Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has stressed the need for visionary, competent and selfless leadership to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, saying that strong institutions can only thrive when guided by leaders of integrity, character and patriotism.

The governor stated this on Thursday at the inaugural Professor Sam Oyovbaire Public Service Lecture held at the main auditorium of Southern Delta University, Orerokpe Campus, where he paid glowing tribute to the renowned political scientist and former Minister of Information for his outstanding contributions to scholarship and national development.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Governor Oborevwori described the institution of the annual lecture series as a fitting recognition of Professor Oyovbaire’s enduring legacy in academia and public service.

He said: “I congratulate Southern Delta University for instituting this lecture series to celebrate a man whose scholarship and public service have enriched our democratic journey.”

He noted that Professor Oyovbaire had distinguished himself through intellectual excellence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to nation-building, adding that his works had deepened national understanding of democracy, governance and federalism while inspiring generations of scholars and public servants.

Oborevwori described the lecture theme, “Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament,” as timely and thought-provoking, saying it underscored the critical role of leadership in the success of democratic institutions.

According to him, no system of government can succeed without capable and visionary leaders who are committed to the common good of the people.

“Strong institutions are important, but they can only flourish when guided by men and women of character, competence and patriotism,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, inclusive development and policies aimed at improving the welfare of Deltans through the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda.

He said the state government had continued to demonstrate that purposeful leadership, prudent management of public resources and effective collaboration remained essential ingredients for sustainable development and meaningful progress.

Oborevwori also urged participants at the lecture to engage actively in the discussions and translate the ideas generated into practical solutions capable of strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and advancing national development.

He congratulated Professor Oyovbaire for the honour bestowed on him and commended the management of Southern Delta University for establishing the lecture series, describing it as a laudable initiative that would promote intellectual discourse and contribute to the country’s democratic development.

The event was attended by some members of the Delta State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, senior government officials, academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other distinguished guests.

The Federal Information Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, today 6th August 2026 held a special congress where the previous executive committee (Exco) gave account of its stewardship preceding its dissolution, and a new executive committee was elected on expiration of the tenure of Comrade Abel Johngold-led Exco, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the chapel.

The event took place in the chapel’s secretariat at Federal Information Centre, Federal Secretariat Asaba, and was attended by executive members of the state council led by the Council Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe and Ag. Council Secretary Comrade Josephine Omordior, as well as National Ex Officio member, Comrade Felix Igbekoyi.

The special congress was presided by State Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyowe and moderated by the Ag. State Secretary Comrade Josephine Omordior. Oyowe commended and congratulated the Abel Johngold-led Exco for leading the chapel peacefully and leaving the chapel better than it was in previous tenures.

Comrade Abel Johngold gave his stewardship account, citing that he was unanimously re-elected to serve as Chairman of the Federal Information Chapel for the 2023–2026 union term. He recounted his commitment which was to revitalizing the Chapel, strengthening unity among members and improving its operational effectiveness.

Speaking further, the two-term Chapel Chairman outlined intentional measures he took to achieve the successes recorded so far, which include; formal and informal meetings to foster cooperation and participation, transparency, accountability, financial prudence, capacity building programmes, welfare and chapel project one of which was a signpost at the entrance of Federal Secretariat, Asaba, clearly identifying the location of the Federal Information Chapel.

Johngold further noted that his tenure was not without challenges ranging from poor records and meeting attendance to weak financial commitment of members, which he weathered with the support of his Exco members. He ceased the opportunity to appreciate every member for the confidence reposed in him to serve while his tenure lasted.

The Credentials Committee Chairperson, Comrade Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, who also is the Delta State Director of National Orientation Agency, stated that the contestants’ certificates and financial standings were duly screened to certify eligibility, noting that today’s election is for the position of Chairman, while that of Secretary was unopposed with a lone contestant, in view of a bye election to fill in other executive posts.

The outcome of the election reflected an overwhelming vote in favour of Comrade Tamara Febau over Comrade Kelly Gilor as Chairman, while Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma was returned as Secretary unopposed.

