, unity, and stability across Delta State.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, in his welcome address, outlined the Oborevwori administration's developmental strides across sectors, characterizing governance in Delta as empathetic, forward-thinking, and deeply committed to collective welfare.
Representing the traditional rulers, prominent monarchs expressed profound gratitude. The Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor (JP); the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe I; and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), commended the Governor, noting that the SUVs would greatly enhance their efficiency in fulfilling traditional responsibilities, from community mediation to promoting development.
The Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, delivered the vote of thanks. He described the presentation as a "timely and deeply symbolic intervention" that bolsters grassroots governance and peace-building. "Mobility remains central to the effective discharge of traditional rulers' responsibilities," he said, adding that "a vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service."
The council chairman assured Governor Oborevwori of the unwavering support of the traditional institution, affirming royal fathers as custodians of culture and natural partners to government at the grassroots level.
This initiative reflects a broader pattern in Nigerian governance where state executives recognize and empower traditional rulers as key stakeholders in maintaining social harmony and implementing policies. Similar gestures have been seen in other states, such as Ondo, where Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa recently presented SUVs to monarchs to advance their welfare and efficiency.
In Delta State, the move is expected to further strengthen collaboration between the government and traditional leaders, facilitating smoother implementation of development programs in rural areas and contributing to sustained peace and progress under the MORE Agenda.
The event was attended by top government officials, royal fathers from various kingdoms, and stakeholders, marking another milestone in Oborevwori's commitment to inclusive and people-centered leadership.
