ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has inaugurated the State’s Advisory and Peace Building Council, outlining a compelling mandate for the council to support the government’s M.O.R.E Agenda. The agenda seeks to drive inclusive economic growth, environmental protection, religious harmony, and sustainable development in the state.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, where Governor Oborevwori introduced the appointees as individuals of exceptional wisdom, exemplary character, enviable track records of performance, and proven leadership qualities. He emphasized the immense benefit that the state and its people would gain from the wealth of knowledge and experience these appointees bring from both the public and private sectors.
Highlighting the pivotal role of peace and security in the state’s development, Governor Oborevwori stressed that his administration would continue the tradition of prioritizing peace as successive administrations since 1999 had done. He underlined the administration’s commitment to sustaining and strengthening the existing peace through the M.O.R.E Agenda, which specifically identifies Enhanced Peace and Security as its fourth pillar.
Governor Oborevwori stated, “This administration is committed to ensuring that the peace we currently enjoy in Delta State is not only sustained but also strengthened through our MORE agenda, which has Enhanced Peace and Security as the fourth pillar.” He further acknowledged that achieving peace involved more than coercion and law enforcement and pledged that the administration would address issues threatening peaceful coexistence and public safety in its policies and programs.
The terms of reference and responsibilities for the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council include:
Studying the general socio-economic and political situations in the State and rendering advice to the Government.
Advising on issues that promote a healthy relationship between the Executive arm of Government, the Legislature, the Judiciary, and the Local Government Councils.
Collaborating with traditional institutions, youth groups, Non-Governmental Organizations, socio-cultural organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss peace and security.
Carrying out in-depth studies on issues and advising on measures to tackle conflicts.
Detecting early warning signs and preventing conflict escalation.
Advising on appropriate peace-building platforms.
Deliberating and advising on matters referred to it by the Governor
Governor Oborevwori expressed his confidence in the appointees and offered his prayers for their success in this crucial assignment, seeking divine wisdom, guidance, and enablement.
The Council, which includes notable members like Professor Sam Oyovbaire as Chairman, Chief Dr. Chris Agbobu, Chief Benjamin Elue, and several others, was also lauded by the Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor, and Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon. They have been appointed as ex-officio members of the council.
In response, Professor Sam Oyovbaire commended Governor Oborevwori for the inclusive list and pledged the council’s full support and cooperation in advancing the Governor’s M.O.R.E Agenda. This inauguration marks a significant step toward fostering peace, harmony, and development in Delta State.
