ASABA/Nigeria: Sheriff Oborevwori has been honoured with the Lions Club International Icon of Leadership Excellence Award in recognition of what the organisation described as his impactful governance, infrastructural development and commitment to creating a peaceful environment in Delta State.
The award was presented on Thursday at the Government House in Asaba during a courtesy visit by members of Lions Club International District 404 Nigeria led by the Multiple Council Chairperson, Ibrahim Jide Bello, ahead of the organisation’s 19th Multiple Convention scheduled to hold in the Delta State capital.
Speaking during the presentation, Bello said the decision to host the convention in Asaba was influenced by the state’s improving infrastructure, security architecture, accessibility and peaceful atmosphere under the Oborevwori administration.
He commended the governor for fostering an environment that encouraged confidence among members of the humanitarian organisation to stage one of its biggest gatherings in Delta State.
According to him, Asaba emerged as the preferred destination after extensive evaluation of critical requirements necessary for a successful international convention.
Bello thanked the governor for the support and leadership that made the hosting arrangement possible, describing the administration as responsive and development-oriented.
He noted that Lions Club International, founded in 1917, remained one of the largest humanitarian organisations globally, with over 1.4 million members spread across more than 200 countries and geographical areas.
The Lions leader explained that the organisation’s humanitarian interventions covered several sectors, including vision care, childhood cancer support, environmental sustainability, hunger relief, disaster response, youth empowerment, mental health advocacy and healthcare delivery.
Bello further praised the developmental initiatives of the Oborevwori administration, particularly in healthcare, social welfare, security and policy reforms, noting that the governor’s MORE Agenda shared common values with the humanitarian mission of Lions Club International.
He disclosed that the Lions International Foundation was considering expanded healthcare and humanitarian interventions in the state, including support for the Warri Central Hospital and other community-based projects.
Responding, Governor Oborevwori expressed appreciation to the organisation for the recognition and applauded Lions Club International for its longstanding humanitarian services across the state.
The governor specifically acknowledged the organisation’s contributions to healthcare delivery through medical outreach programmes and the Lions Eye Clinic, which he said had positively impacted many residents.
Oborevwori stated that Delta State was pleased to host the convention for the second time, adding that the development reflected the growing confidence of nationaSheriff Oborevwori l and international organisations in the state.
According to him, hosting the convention would stimulate tourism, boost economic activities and further strengthen Delta State’s reputation as a peaceful and investment-friendly destination.
The governor said the values of compassion, integrity and service promoted by Lions Club International resonated strongly with the objectives of his administration’s MORE Agenda, which prioritises inclusive growth and improved living conditions for citizens.
He assured the organisation of the continued support of the Delta State Government for humanitarian and development-driven initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of residents.
“You are truly partners in progress, and we deeply appreciate the remarkable work you continue to do in service to humanity,” the governor added.
