ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for a fair and transparent tax administration and responsible media engagement as Nigeria navigates critical economic reforms.
Speaking on Thursday at the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, held at Orchid Hotel, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, described taxation as the backbone of government revenue and a fundamental driver of national development.
“Without effective tax regimes, no government can sustainably provide infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security,” he stated. However, he emphasized that taxation must be fair, transparent, and growth-driven, noting that complex and multiple tax systems discourage investment while weak enforcement sabotages development efforts. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to broaden the tax base, plug leakages, and ensure judicious use of public funds in favour of citizens’ welfare.
On exchange rate unification, he described the policy as a bold stride toward stabilising the naira, reducing market distortions, and attracting foreign investment. While acknowledging the short-term pain, such as inflationary pressures, he stressed the long-term economic benefits. “These reforms will bring greater investor confidence, create a level playing field for businesses, and boost the competitiveness of Nigerian products,” he noted.
Governor Oborevwori said states like Delta—rich in oil, gas, and agricultural capacity, stand to benefit significantly from stable currency measures that enhance export potential and economic diversification. He assured that government was implementing targeted social safety programmes, investing in critical infrastructure, and supporting local industries to mitigate the impact of ongoing reforms.
He underscored the strategic role of the media, urging journalists to promote public understanding by providing accurate interpretation of policies, exposing government weaknesses where necessary, and highlighting resilience stories. “You are the bridge between policy and the people. With great influence comes a solemn responsibility,” he warned, cautioning against sensational or misleading reporting that could fuel tension or erode public confidence.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to partner with the media to deepen transparency and accountability. “As we celebrate Press Week, let us remember that the pen, the microphone, and the camera are powerful instruments. Used responsibly, they illuminate the path to economic stability, social justice, and national prosperity,” he declared, calling for unity in pursuit of a progressive Delta and Nigeria.
Delivering the keynote address, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South at the National Assembly, said tax reforms and exchange rate unification form core components of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic recovery agenda. “These reforms are not abstract ideas; they are strategic actions to rebuild an economy that works for all,” he said through his representative, Mr. Uzuazo Ikelegbe.
Earlier, the Chairman of NUJ, Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, said the theme of the event was carefully chosen to trigger informed debate, influence policy direction, and reinforce the media’s role as both watchdog and link between government and citizens. “Nigerian journalists must not only report policies but interpret them in ways that empower citizens to make informed decisions,” he stated.
Oyowe commended Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering support for press freedom and his administration’s investments in people-centred projects in line with the MORE Agenda, particularly in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth development.