In an acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Comrade Tamara Febau, thanked the congress and accepted the position with a sense of responsibility, noting that the position of Chairman is not a title but a call to duty. He called on the support of everyone especially his co-contestant Comrade Kelly Gilor to work with him and move the chapel forward.

The State Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe gave a closing remarks, congratulating the newly elected Chairman and encouraged him to be magnanimous in victory, while urging the contender to be gallant and cease other opportunities to serve the union. He termed the victory a victory for the chapel and the union having witnessed a peaceful and rancor-free election, and charged the chapel to come up with activities such as training and collaborative programmes to promote the union, while urging members to leverage on existing media to promoting the chapel and giving it visibility.

Oyowe harped on continuous peaceful coexistence of Chapel members which resonates at the State Council, and urged the Chairman to encourage members to upgrade their qualifications, citing IIJ Professional Studies with the present session having 20 candidates. Finally, he thanked the Credentials Committee for a job well done.

Mrs. Ikolomi appreciated everyone for the peaceful conduct of the election, noting that there was no Victor, no Vanquish. She expressed optimism that members would be more involved in subsequent elections, and charged the newly elected executives to carry every member in the chapel along.

In a vote of thanks, the newly elected Chapel Secretary, Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma thanked the State Council executives led by the Council Chairman Comrade Churchill Oyowe and Ag. State Secretary Comrade Josephine Omodior for the smooth and successful moderation of the election, everyone in attendance, and recognized the presence of a National Ex Officio member, Comrade Felix Igbekoyi. “I pray God grant us the newly elected Exco the wisdom to pilot the affairs of the chapel to a greater height;” Ijeoma prayed.

Highpoints of the congress were account stewardship, dissolution of exco, election and inauguration of new exco, and group photograph.

The Delta State Government’s drive to attract foreign direct investment received a major boost on Wednesday as investors from Brazil, Malaysia and the United States expressed strong interest in investing in the state’s agriculture, energy and industrial sectors following an inspection tour of key investment sites across the state.

The investors, who participated in the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, visited the Kwale Special Economic Zone, where they were conducted round the facilities of Kwale Gas Gathering Hub and Phoenix Company.

The team also visited Skyward Resources Group in Oleh and Uzezi Farms in Oyede, where they commended the state’s investment-friendly environment and pledged to explore strategic partnerships.

Leader of the Brazilian agribusiness delegation, Roberto Fonseca, described the Kwale Special Economic Zone as a well-conceived initiative capable of attracting global investors and boosting Nigeria’s industrialisation.

Fonseca said the delegation had monitored developments at the economic zone for some time before they decided to visit, adding that the project reflected the Delta State Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment.

He disclosed that the Brazilian group was considering investments in gas-fired power generation and a cassava processing plant through a joint venture arrangement, noting that Kwale’s strategic location made it an ideal destination for such projects.

“We have been studying the Kwale Special Economic Zone with great interest because we believe it is a very wise decision by the Delta State Government. We are planning investments in natural gas power generation and cassava processing, and I believe the Brazilian flag will soon stand alongside the Nigerian flag here in a fruitful partnership,” he said.

During a visit to Skyward Resources Group and Uzezi Farms, Fonseca praised the modern agricultural facilities, describing them as evidence that Nigeria possesses the capacity to strengthen food production and achieve food security.

He said Brazil, regarded as one of the world’s leading agribusiness nations, was prepared to invest in ranching, beef processing and partner Nigeria through technology transfer and innovation to improve agricultural productivity.

“Food security remains one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges, and Brazil is ready to contribute by bringing technology, expertise and investment. We are committed to partnering Nigeria to build a stronger agricultural sector,” he stated.

Also speaking, Malaysian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, said Malaysia was exploring investment opportunities in Delta State’s agricultural sector, particularly oil palm development.

The envoy noted that he attended the summit alongside representatives of Malaysian agribusiness firms with extensive experience in large-scale plantation management, including operators managing over 12,000 hectares of oil palm in Nigeria.

