By Mokobia Rita
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has attributed the significant developmental strides recorded across the state in the last three years to the strong partnership between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, declaring that cooperation, mutual respect and a shared commitment to public service have remained the bedrock of Delta’s progress.
The governor made the assertion on Sunday at the Third Anniversary Thanksgiving Service of the Eighth Delta State House of Assembly held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Unity Model Parish, Asaba, where he praised lawmakers for their support and constructive engagement with his administration.
Addressing a gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries, Oborevwori said the peace, stability and developmental achievements being witnessed across the state were clear evidence of what could be achieved when institutions of government work in harmony rather than in conflict.
According to him, the cordial relationship between the Executive and Legislature has strengthened governance, accelerated project execution and enhanced government’s capacity to meet the aspirations of Deltans.
The governor paid glowing tribute to the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and members of the Assembly, describing them as disciplined, focused and committed lawmakers whose support has contributed immensely to the successes recorded by his administration.
He noted that through collaboration, mutual respect and strict adherence to constitutional responsibilities, both arms of government have fostered an atmosphere conducive to democratic growth, peace and sustainable development.
Oborevwori assured that his administration would continue to deepen democratic governance by respecting the independence of the Legislature while providing leadership anchored on transparency, accountability and the fear of God.
The governor also commended the Assembly for sustaining the tradition of annual thanksgiving services, describing the practice as a demonstration of humility and appreciation to God for His guidance and protection over the state.
Drawing inspiration from Proverbs 3:5-6, he said faith in God has remained central to his leadership philosophy and the achievements recorded by his administration.
He urged political office holders to continually seek divine wisdom in leadership, stressing that true success in governance depends not only on human effort but also on God’s direction and favour.
Beyond celebrating the achievements of the past three years, Oborevwori challenged lawmakers to intensify efforts at strengthening the connection between government and the grassroots.
He described members of the Assembly as vital links between government and the people, urging them to continue engaging their constituents through consultations, town hall meetings and community interactions aimed at explaining government policies and projects while also relaying the concerns of the people.
The governor reiterated that his administration’s people-oriented budgeting framework was deliberately structured to ensure equitable development across all parts of the state, while giving legislators opportunities to contribute meaningfully to identifying and addressing the needs of their constituencies.
Oborevwori also expressed appreciation to former Governors Chief James Ibori and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as other political leaders whose presence at the thanksgiving service, he said, reflected their continued commitment to the unity, peace and progress of Delta State.
Earlier, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the thanksgiving service was organised to appreciate God for His faithfulness since the inauguration of the Eighth Assembly on June 13, 2023.
Guwor noted that the Assembly’s achievements over the past three years, including legislative interventions, oversight functions and stakeholder engagements, were made possible through divine grace, unity of purpose and collective commitment among members.
He also applauded the healthy working relationship among the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, describing it as one of the major factors responsible for the peace and progress being enjoyed in the state.
Delivering a sermon titled, “Wisdom for Excellent Service,” the Pastor in Charge of RCCG Region 34, Asaba, Pastor John Oyomah, reminded leaders that positions of authority are ordained by God and that enduring success comes through divine favour and wisdom.
Quoting Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Psalm 102:13, the cleric congratulated Governor Oborevwori and other political office holders on what he described as visible manifestations of God’s grace upon their administration.
He particularly commended the governor’s infrastructural development initiatives, especially in road construction and other key projects, describing them as evidence of wisdom-driven leadership and purposeful governance.
The event reached a symbolic climax with the cutting of the Third Anniversary Thanksgiving Cake, signifying gratitude to God and a renewed commitment by leaders to continue serving the people diligently.
Among dignitaries present at the service were the wife of the Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; wife of the Deputy Governor, Lady Catherine Onyeme; Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Hon. Peter Akpe; former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa; former Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; APC State Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; Senators Joel-Onowakpo Thomas and Ede Dafinone; members of the National Assembly, top government officials, traditional rulers and other prominent stakeholders.
As the thanksgiving service ended, the overriding message remained clear: that unity among institutions of government remains critical to sustainable development, democratic stability and the continued progress of Delta State.
