Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday night received two major accolades, Outstanding Independent Governor of the Year and Best Independent Governor in Urban Renewal 2025, at the prestigious Independent Newspapers Awards.
The ceremony, themed “Game Changers: Breaking Barriers, Shaping Tomorrow,” formed part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of Independent Newspapers.
The event took place at Eko Hotels and Suites, drawing prominent figures from across the country.
Represented by his deputy, Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori described the recognition as a strong endorsement of his administration’s developmental strides and policy direction.
Speaking to journalists after the event, Onyeme noted that the governor’s performance since assuming office in 2023 has significantly reshaped the development narrative in Delta State, particularly in the area of urban renewal.
He pointed to visible infrastructure improvements across major urban centres, stressing that the administration’s interventions have enhanced both functionality and aesthetics.
According to him, key projects, including multiple flyovers in Ughelli, Warri, Effurun, and Enerhen Junction, have eased traffic congestion and improved mobility.
Onyeme further disclosed that the state government has delivered approximately 300 kilometres of roads within a year, describing the feat as a decisive move toward addressing longstanding infrastructure gaps.
He maintained that the awards were a reflection of objective assessments, noting that recognitions of such magnitude are driven by measurable impact and performance.
The deputy governor added that the honours would inspire the administration to deepen its commitment to delivering tangible dividends of democracy, assuring that the government remains focused on service and development.
According to him, Governor Oborevwori is driven by a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to leave behind enduring legacies that will set benchmarks for future administrations.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Independent Newspapers, Steve Omanufeme, congratulated all awardees, explaining that the selection process combined public voting with rigorous evaluation by a jury and the organisation’s board.
Omanufeme also revealed that activities commemorating the newspaper’s silver jubilee would continue later in the year, culminating in a grand celebration involving key stakeholders.