He said discussions had already commenced with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on possible collaboration to develop Delta’s oil palm industry, expressing confidence that Malaysia’s expertise could support the state’s agricultural transformation.

Founder of Agrinexus, Dr. Shermal Perera, said his organisation was already working in Nigeria and had begun collaborating with local partners in Delta State.

Perera disclosed that Agrinexus serves as technical partner to JB Farms, one of Nigeria’s leading oil palm companies, while also supporting DELCOM on a proposed smallholder oil palm development programme.

He added that the company had brought an American investor to explore investment opportunities in Delta, stressing that international interest in the state was already translating into concrete business engagements.

Speaking during the tour, Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, who led the delegation, said the state deliberately combined investment discussions with field visits to existing businesses to demonstrate that Delta was genuinely prepared for investment.

According to him, the inspection tour was designed to convince prospective investors that beyond presentations at the summit, the state already possesses thriving private sector investments ready for expansion through international partnerships.

“What we are looking for is partnership, technology and expertise. We want investors to see that Delta means business. We have indigenous entrepreneurs who are here to stay and are ready to partner with investors from across the world. We want you to have confidence that your investments will be safe in Delta State,” Onyeme said.

Managing Director of Skyward Resources Group, Chief Eta Enahoro, said his agricultural enterprise had been developed with significant Brazilian technical support, noting that the company’s greenhouse facilities, poultry operations and feed mill were built using Brazilian expertise.

He revealed that the farm currently operates 42 greenhouse units and a poultry facility with a capacity exceeding 30,000 birds, while calling on foreign investors to partner the company in expanding its operations.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday declared that the state can no longer rely solely on oil revenue, urging local and foreign investors to take advantage of the vast opportunities across critical sectors of the economy as his administration intensifies efforts to diversify the state’s economic base.

Speaking at the close of the second day of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, the governor thanked all participants, local and foreign investors, saying deliberations at the summit had reinforced the urgent need to expand investments beyond the oil and gas sector to ensure sustainable economic growth, job creation and shared prosperity.

He said the business sessions on agriculture and livestock development, the energy ecosystem, the blue economy and transport infrastructure, solid minerals and mining, the digital economy and innovation, as well as the legal framework for investments, had demonstrated that Delta State possesses enormous untapped investment opportunities capable of transforming its economy.

“We can no longer depend on one source of revenue. We must diversify our economy by attracting strategic investments into sectors where Delta State has a clear comparative advantage. That is the pathway to creating jobs, growing businesses and improving the quality of life of our people,” Oborevwori said.

The governor explained that the summit was deliberately designed as a private sector-driven initiative rather than a government-centred event, stressing that its primary objective was to connect investors with viable business opportunities capable of delivering sustainable returns.

According to him, the state government’s role is to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive through supportive policies, improved infrastructure, security and strategic partnerships with the private sector.

He disclosed that the state had already secured land and put other critical measures in place to encourage investments across key sectors of the economy, adding that investment roadshows had been undertaken to countries such as China and Brazil to showcase Delta’s economic potential.

Describing the summit as more than a policy dialogue, he said it had become a practical platform for connecting investors with bankable opportunities and translating investment interests into concrete projects.

He maintained that the summit was not a mere “talk show” but a strategic platform backed by serious investors already on ground, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment by strengthening infrastructure, guaranteeing policy consistency, promoting security and fostering stronger partnerships with the private sector.

The governor expressed optimism that the ideas, partnerships and commitments emerging from the summit would culminate in tangible investments capable of accelerating industrialisation, expanding employment opportunities and positioning Delta State as one of Nigeria’s leading investment destinations.

Earlier during the panel sessions, experts identified agriculture, livestock, mining, blue economy and legal reforms as critical sectors for attracting sustainable investments.

Speaking during the agriculture, agribusiness and agro-industry session, former South-South Vice President of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN), Chief Eta Enahoro, urged the state government to prioritise investments in fish and poultry production, saying both sectors possess enormous capacity to create jobs, reduce unemployment and transform Delta into a leading agribusiness hub.

He noted that many young people seeking political appointments could become successful entrepreneurs if adequately supported to establish poultry and fish farms.

