The Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, Wilson Ojakovo, has thrown his weight behind the forthcoming third edition of the Advocate Annual Lecture Series, pledging his readiness to attend and offering prayers for the success of the event.
The royal endorsement came when a delegation from Advocate Publication Ltd, led by its Managing Director and Publisher, Shedrack Onitsha, paid a courtesy visit to the monarch at his palace. The visit was aimed at formally notifying the traditional ruler of the upcoming programme and extending an official invitation to him.
Receiving the delegation, Oharisi III commended the organisers for sustaining the lecture series and described the initiative as a timely and important platform for intellectual engagement, particularly at a time when the country faces pressing governance challenges.
The monarch noted that such forums are essential for encouraging critical thinking, dialogue, and the exchange of ideas on issues affecting national development. He expressed optimism that the Advocate Lecture Series would continue to grow in relevance and stature, eventually gaining international recognition.
He also offered prayers for the success of this year’s edition, urging the organisers to remain committed to promoting meaningful conversations that can contribute to positive change in society.
The Advocate Annual Lecture Series, organised by Advocate Publication Ltd, publishers of Advocate Newspaper, is scheduled to take place on April 16, 2026, at Wetland Hotel in Ughelli, Delta State.
This year’s lecture is themed “From Ballot to Patronage: Why Electoral Victory Fails to Deliver Good Governance in Nigeria,” and is expected to draw attention to the persistent gap between electoral success and effective governance in the country.
According to the organisers, the theme will explore critical issues such as patronage politics, weak institutional oversight, and the urgent need for reforms to strengthen accountability and transparency in governance.
The lecture aims to provide a platform for stakeholders to interrogate the structural and systemic challenges that hinder good governance, despite the conduct of elections and the emergence of elected leaders.
The event will feature Charles Apoki, a renowned international conference speaker and governance advocate, as the keynote speaker. He is expected to deliver a comprehensive address examining the underlying factors that weaken governance outcomes in Nigeria and propose practical solutions for reform.
Chairing the occasion is Patrick Muoboghare, a respected scholar and community leader known for his contributions to academic discourse and public service.
Among the high-profile dignitaries expected at the event is the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, who will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Also billed to attend as Guests of Honour are Ede Dafinone and Otega Emerhor, both prominent figures in the political and economic landscape of the state.
The lecture will further feature a panel of discussants drawn from diverse professional backgrounds. These include Omemiroro Ogedegbe, Omosetemi Agbede-Zuokumor, and Monday Ogheneruona Itoghor, who are expected to provide insights and perspectives on governance, accountability, and institutional reforms.
Moderating the session will be veteran journalist Abraham Ogbodo, whose experience in media and public affairs is expected to guide discussions and ensure a productive exchange of ideas.
Organisers say the Advocate Lecture Series has, over the years, evolved into a credible forum for robust dialogue on governance and national development. The platform brings together policymakers, academics, professionals, and thought leaders to examine key issues and propose actionable solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
They added that the annual lecture not only encourages informed discussions but also promotes civic engagement and awareness, particularly on matters that directly impact the lives of citizens.
The endorsement by the Ughelli monarch is widely seen as a significant boost to the event, reflecting the support of traditional institutions for initiatives that promote knowledge, dialogue, and societal progress.
Observers note that the involvement of the monarchy underscores the importance of collaboration between traditional leadership and modern institutions in addressing governance issues and fostering development.
With preparations already in full swing, expectations are high that this year’s edition will attract a large and diverse audience, including stakeholders from within and outside Delta State.
As the date approaches, the Advocate Annual Lecture Series is poised to once again provide a platform for meaningful engagement, with stakeholders hopeful that the discussions will contribute to shaping policies and strengthening governance practices in Nigeria.
