Innocent Ojefia Blog

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as a towering figure in Delta State’s contemporary political history, not merely for the offices he holds but for the depth of vision, inclusivity, and transformative impact that characterise his governance. As he marked his second anniversary in office on May 29, 2025, it was more than a routine commemoration. It was an affirmation of leadership deeply attuned to the challenges of a plural society and committed to the developmental aspirations of its people. The occasion, rich in both symbolism and substance, projected the image of a governor who has evolved from a regional political actor into a strategic leader of statewide and perhaps national relevance. A Steward of Political Harmony Perhaps Governor Oborevwori’s most underappreciated political feat is his ability to unify Delta State’s complex political geography under a common vision of progress. In a State historically marked by ethnic diversity, political rivalry, and shifting allegi...

As Delta State marks the second anniversary of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Oborevwori as Governor, it is a fitting moment to reflect on a leadership journey that has not only inspired hope but also delivered visible and measurable progress across the State. Two years ago, Governor Oborevwori took office with a clear vision encapsulated in his MORE Agenda. Today, that vision is unfolding in remarkable ways, touching lives and transforming communities in every corner of the State. A New Era of Inclusive Development ASABA - Under Governor Oborevwori’s watch, Delta State has entered a new era of inclusive and purposeful development. His leadership has prioritized infrastructure, education, healthcare, job creation, rural integration, and youth empowerment. Roads and bridges are no longer just projects on paper, they are now functional links connecting once-isolated communities and opening doors for commerce and social development. From the Trans-Warri Road and Bridges...

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State is undergoing a transformative phase, marked by renewed unity, integration, and a clear vision for the future. This momentum was evident during an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, in Ovwor, Ughelli South Local Government Area, at the residence of Chief John Oguma. The gathering brought together leaders and members from Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, signalling a reinvigorated APC, poised for greater impact. The meeting was a defining moment, showcasing the party’s commitment to cohesion and disciplined leadership. Stakeholders declared a new era for the APC, emphasizing unity and a shared purpose. “We are witnessing a paradigm shift; the APC in Delta State is stronger and more united than ever,” remarked Festus Agas, a former Secretary to the State Government. The event served as a clarion call for members to align with the party’s leadership and work collectively to elevate it...

On May 29, 2023, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori was sworn in as the fifth civilian governor of Delta State, Nigeria, following a decisive victory in the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial election.  The emergence of Sheriff Oborevwori reminded us that God does not follow trends. He sets them. That true leadership is not always found in the obvious. That sometimes, the one who carries the mantle is not the one the world expects, but the one heaven approves. His ascension to the governorship marked a historic milestone as the first Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly to become governor. With his MORE Agenda, Governor Oborevwori promised to build a Delta State that works for all through inclusive development, infrastructure growth, and human capital empowerment. As his administration reaches the two-year mark, it is necessary to look at his midterm performance: Infrastructure Development: Bridging Gaps, Connecting Communities One of the most visible and commend...

In an era where subnational debts spiral across Nigeria, Delta State is rewriting the fiscal playbook under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Through an aggressive debt reduction strategy and a commitment to transparent governance, the state has emerged as a national model for financial prudence and sustainable economic management. Official data from the Debt Management Office (DMO) reveals that Delta State’s debt profile has plummeted from a peak of N465 billion to N199.575 billion, marking the largest debt reduction among Nigeria’s 36 states. This translates to a repayment of N265.425 billion, leaving only 42.79 percent of the original debt outstanding. Such a feat underscores the governor’s commitment to fiscal discipline without compromising the state’s developmental agenda. Governor Oborevwori’s administration, which assumed office on May 29, 2023, inherited a substantial debt burden of N465 billion. By March 2024, the DMO confirmed this figure. Within a few months, by July 2024, the S...

On a rainy morning in Warri and surrounding communities, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, embarked on a thorough inspection tour of key infrastructure projects spanning several local government areas. This strategic initiative reflects his unwavering commitment to transformative governance under the MORE Agenda, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The governor’s inspection covered the landmark Trans Warri/Ode Itsekiri Road in Warri South LGA; the 612-metre Ayakoromor Bridge and its 3km approach road at Egbo-Ide/Ayakoromor in Ughelli South and Burutu LGAs; the vital 5.7km Olomoro-Igbide Road in Isoko South LGA; and Sector C1 of the ambitious Ughelli-Asaba Expressway. Each project underscores his administration’s resolve to bridge infrastructural gaps and enhance statewide connectivity. At the Trans Warri/Ode Itsekiri Road, executed by Setraco Nig. Ltd.— Governor Oborevwori expressed satis...

In leadership, it takes a rare blend of courage, humility, and integrity to acknowledge one’s mistakes, especially in the full glare of the public. Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa demonstrated these admirable qualities when he openly admitted, during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, that it became clear during the campaigns that southern Nigerians were resolute in their desire for a president from the South, a sentiment that was ultimately reflected in the outcome of the election. In a political culture where many leaders shy away from taking responsibility, Okowa’s public expression of regret, recognizing that his choice may have contradicted the wishes of his constituents in Delta State and indeed across Nigeria, stands out as a bold and commendable act. This admission is more than a personal gesture; it sends a powerful signal to the broader Nigerian political class that leadership must be anchored in accountability. By owning his misjudgment, Okowa has shown that tru...