Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been presented with an Award of Excellence at the maiden edition of the Warri International Film Festival, in recognition of his unwavering support for Nollywood and his transformative development efforts across Warri.
The award was conferred at a colourful ceremony held at the GT Events Hall, Warri, which attracted filmmakers, cultural advocates, and key stakeholders in the creative industry.
It highlights the Governor’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, urban regeneration, and policy initiatives that continue to strengthen Delta State’s creative economy.
Also recognised at the event were the member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, and Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, expressed deep appreciation to the organisers for acknowledging the Governor’s vision and achievements.
Speaking on the festival theme, “Film: The More Local, The More Global,” Aniagwu stated: “Let me appreciate His Excellency for giving me the honour of receiving this prestigious award on his behalf.
“It is a clear recognition of his steadfast support for Nollywood and his commitment to the transformation of Warri.
The Governor’s ongoing work, through infrastructural upgrades, revived commercial activity, improved security, enhanced environmental cleanliness, and social empowerment programmes—is already yielding visible, positive results.”
Aniagwu further noted that the recognition reinforces the Governor’s pledge to restore Warri to its place as a major commercial and cultural hub in the Niger Delta.
He added that the administration’s investments in road development, urban beautification, improved security networks, and youth-oriented creative initiatives continue to expand opportunities for filmmakers, entertainers, and other creative professionals.
In his remarks, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro announced plans by the Warri South Local Government Council to establish a film village in Warri in 2026.
The project aims to further position Warri as a key centre for Nigeria’s film industry and attract increased investment into the region’s creative ecosystem.
The festival’s founder, veteran filmmaker and journalist, Mr. Alex Eyengho, described Governor Oborevwori as a “visionary leader whose policies have fostered a conducive environment for artistic expression and cinematic advancement.”
He explained that the Warri International Film Festival was created to promote the city’s creative industry and showcase its talents to global audiences.
Eyengho commended the Delta State Government for building stronger synergies between the entertainment industry and public institutions, an approach he said would drive job creation and help position the state as a preferred destination for film production.
Making its debut this year, the festival seeks to spotlight local and international films, inspire emerging creatives, and reinforce Warri’s status as a vibrant cultural hub.
Governor Oborevwori’s award was one of the standout moments of the event, earning applause from attendees who lauded his developmental agenda and sustained support for the creative sector.
With this honour, Governor Oborevwori joins a distinguished group of leaders recognised for advancing the creative industry and contributing significantly to Warri’s socio-economic revival.
The organisers expressed optimism that the Governor’s continued efforts will inspire more creative talents and attract further investments that will elevate Delta State’s profile in the global film industry.
