ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been named Governor of the Year 2024 (Health) by the Board of Editors of Daily Independent Newspapers Limited in recognition of his administration’s outstanding contributions to the state’s healthcare sector. The newspaper’s editorial board unanimously voted for Governor Oborevwori, citing his deliberate policies that have transformed Delta’s health system and positioned it as a model for sustainable healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
According to a source, in a nomination letter addressed to the governor, Daily Independent highlighted key initiatives such as the automatic employment of doctors and nurses to address the workforce shortage caused by the mass migration of health professionals abroad, known as the “Japa syndrome.”
The publication also commended the state’s competitive salary structure for medical personnel, which surpasses those of federal and other state-owned health institutions, as well as significant investments in medical equipment and infrastructure.
The source also stated that, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has also overseen the renovation of over 200 out of 411 primary healthcare centers in the state, ensuring improved working conditions for health workers. Additionally, the accreditation of science courses in Delta’s four state-owned universities and the establishment of the College of Health Technology in Ovrode, Isoko North, were highlighted as part of his government’s commitment to expanding healthcare education and manpower development, earned him nomination.
The source further stated that another major achievement recognized by Daily Independent is the doubling of enrollees in the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, from just over one million to more than two million under Oborevwori’s leadership.
The editorial board described these reforms as crucial to positioning Delta State as a future healthcare hub in Nigeria. The award presentation is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event will also honour other distinguished leaders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, and Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, the federal lawmaker representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, among others.
This award, coming few weeks after the management of Thisday/Arise TV, and that of the Daily Telegraph also recognized the Delta State Government. From investigation of this medium, decision for the award was taken in November 2024.
