IN recent years, the narrative surrounding Delta State has experienced a marked transformation. Central to this shift is Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whose administration has prioritized internal security at the core of its strategy for sustainable economic revitalization.
Recognizing that enduring development cannot flourish in an insecure environment, Governor Oborevwori has drawn a clear link between safety and prosperity, advancing a compelling model of security-driven economic growth.
Upon taking office, the governor intensified efforts to curb criminal activities, including cultism, kidnapping, and armed robbery. He made internal security a cornerstone of his administration’s MORE Agenda.
Acting swiftly on this priority, the Oborevwori administration increased funding for security agencies, donated over 60 operational vehicles, provided advanced surveillance equipment, and strengthened Delta State’s security architecture through strategic partnerships with federal agencies and community stakeholders. Key efforts included reinforcing the Delta State Security Outfit, Operation Delta Sweep, and scaling up community policing initiatives.
As security improved, confidence returned to the local economy. Entrepreneurs who once feared for their assets now feel secure expanding their operations. Communities previously hindered by criminal threats are seeing a revival in small-scale trade and agriculture. From Warri to Asaba, markets are thriving again, and industrial activity is gradually rebounding.
The government has also streamlined bureaucratic processes by digitizing several approval systems. Combined with a stable security environment, these reforms have created a more inviting atmosphere for both local and foreign investors.
Oborevwori’s efforts have led to a reduction in sabotage-related shutdowns and improved crude oil output directly translating into increased revenue for both the state and the nation.
Beyond enforcement, the Oborevwori administration understands that security is as much about opportunities as it is about law and order. Through youth empowerment programmes, vocational training, and small business grants, many at-risk youths are being steered away from crime and towards productive engagements. This dual-prong strategy addresses the root causes of insecurity, thus ensuring long-term stability.
Delta State’s improved security and its impact on economic development is drawing attention from neighbouring states. Oborevwori’s integrated approach marrying enforcement with empowerment has not only made Delta safer but also economically stronger.
Speaking while receiving participants of Senior Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, led by the Director of Coordination, Brigadier General Al-Hassan Grema, during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba, on Monday, Oborevwori, emphasized that strengthening internal security mechanisms was pivotal to fostering sustainable economic growth.
He noted that peace and safety attract investments and promote development across sectors, adding that his administration remained committed to creating a secure and business-friendly environment.
Maintaining that security was not only a social necessity but also an economic driver, he commended Brig. Gen. Grema for his long standing dedication to national peace and development, particularly recalling his outstanding service as a former Sector Commander in the state.
Speaking on the theme of the participants’ study tour, “Harnessing Grassroots Intelligence for Enhanced Internal Security”, the governor said; “it is highly relevant to Nigeria’s current security discourse.
“If well researched, it will offer practical solutions to emerging security challenges that have negatively impacted our GDP, in addition to the tragic loss of lives”.
Highlighting government’s strategic approach, Governor Oborevwori said his administration placed security and social stability at the forefront in line with his MORE Agenda.
He said: “Without prioritizing security, inclusive development would remain a mirage. The state recognizes the importance of intelligence-gathering in security management and has established several offices dedicated to coordinating this effort.”
He added that Delta State had maintained strong cooperation with the Federal Government by providing logistical support to various security agencies including the Police, Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The governor emphasized that the state’s regular security council meetings, involving heads of security agencies, underscore its proactive approach in addressing threats.
He expressed confidence that the visiting officers’ interactions with traditional rulers and field studies would provide useful insights and support the objectives of their research.
As the state continues to build on this momentum, there’s cautious optimism that Delta may yet become a model for balancing security and growth in Nigeria’s post-oil economy. Under Sheriff Oborevwori, the message is clear: where peace reigns, prosperity follows.
