By Evelyn Obibi -Assay, Igho Ejememo
The Media has been urged to continue to play its critical role as watchdog and bridge builder between the government and the citizens, promoting accountability and good governance.
The remark was made today, by the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at the 12th Annual Conference/ AGM of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria.
Theme, “Corruption, Governance, And Media in Nigeria”, the event held at Effurun, with the governor pledging to remain transparent in his leadership.
Represented by the Executive Director, Projects, on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Gov Oborevwori said, Delta State Government had recorded a significant reduction in domestic debt, from N465.4 billion to N 204.7 billion, representing a 55% decrease, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and justice.
Okorodudu said, “I’m honored to represent Gov Sheriff Oborevwori, at this conference on corruption, governance and the media. Without doubt, there is no better time and occasion to reveal the pragmatic and well-intentioned policies of the Sheriff Oborevwori – led administration.
“I am also proud to share the remarkable achievements of Governor Oborevwori’s administration, which have remained deeply committed to transparency and accountability. This is governance rooted in accountability, openness and progressive debt reduction.
“I’m pleased to report that Delta State domestic debt has dropped from N 465.40 billion in June 2023 to N 204.72 billion as of March 2025. A staggering reduction of over 55%. This did not happen by accident, it is the result of deliberate cost – cutting measures, strategic debt management, and a committed long- term economic sustainability,” Dr. Okorodudu said.
While highlighting the State’s achievements further, he said the State had also prioritized clean energy, sanitation and waste – to wealth initiatives with plans to establish the Delta Electricity Commission and Delta Rural Electrification Agency and praised Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, noting that Delta State has become Nigeria’s fourth – largest economy due to investments in urban and rural areas.
Earlier, the National President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, ACSPN, Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji, in his welcome address had said the conference aimed to address the multifaceted issue of corruption and its impact on Nigeria’s development and highlighted the association’s objectives to include interdisciplinary research, policy advocacy and knowledge exchange while appreciating Governor Oborevwori’s support and praising Delta State’s hosting of the event.
Some keynote speakers at the event include, Prof. Richard Ikiebe; Mr. Ola Olukayode, Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and Prof. Ayobami Oyebode, Lead Speaker.
Highpoint of the event was the presentation of Certificates of recognition and outstanding performances to some Organizations and Personalities, who have contributed to the growth of the Nation.
Present during the ceremony were Prof. G. G. Darah; Prof. Abigail Ogweze Ndisika; Prof. E. M Mojaye and Dr. Fred Latimore, DG, Bureau of Communication, Delta State.
