BY SAM DUVWODE
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was yesterday honoured with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) Leadership Action Award by the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) in recognition of his administration’s commitment to peace, justice, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
The award ceremony, held in Asaba, highlighted the Governor’s significant contributions toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Receiving the award, Governor Oborevwori who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the recognition as a validation of his administration’s governance model, which prioritizes due process and accountability as catalysts for genuine development.
The Governor said: “Justice is the oxygen of democracy; peace is the infrastructure of trust. This recognition reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions, the rule of law, and the equity that sustains peace.
“To be recognized by an institution so firmly committed to advancing democratic values and safeguarding integrity is not just a personal honour; it is a validation of the path we have chosen in governance, a path anchored in due process, accountability, and the unwavering belief that peace and justice are the bedrock of true development.
“This recognition of our contributions to Sustainable Development Goal 16 reaffirms that progress cannot endure without strong institutions.
“This award aligns with our MORE Agenda: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. Without peace, opportunities diminish; without security, development falters and I dedicate this recognition to our hardworking team and the resilient people of Delta State, whose collective commitment turns vision into reality.
”This award is not a destination but a call to greater duty”.
Earlier, President of the Rights Monitoring Group (RMG) and United States Permanent Representative of Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) to the United Nations, Comrade Olufemi Aduwo, stated that the award is a foremost global recognition for excellence in public service. According to him; “Governor Oborevwori has recorded remarkable progress in the strengthening of public institutions, enhanced citizen security, deepened community-centered conflict resolution mechanisms, and widened access to justice across Delta State,” he said.
Speaking on the side-line of the ceremony, Prof. Oluyemisi Akinyemiju, said; “each time we visit Delta State, we take time to assess the progress made in areas we previously identified.
“We compared the progress of this state with others we visited. I see this recognition as both an honour and a call to the state government to continue their positive efforts.”
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Road) and Public Information, Hon. Charles Aniagwu while fielding questions from news men said; “We give God the glory for the numerous recognitions that our State has been receiving from different quarters. This particular award, coming from an agency that has a relationship with the United Nations, is not something we take for granted.” “Not only is this because of the calibre of individuals who are members of this organization, but also because of the key areas they have identified. When you talk about building institutions and addressing issues of security, you are speaking about proactive governance.”
“Therefore, when the Centre for Convention on Democratic Institutions recognizes you among many states, you understand that this is not just one of those awards given casually or based on personal connections.”
“They carefully examined the projects, procedures, policies, and programs of the Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration and identified significant improvements in key sectors, particularly in the area of institutional development.”
“We give God the glory, and at the same time, we are inspired to work even harder. As the governor rightly stated in his remarks, we are not yet where we desire to be. Even as we receive awards, we remain committed to doing more, so that more people will recognize that real progress is taking place in Delta State.”
The ceremony was attended by top government functionaries.
