Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, fiscal responsibility and sustainable development, declaring that he remains focused on serving all Deltans irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences.
The governor made the assertion on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of Catholic priests from the Warri, Issele-Uku and Bomadi dioceses at Government House, Asaba. The delegation was led by Rev. Monsignor John Ike Aduba.
Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Catholic clergy for their prayers, moral support and guidance, describing the Church as a critical partner in promoting peace, unity and good governance in society.
According to him, the successes recorded by his administration have been strengthened by the prayers and goodwill of the people, particularly faith-based institutions.
“The Bible encourages us to pray for those in authority so they can govern effectively. If people say we are doing well today, it is because God has answered the prayers offered on our behalf. He has granted us the wisdom and strength to serve the people of Delta State,” the governor said.
He commended the Catholic Church for its constructive engagement on public issues, noting that its leaders have consistently provided useful counsel through responsible and appropriate channels.
The governor said his administration remains guided by the fear of God and a determination to deliver the dividends of democracy through strategic infrastructure, human capital development, empowerment initiatives and enhanced security across the state.
Highlighting the administration’s fiscal management strategy, Oborevwori disclosed that Delta State has continued to meet its financial obligations, including the prompt payment of salaries and contractors, without resorting to borrowing.
“Every project awarded by this administration is backed by available funds. From the outset, I made a commitment that contractors would be paid promptly for work executed. By the grace of God, we have sustained that commitment while ensuring workers receive their salaries as and when due,” he stated.
The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the ongoing debate over the Warri Federal Constituency delineation, revealing that he recently convened a meeting involving leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities to preserve peace and prevent tensions from escalating.
He stressed that Delta State could not afford a return to the conflicts that previously affected the Warri area, adding that dialogue and mutual understanding remain essential to peaceful coexistence.
“We have experienced difficult times in the past, and there is no reason to repeat such experiences. I am pleased that stakeholders have demonstrated maturity and understanding in addressing the issues at hand,” he said.
Reiterating his philosophy of governance, Oborevwori emphasized that he governs for the collective interest of all Deltans and not for any particular ethnic group.
“Delta State is blessed with diverse ethnic nationalities, and successful leadership requires that every group feels included. I am not governor for one ethnic nationality; I am governor for all Deltans. Everything we have done has been guided by the principle of inclusiveness,” he added.
The governor further assured the delegation of his administration’s continued support for mission-owned schools and other faith-based initiatives that contribute to educational and social development within the state.
Responding to requests presented by the clergy, Oborevwori said the government would consider interventions at the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre in Oleri, Udu Local Government Area, including the possibility of constructing the access road leading to the facility.
Reflecting on his personal background, the governor recalled his Catholic upbringing and the devotion of his late father to the Church, noting that public service remains his primary motivation for seeking office.
“I did not become governor to enrich myself. I came to serve the people. I am passionate about improving lives and creating opportunities. By God’s grace, when my tenure ends in 2031, there will be visible achievements that Deltans can proudly point to,” he said.
Earlier, Very Rev. Prof. Jude Obiunu, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, commended the governor for his commitment to equitable development and inclusive governance across Delta State.
He assured the governor of the Church’s continued prayers and support, stating that Catholics across the state were encouraged by the administration’s efforts to spread development projects across various communities.
“The Church stands for good governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people. From what we have seen, your administration has demonstrated fairness and inclusiveness. Development projects are visible across different parts of Delta State,” Obiunu stated.
The cleric appealed for sustained government support for mission schools, noting that many institutions require infrastructure upgrades and additional assistance to improve educational standards.
He also requested government intervention on the access road and security lighting leading to the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre at Oleri, stressing that improved infrastructure would enhance accessibility and strengthen religious tourism and spiritual activities.
Obiunu urged the governor to remain focused on his developmental agenda and continue fostering unity among the diverse ethnic and political interests within the state.
The visit concluded with special prayers offered by the priests for Governor Oborevwori, the peace and progress of Delta State, and the continued unity and development of Nigeria.
