IT was a moment of celebration and gratitude on Wednesday as the Ijaw Nation rolled out the drums in honour of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, at a grand reception held in Bomadi.
Delivering the welcome address, Chairman of the Central Organising Committee (COC), Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, described the occasion as a “defining moment” for the Ijaw people, noting that the event was organised to appreciate the governor’s impactful leadership and developmental strides across riverine communities.
Solomon said the Oborevwori administration had transformed the narrative of the Ijaw terrain, which was once considered difficult to access and develop, stressing that the governor’s efforts had opened up the area for meaningful growth and infrastructure development.
He praised Oborevwori’s political journey, likening his rise to biblical Apostle Paul, and highlighted his record-breaking achievements, including emerging as a first-time legislator who became Speaker, the first Speaker to be re-elected, the longest-serving Speaker in the history of the Delta State House of Assembly, and the first legislator to rise to the position of governor in the state.
The committee chairman, speaking on behalf of the Ijaw Nation, warmly welcomed the governor and his entourage, alongside other dignitaries who graced the occasion.
Among those acknowledged was the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, described as the “Governor-General of the Ijaw Nation,” as well as traditional rulers, members of the National Assembly, state legislators, and other top government officials.
Solomon expressed deep appreciation to all attendees for identifying with the Ijaw Nation on what he described as a historic gathering, urging guests to enjoy their stay as the people celebrated what he termed a deserving leader.
The grand reception attracted a large crowd of political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across the Niger Delta, further underscoring the significance of the event in the region’s political landscape.