Also speaking, Brazilian agribusiness investor, Roberto Fonseca, unveiled plans to partner the Delta State Government to develop a modern cattle and beef value chain, covering cattle breeding, ranching, slaughterhouses, beef processing, cold storage, refrigerated transportation and distribution networks.

Fonseca said Delta possesses climatic and environmental conditions similar to those that enabled Brazil to become the world’s largest cattle and beef producer, adding that the partnership could position the state as a major livestock production hub for Nigeria and neighbouring African markets.

On the blue economy and transport infrastructure, Dr. Uche Igwe called on the state government to tackle illegal and unregulated fishing activities to maximise the economic potential of its waterways.

Mosra Energy Managing Director, Ramos Olukayode, said Delta State has over 200 million tonnes of coal deposits in Obomkpa, Ugbodu and Ukunzu, exceeding the estimated reserves in Enugu and Kogi states. He described the deposits as a major asset for the state’s industrialisation drive.

He disclosed plans to build a 600-megawatt power plant at Obomkpa, with over 200 hectares already secured for the project, adding that the area also has abundant kaolin and clay deposits to support manufacturing activities at the proposed industrial hub.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former Minister of Information and renowned political scientist, Professor Sam Oyovbaire, on his 85th birthday, describing him as an accomplished scholar, elder statesman and patriot whose contributions to nation-building have remained enduring.

Oborevwori in a statement issued on Tuesday in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said Oyovbaire’s remarkable career in academia, public service and governance had earned him national respect and made him one of Delta State’s most distinguished sons.

He commended the octogenarian for his unwavering commitment to peace, democracy and good governance, noting that his leadership as Chairman of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council has continued to foster unity and stability in the state.

Oborevwori also recalled Oyovbaire’s tenure as Minister of Information under the administration of former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, where he played a significant role in shaping government communication and public policy.

The governor noted that the professor’s vast experience and intellectual depth had remained invaluable to successive administrations in Delta State, adding that his contributions to political science, governance and public administration continue to inspire scholars, public office holders and younger generations.

“Professor Sam Oyovbaire is an exceptional scholar, accomplished administrator, respected statesman and leader whose life has been dedicated to the service of humanity,” Oborevwori said.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate Professor Sam Oyovbaire, a father-figure, lifter of men, and great Nigerian patriot on this remarkable milestone. It is my prayer that this new year will bring you as much joy, love, and hope as you spread to others with your reassuring attitude,” the governor added.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, on the occasion of his 68th birthday, describing him as a dynamic leader whose contributions to the growth and development of the state remain significant.

In a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor praised Ibori for his leadership during his tenure as governor between 1999 and 2007, saying he inspired many through his vision, resilience and commitment to public service.

Oborevwori described the former governor as a great motivator and an inspirational leader who laid important foundations for the development of Delta State, adding that his impact continues to be appreciated by many across the state and beyond.

The Governor said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate our dynamic and inspirational leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, former Governor of Delta State on his 68th birth anniversary.”

He prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health and long life for the former governor as he celebrates his 68th birthday on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

“May your special day be filled with joy and pleasant memories. Congratulations,” Oborevwori said.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, Monday called on local and foreign investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s improved economic outlook, declaring that Delta State is strategically positioned to emerge as one of the country’s foremost investment destinations.

He said the Federal Government’s economic reforms continue to restore investor confidence.

Speaking at the opening of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, Shettima said the bold reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration had strengthened macroeconomic stability, improved Nigeria’s global credit profile and created the right environment for long-term investments.

He said: “Every state possesses immense promise with its unique history, geography, people and comparative advantage. This is the race we must welcome, a race in which states compete to create employment, prosperity and human dignity”.

According to him, increased federal allocations arising from ongoing fiscal reforms have empowered state governments to pursue ambitious development programmes, while recent upgrades by Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s reflected growing international confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

“These are proof that Nigeria is regaining credibility, and the best time to invest is now before the opportunity becomes expensive,” he added.

