HOW THE UNDERRATED GOVERNOR OBOREVWORI PROVED CRITICS WRONG

By Kparobo Ehvwubare

FROM DOUBT TO DISTINCTION

When Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori was sworn in as Governor of Delta State on May 29, 2023, expectations were mixed. Many admired his legislative pedigree, yet critics questioned whether a former Speaker could truly deliver transformational governance.

Two years on, the narrative has changed dramatically. Through focused leadership, fiscal discipline and people‑centred policies anchored on his M.O.R.E. Agenda (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, Enhanced Peace and Security), Governor Oborevwori has redefined performance, silenced skeptics and positioned Delta State as a model of pragmatic governance.

“Governor Oborevwori has shown that quiet leadership can deliver loud results.”

A ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE REVOLUTION

Across Delta State, roads are no longer symbols of neglect but of renewal. The Oborevwori administration has embarked on an aggressive infrastructure drive, linking communities, boosting commerce and opening up rural economies.

Landmark Flyover Bridges

Among the most iconic projects reshaping the state’s urban landscape are the flyover bridges at:

• PTI Junction, Effurun: easing the long‑standing traffic bottleneck on the Warri–Effurun axis.
• Enerhen Junction, Warri: unlocking smoother connectivity for commuters and businesses.
• Otovwodo–Ughelli Flyover:  would restore Ughelli as a major commercial hub.
• Agbor Flyover:  would transform traffic flow along the Asaba–Benin corridor upon completion.

These projects have drastically reduced travel time, improved safety and stimulated economic activity.

“For the first time in decades, Delta’s roads tell a story of hope, not hardship.”

Linking Communities, Unlocking Growth

Beyond the cities, strategic link roads and bridges now connect once‑isolated communities across the three senatorial districts, ensuring farmers, traders and students move with ease and dignity. From riverine areas to agrarian belts, infrastructure is driving inclusion.

HONOURING TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS, STRENGTHENING THE CUSTODIANS OF CULTURE

Governor Oborevwori understands that development thrives where tradition is respected. In a bold show of support for grassroots leadership, his administration procured brand‑new utility jeeps for sixty‑five traditional rulers across the state.

This intervention has enhanced their mobility, strengthened community engagement and reaffirmed the place of traditional institutions as partners in governance.

“Our traditional rulers are not relics of the past; they are pillars of our progress.”

URBAN RENEWAL: BUILDING LIVABLE CITIES

From Asaba to Warri, Ughelli to Sapele, Delta’s cities are experiencing a renaissance. Road expansions, drainage systems, street lighting and market upgrades are redefining urban life, reducing flooding and restoring investor confidence.

The governor’s urban renewal programme is not just about concrete; it is about dignity, safety and opportunity for ordinary citizens.

HEALTHCARE: A SYSTEM THAT HEALS

Healthcare has received unprecedented attention under Governor Oborevwori. Primary healthcare centres have been renovated and equipped, while specialist hospitals now boast modern diagnostic tools.

Through the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme, millions of residents now access affordable, quality healthcare – saving lives and restoring trust in public hospitals.

“A healthy Delta is a productive Delta.”

EDUCATION & HUMAN CAPITAL: INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

Recognising that people are Delta’s greatest asset, the Oborevwori administration has invested heavily in education and skills development.

• Over ₦1 billion in bursaries and scholarships for students.
• Recruitment and training of teachers.
• Renovation of schools, technical colleges and ICT centres.

Beyond classrooms, empowerment programmes, micro‑grants and skills acquisition schemes have lifted thousands of youths and women into productive enterprise.

STRONG INSTITUTIONS: SYNERGY WITH LEGISLATURE AND JUDICIARY

A defining strength of this administration is its robust relationship with the Delta State House of Assembly and the Judiciary. Mutual respect and collaboration have ensured swift passage of people‑oriented laws and modernization of court infrastructure, strengthening democracy and justice delivery.

FISCAL DISCIPLINE: DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT DEBT

In an era when many states rely on heavy borrowing, Governor Oborevwori has charted a different path. Despite massive development strides, Delta State has not borrowed a single kobo under his watch.

Through prudent financial management and improved internally generated revenue, the administration is reducing the state’s debt burden while still delivering transformative projects. “Mortgaging the future of unborn Deltans for today’s development is not Oborevweri ideology.”

THE RISE OF AN UNDERRATED LEADER

Once underestimated, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as a quiet achiever with loud results. His legacy is being written in roads and bridges, in classrooms and hospitals, in empowered youths and respected traditions.

Delta State today stands more connected, healthier, educated and financially stable, a testament that true leadership is not about noise, but about impact.

Kparobo Ehvwubare is a journalist and good governance advocate writes from Oghara-Delta State. Could be reached on omeafrica3@gmail.com.