LAGOS/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has advocated a nationwide shift towards inclusive governance, arguing that equitable participation and fair representation remain central to achieving lasting unity and development in Nigeria.
Speaking at the annual lecture of the Yoruba Tennis Club in Lagos, the governor presented what he described as a practical governance framework rooted in inclusivity, drawing from policy experiences in Delta State as a guide for national cohesion.
Delivering a lecture titled “Inclusive Governance and National Unity: Lessons from Delta State for a More United Nigeria,” Oborevwori said the country’s diverse ethnic and social composition requires deliberate policies that ensure no group is left behind.
He explained that his administration’s MORE Agenda—Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—has been structured to promote fairness across all segments of society.
According to him, this approach has driven balanced infrastructure development, improved access to healthcare and education, and equitable distribution of resources across Delta’s three senatorial districts.
The governor disclosed that over 2.7 million residents are currently enrolled in the state’s health insurance scheme, while major infrastructure projects, including the Effurun-Warri flyovers and rural road networks, are designed to enhance economic integration beyond ethnic and geographical divides.
He also highlighted youth-focused initiatives, noting that more than 300,000 people have benefited from programmes in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and employment.
Oborevwori said social intervention policies such as the Widows Welfare Scheme and targeted support for vulnerable groups reflect the administration’s commitment to inclusive development, adding that opportunities in the state are accessible to both indigenes and non-indigenes.
On national economic reforms, he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold decisions, including fuel subsidy removal and the liberalisation of the naira, noting that these measures have strengthened fiscal capacity at subnational levels.
He maintained that improved revenue flow to states and local governments has enhanced their ability to execute development projects and expand inclusive growth.
The governor further called for the promotion of a shared national identity through education, media engagement and youth-driven initiatives, urging stakeholders to harness Nigeria’s diversity as a unifying force.
He proposed the institutionalisation of a periodic national conference every ten years, involving government, traditional institutions and civil society, to assess progress on inclusion and national cohesion.
Oborevwori stressed that national unity must be built from the grassroots through policies that prioritise fairness and equal opportunity, adding that sustained inclusive development across states would reduce tensions and strengthen the federation.
In his remarks, Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Sanwo-Olu, described the Yoruba Tennis Club’s centenary as a significant milestone, commending its enduring relevance over the years.
He also praised Oborevwori’s development strides in Delta State and welcomed participants, expressing confidence in the value of the discussions on governance and unity.
Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, appreciated the organisers for hosting the event and acknowledged the Delta governor’s participation.
Chairman of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Chief Olawunmi Gasper, in his welcome address, highlighted the club’s rich history and its commitment to fostering dialogue as it approaches its centenary celebrations.
