Delta State Governorship Contest: Why Oborevwori Should Continue Till 2031

When Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori took the oath of office on May 29, 2023, Delta State entered a new era of purposeful leadership. In less than two years, his vision, humility, and determination have reshaped the governance landscape. His MORE Agenda—Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—have moved beyond a campaign promise to become the heartbeat of a government that works for all Deltans.

From Asaba to Warri, from Agbor to Bomadi, from Ughelli to Ndokwa land, the presence of good governance is visible. Markets are thriving, roads are opening up communities, peace is being nurtured, and young people are being empowered. Governor Oborevwori has proven that leadership is not about noise making but about achieving results. His achievements already speak louder than any political slogan.

Today, Deltans face an important question—how can we sustain this momentum? The answer is simple: continuity till 2031. True development takes time, and the ongoing transformation of Delta State deserves the opportunity to mature and expand under the same steady hands that began it.

*Transforming Delta’s Infrastructure*

Governor Oborevwori has redefined infrastructure development in Delta. His ₦78 billion Warri–Effurun flyover and road expansion project, handled by Julius Berger, remains the largest urban renewal project in the state’s history. The multi-flyover network and interchanges when completed will reduce traffic congestion, enhanced business activity, and are turning the Warri–Effurun axis into a modern economic hub.

Building on this success, the governor recently awarded contracts for the construction of new flyovers in Ughelli and Agbor. These new projects will further decentralize development, easing traffic and boosting trade in Delta Central and Delta North. The Ughelli flyover will decongest one of the busiest junctions in the state, while the Agbor flyover will improve transportation within the old Midwest corridor.

Across the state, over 1,500 kilometers of roads and strategic bridges like Beneku and Ayakoromo are either completed or near completion. The decentralization of the Ministry of Works into two—Urban and Rural Roads—has ensured that both cities and riverine communities receive equal attention. The Trans-Warri bridges, once a dream, are fast becoming a reality connecting riverine towns to the mainland.

*Education and Youth Empowerment*

Education has been a cornerstone of the Oborevwori administration. From primary to tertiary level, reforms and investments are reshaping the sector. The expansion of Delta State University’s health sciences programs and the ongoing construction of the College of Health Technology at Ovrode highlight his focus on preparing Delta youths for the future.

Thousands of teachers have been recruited, classrooms rehabilitated, and bursary programs revived. Beyond formal education, vocational training and entrepreneurship programs continue to empower young people across the state. The governor’s vision is clear—education must not only enlighten the mind but also equip it with practical skills for survival and prosperity.

*Healthcare and Social Welfare*

Delta State’s healthcare system is experiencing a quiet revolution. Hospitals are being modernized with diagnostic facilities, rural healthcare centers are being revived, and new ones are springing up in underserved areas. The expansion of the Drug Revolving Fund has improved access to essential medicines, while maternal and child health initiatives continue to save lives.

The administration’s social empowerment programs—D-CARES, WESAP, and microcredit schemes—have placed thousands of families on the path of self-sufficiency. These programs combine health, livelihood, and welfare support, ensuring that no community is left behind in the governor’s drive for inclusive growth.

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Economic Prudence and Fiscal Responsibility*

Governor Oborevwori’s fiscal management stands out as a model of prudence. Under his leadership, internally generated revenue has grown significantly without imposing additional burdens on the people. He has reduced inherited debts and improved transparency in public finance management.

His decision to increase the minimum wage to ₦77,500—one of the highest in the nation—reflects a deep commitment to the welfare of workers. Salaries and pensions are paid promptly, a mark of respect for public servants and retirees. Through fiscal discipline and smart partnerships, Delta’s economy remains one of Nigeria’s most resilient and diversified at the subnational level.

*Peace, Security, and Justice*

The peace Delta State enjoys today is the result of deliberate and inclusive leadership. Governor Oborevwori has strengthened community-based security networks, supported law enforcement, and invested in intelligence-driven policing. His creation of the Delta State Peace-Building Council has helped resolve long-standing communal disputes and fostered unity across ethnic lines.

Judicial reforms have also received attention. The new High Court Complex in Asaba, equipped with e-filing and digital case management systems, is a bold step toward an efficient and transparent justice system. This peaceful and law-abiding environment is now attracting investors, creating jobs, and boosting economic confidence.

*Why Continuity Till 2031 Matters*

Development is a journey, not an event. The projects currently transforming Delta cannot be completed within a single term. Interrupting this trajectory in 2027 would mean halting progress, risking abandoned projects, and reversing the gains already achieved.

Continuity till 2031 will enable Governor Oborevwori to complete the Warri–Effurun modernization project, the Ughelli and Agbor flyovers, and the Trans-Warri bridges. It will allow him to expand healthcare and education reforms, deepen youth empowerment initiatives, and strengthen the culture of peace and fiscal accountability.

Delta needs a steady hand—one that understands its complexities, respects its diversity, and is trusted by its people. Sheriff Oborevwori has proven to be that hand: firm, compassionate, and visionary.

*A Personal Appeal for Edjeba*

As the Immediate Past President-General of Edjeba Community in Agbarha Warri Kingdom, I proudly affirm our community’s loyalty and unwavering support for the governor. Edjeba stood solidly by him during the last election because we believed in his sincerity and his capacity to deliver.

It is in this spirit of faith and partnership that I appeal to the governor to consider the construction of Peter Kings/Shepard Clinic Road in Edjeba Community. This strategic road, linking major parts of the community, including Hilltop School, is vital for local commerce and daily movement. Its construction will not only transform Edjeba but will also stand as a symbol of inclusiveness and gratitude to a people who have stood firmly with their governor.

*Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Continuity*

Governor Sheriff F. Oborevwori has proven himself as a people’s governor—accessible, compassionate, and focused on results. His administration has restored confidence in leadership and rekindled hope in Delta’s future. The progress achieved so far must not be interrupted; it must be consolidated.

Continuity till 2031 is about stability, sustainability, and shared prosperity. It is about giving Delta the time and leadership required to complete the journey already begun. It is about rewarding competence, trust, and vision.

As Deltans, we must speak with one voice—across party lines, across tribes, across generations—and declare with conviction: Let the good work continue. Let the vision endure. Let Sheriff Oborevwori lead till 2031.
By
Deacon Ejiro Ibuakevwe. The immediate past president – general Edjeba Community, Warri South Local Government Area