WARRI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence at the maiden edition of the Warri International Film Festival, recognising his outstanding support for Nollywood and his transformative impact on the city of Warri.
The prestigious honour was presented at a vibrant ceremony held at the GT Events Hall in Warri, which brought together filmmakers, cultural advocates, and key players in the nation’s creative industry. The award celebrates the Governor’s sustained commitment to infrastructure renewal, urban regeneration, and policies that continue to expand 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 the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, expressed deep appreciation to the organisers for acknowledging the Governor’s developmental strides and vision for Warri.
Speaking on the festival’s theme, “Film: The More Local, The More Global,” Aniagwu said: “Let me appreciate His Excellency for giving me the privilege to receive this prestigious award on his behalf. This honour recognises his unwavering support for Nollywood and his commitment to the transformation of Warri.
“The Governor’s efforts in rebuilding Warri through infrastructural renewal, revival of commercial activities, improved security, enhanced environmental cleanliness, and social empowerment initiatives are already yielding visible and impactful results.”
Aniagwu noted that the award further affirms the Governor’s determination to restore Warri’s pride of place as a commercial and cultural hub in the Niger Delta. He added that the administration’s investments in roads, urban beautification, security infrastructure, and youth-focused creative programmes are opening new opportunities for filmmakers, entertainers, and stakeholders across the creative sector.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, announced plans to establish a film village in Warri by 2026 to boost the city’s status as a major centre for Nigeria’s film industry. He explained that the initiative will promote creative interest and attract significant investment into the region’s film ecosystem.
Founder of the festival and renowned filmmaker, Mr. Alex Eyengho, described Governor Oborevwori as a “visionary leader whose policies have created a conducive environment for artistic expression and cinematic growth.” He said the festival was conceived to showcase Warri’s creative talent to the world and strengthen the city’s position as a cultural hotspot.
Eyengho commended the state government for enhancing partnerships between the entertainment sector and public institutions, a development he said would improve job creation and make Delta State a preferred destination for film production.
Debuting this year, the Warri International Film Festival features local and international films aimed at inspiring emerging filmmakers and repositioning Warri within the global cultural map. Governor Oborevwori’s Award of Excellence was one of the high points of the event, drawing applause from guests who lauded his vision and continued support for the creative community.
With this honour, Governor Oborevwori joins the ranks of Nigerian leaders celebrated for championing the growth of the creative sector and driving the socio-economic revival of Warri. The organisers expressed optimism that his strides will continue to inspire new talent and attract investments that will elevate Delta State within the global film industry.
