OGULAHA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed that no ethnic nationality in the state will be excluded from his administration’s development agenda, pledging continued commitment to peace, equity, and even development across all communities.
The Governor made the pledge on Wednesday at Obotebe I community during the 20th coronation anniversary of the Ebenanaowei of Ogulagha Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Capt. King Joseph Timiyan, PhD, Torububou I, in Burutu Local Government Area.
Congratulating the monarch, who also serves as Chairman of the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, Governor Oborevwori described the anniversary as “a historic celebration of two decades of visionary and dignified leadership,” noting that the Ogulagha Kingdom had enjoyed renewed unity, cultural pride, and stronger engagement with government under the King’s reign.
“Two decades on the throne represent not just the passage of time, but the consolidation of vision, stability, and progress. Your Majesty has carried the responsibility of leadership with grace, dignity, and a profound sense of duty to your people,” the Governor said.
Oborevwori commended the monarch for his unwavering advocacy for fairness in issues affecting oil-producing communities, saying such commitment had deepened cooperation between traditional institutions and government. He described Ogulagha as one of the most productive oil-bearing communities in the Niger Delta and assured that his administration recognizes the area’s strategic role in the state’s economy.
“Ogulagha Kingdom and other Ijaw communities are key to Delta’s prosperity. The government cannot overlook their contributions. Under my watch, no ethnic nationality will be neglected. Every group will be carried along in our development plans,” he assured.
The Governor noted that he had visited the community three times since assuming office, describing the repeated visits as evidence of his inclusive leadership style. He praised Torububou I for his integrity, recalling the monarch’s strong support during the 2023 general elections. “This is not just an official visit; it’s personal. I know this man. He is courageous and speaks the truth always. During the last elections, he stood firm and supported me, and I will never forget that. God will continue to bless you,” he said.
Reiterating his administration’s philosophy of balanced development, Governor Oborevwori said infrastructural growth must extend beyond urban centres to include communities that significantly contribute to national wealth. He attributed the prevailing peace in Delta’s oil-producing areas to the government’s sustained engagement with host communities.
“Governance is not about building flyovers or roads only in the cities while neglecting the areas that produce the oil. That kind of neglect creates unrest. I am happy that since I became governor, we have had no crisis or attacks on oil installations because we maintain a good working relationship with all communities,” he stated.
The Governor further emphasized his administration’s fiscal prudence, noting that Delta remains one of the few states owing no contractors despite not borrowing since the current administration began. “Delta is one state in Nigeria today where no contractor is being owed, and we have not borrowed a dime. That shows good governance and fiscal discipline,” he stressed.
Oborevwori also highlighted the importance of harmonious relations with the Federal Government, saying cooperation with the centre has opened more development opportunities for the state. “Peace is the only foundation for development. That is why we are working closely with the Federal Government. Mr. President loves Delta State, and our cooperation ensures that we attract more development,” he said.
The Governor lauded the people of the Ogulagha Kingdom for their loyalty, hospitality, and commitment to peace, expressing hope that the King’s reign would continue to bring unity and prosperity.
“As we celebrate your 20th coronation anniversary, I pray that your reign continues to bring unity, prosperity, and development to the Ogulagha Kingdom and the entire Ijaw nation. Delta State will continue to stand by you,” he concluded.
