By Martina Egobuike-Enebeli
In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the longest-serving Speaker of the House of Assembly assuming the role of Governor of Delta State, expressed his hope and confidence in the state’s future.
This article examines the gains and flaws of Governor Oborevwori’s speech, shedding light on their potential impact on Delta State’s development.
Gains in the Speech
Governor Oborevwori began by acknowledging his predecessor, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and commended his remarkable leadership during challenging times.
He highlighted Okowa’s accomplishments in fiscal discipline, human capital development, infrastructure renewal, technical and vocational education, and peacebuilding.
Making reference to his predecessor, it provides a solid foundation for the new administration to build upon and work towards a progressive Delta State.
The governor unveiled his MORE agenda, which focuses on Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security.
He outlined the government’s objectives, including sustainable economic growth, human capital development, infrastructure development, governance, and accountability enhancement, and public financial management strengthening.
These objectives offer a promising framework for the state’s progress and address key areas that require attention.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of job creation and reducing crime through entrepreneurship development programs for youth and enhanced social investment programs for vulnerable groups.
The commitment to attend to women’s associations, especially in rural areas, is a welcome step toward fostering gender equality.
His mention of ongoing projects, such as roads, bridges, and schools, with a pledge to create a conducive environment for public-private partnerships, is a welcome development, and this need to be applauded.
Additionally, the focus on agricultural development and the agricultural value chain as drivers of sustainable economic growth demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing food security, unemployment, and wealth creation.
Flaws in the Speech
Despite highlighting gains and aspirations, Governor Oborevwori’s speech lacked a clear roadmap for achieving the outlined objectives.
The absence of specific plans and implementation strategies raises concerns about the feasibility of the agenda and the governor’s ability to translate goals into tangible actions.
Another notable flaw is the absence of environmental concerns and sustainable development policies of the new government.
It is worthwhile to note here that without any development agenda to incorporate strategies for environmental conservation and climate change mitigation, one cannot appreciate the sustainable development of the new government, as sustainability cannot be achieved without a clear policy agenda.
Although Governor Oborevwori pledged to enhance governance and accountability systems, the speech lacked concrete measures to ensure transparency, eradicate corruption, and strengthen institutions.
Without clear commitments and actionable plans, it remains uncertain how the government will fulfill these promises.
Conclusion
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s inaugural speech showcases both gains and flaws for Delta State’s development.
While the lack of specific plans, limited mention of sustainability, and insufficient commitments to good governance are concerning, there are promising aspects to his address.
The acknowledgment of past achievements, focus on job creation and empowerment, emphasis on infrastructure development, recognition of agriculture’s importance, and commitment to addressing security concerns provide a solid foundation for progress.
It will be good that development agencies and partners to follow up with the implementation of these goals and hold the government accountable to fulfil its promises.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s clear vision and ambitious agenda set the stage for a transformative era in Delta State.
However, it is crucial that the administration addresses the flaws in the speech by providing detailed plans, incorporating sustainability measures, and ensuring transparency and accountability.
By doing so, the government can genuinely make life richer, better, and more fulfilling for all residents of Delta State.