Shettima described Delta as a first-order investment destination, noting that beyond its oil wealth, the state’s deliberate commitment to economic diversification was its greatest strength.

He identified Delta’s strategic coastline, ports, natural gas reserves, refining assets, vast agricultural potential, blue economy opportunities and rich deposits of solid minerals as key assets capable of transforming the state into a major industrial and commercial hub.

Commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for convening the summit, Shettima said the Federal Government would continue working with sub-national governments to eliminate barriers to enterprise and support credible investments.

“We are co-travellers on the road from promise to production, from allocation to transformation, and from potential to prosperity,” he said.

Earlier in his address, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori announced that the state government had set aside US $100 million as Viability Gap Funding to de-risk strategic private sector investments, describing the initiative as a major step towards converting investment commitments into bankable projects.

He said the summit was conceived to move beyond discussions and deliver measurable investments capable of accelerating industrialisation, economic diversification and job creation.

Oborevwori explained that the initiative followed investment promotion missions undertaken by the state to China and Brazil in 2025, aimed at attracting strategic global partnerships.

The governor said Delta, with an estimated economy valued at about ₦17 trillion, remained one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations because of its abundant natural resources, improving infrastructure, sound fiscal management and investor-friendly policies.

He disclosed that the state had introduced tax incentives, including waivers on tenement rates, levies and other charges for up to five years, while establishing an Ease of Doing Business Council to simplify investment processes.

According to him, over 12,000 hectares of land have been earmarked for commercial agriculture, while the state’s 163-kilometre coastline road presents enormous opportunities in the blue economy.

Oborevwori also highlighted investment prospects in gas-fired power plants, renewable energy, solar farms and mini-grid infrastructure, assuring investors that Delta remained financially stable, secure and debt-free under his administration.

He noted that the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources had recognised Delta as Nigeria’s Safest State for Oil and Gas Investments in 2024.

In her keynote address, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, urged Delta State to leverage on global supply chain realignments, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Nigeria’s economic reforms to position itself as the country’s next industrial growth hub.

Saying that she is “a Delta State optimist”, she said the state’s natural gas reserves, seaports, rail connectivity, fertile agricultural land, skilled workforce and fiscal discipline placed it in a strong position to compete with established commercial centres.

Okonjo-Iweala advised the state government to concentrate investments in strategic sectors, including the Delta Special Economic Zone, agro-processing, blue economy, oil and gas value addition, marine logistics and digital infrastructure, while investing in artificial intelligence and digital connectivity to prepare young people for the future.

Also speaking, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, said Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals had improved considerably, noting that the country had moved from capital flight in 2023 to a more stable and predictable exchange rate environment in 2026.

He advocated stronger economic collaboration between Delta and Anambra States and urged governments to make investment promotion a continuous process rather than an occasional event.

Renowned Pan-Africanist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, challenged African governments and investors to have greater confidence in the continent’s economic potential, insisting that Africa possessed the resources, talent and entrepreneurial capacity to drive sustainable development.

He urged African investors to channel more investments into the continent, arguing that increased intra-African investment would accelerate industrialisation, create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign capital.

Minister of Finance, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, said the Tinubu administration’s reforms, including subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation, had significantly increased revenues available to states and local governments for development.

He described Delta as a natural powerhouse of the blue economy and encouraged investors to see both the state and Nigeria as leading investment destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Chairman of Transcorp Power Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, pledged the company’s readiness to partner with the Delta State Government to provide reliable electricity for industries and households across the state.

Similarly, Chief Executive Officer of Mosra Energy, Ramos Olukayode, disclosed that Delta possesses over 200 million tonnes of coal deposits in Obomkpa, Ukunzu and surrounding communities, while Chief Executive Officer UTM Gas Limited, Julius Rone, revealed that Delta State’s ₦42 billion investment for an eight per cent equity stake in the company in 2022 is now valued at about ₦200 billion.

Rone also announced that UTM Gas would establish its corporate headquarters in Warri when its operations commence fully in 2030, further strengthening Delta’s position as a major energy investment destination.