ABUJA/Nigeria: Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Elective Convention, describing it as a clear demonstration of the party’s expanding strength and nationwide acceptance.
Speaking to journalists at the Eagle Square venue in Abuja on Friday night, the governor said his decision to defect to the ruling party in April 2025 was already yielding tangible benefits for Delta State, particularly in terms of governance and access to federal support.
Oborevwori explained that his move to the APC was a strategic decision aimed at aligning the state with the centre, noting that the alignment has improved resource flow and enhanced the state’s ability to deliver on its development agenda.
“I’m happy to be here today. That bold decision we took on April 28, 2025, is manifesting today. I was the first governor after the 2023 elections to move into APC because we wanted to connect with the centre, and we have connected,” he said.
He added that several other governors have since followed the same path, pointing to the growing influence of the APC, which now boasts 31 governors across the federation—an unprecedented feat in Nigeria’s political history since 1999.
The governor attributed improved fiscal capacity among states to the policies of President Bola Tinubu, noting that increased allocations have enabled state governments to meet key obligations, including salary payments and execution of projects.
“We are happy with that decision because the policies and programmes of Mr President are working. It may take time, but we are already seeing results. Before now, states struggled to pay salaries, but today we can meet our obligations and pay contractors,” he stated.
Oborevwori acknowledged the economic challenges facing Nigerians but maintained that ongoing reforms are gradually yielding positive outcomes, expressing confidence that citizens would ultimately appreciate the administration’s efforts.
He further described the massive turnout at the convention as a reflection of growing public confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu, predicting that the APC would be rewarded at the polls in the 2027 general elections.
On his administration’s performance, the governor reiterated his commitment to delivering dividends of democracy, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
According to him, Delta State has continued to record progress across key sectors, while improved security has eliminated attacks on oil facilities, resulting in increased production.
“Delta State remains number one in oil production, and we are going to do more for our people,” he said.
Oborevwori urged residents to sustain their support for both the federal and state governments, assuring that ongoing policies and programmes are geared towards improving the welfare and overall well-being of the people.
