Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been named Governor of the Year 2025 by Leadership Newspapers in recognition of his administration’s strides in infrastructure expansion and inclusive governance.
The prestigious award was conferred at the 18th Leadership Annual Conference and Awards held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.
Governor Oborevwori was represented at the ceremony by his Deputy, Monday Onyeme.
The conference, themed “Political Stability and Sustainable Development in Africa in an Increasingly Unstable Global System: A Roadmap for Nigeria,” convened policymakers, thought leaders, and stakeholders to address pressing governance challenges.
According to Leadership Newspapers, the award recognises Governor Oborevwori’s effective translation of his MORE Agenda into tangible outcomes, including widespread infrastructure renewal and impactful social investment initiatives across Delta State.
The organisers cited the execution of numerous road projects and signature flyovers that have enhanced mobility and stimulated commercial activity across the three senatorial districts.
They also highlighted sustained interventions in education through school rehabilitation programmes, recruitment of personnel, bursary schemes, healthcare infrastructure upgrades, and expanded health insurance coverage.
Further commendation was given for the administration’s large-scale empowerment programmes benefiting hundreds of thousands of residents, as well as its fiscal discipline and early implementation of the new minimum wage.
The organisers noted that these efforts reflect a governance philosophy anchored on equity, prudence, consistency, and long-term stability.
Governor Oborevwori was honoured alongside Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Uba Sani (Kaduna).
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, was named Person of the Year 2025.
Speaking to journalists after receiving the award on behalf of the governor, Sir Onyeme expressed appreciation to the people of Delta State for their continued support.
“I thank Deltans for the huge support they have given this administration. It is because of their support that we have been able to achieve these milestones. We are grateful that our efforts are being recognised nationally,” he stated.
He referenced ongoing road construction, bridge development, market modernisation initiatives, healthcare interventions, and sustained investments in education, including Delta State’s four public universities, as clear indicators of the administration’s commitment to holistic development.
According to him, the recognition serves as both validation and motivation for the government to intensify efforts in delivering sustainable dividends of democracy.
Chairman of the occasion and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, delivered a thought-provoking address, situating the conference theme within the broader governance and stability challenges confronting Africa and the global community.
In her welcome remarks, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Leadership Newspapers, Zainab Nda-Isaiah, said the annual conference aims to foster meaningful national dialogue while celebrating individuals whose service and innovation continue to shape Nigeria’s development trajectory.
She emphasised that the awards recognise excellence, commitment, and sustained impact in public service.
