By Unue Emeka,
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his commitment to selfless service, inclusive governance, and sustainable development, declaring that he did not seek public office for personal enrichment but to improve the lives of Deltans across all ethnic, religious, and political divides.
The governor made the declaration on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of Catholic priests from the Warri, Issele-Uku, and Bomadi dioceses led by Rev. Monsignor John Ike Aduba at Government House, Asaba.
Speaking during the visit, Oborevwori said his administration remained firmly committed to prudent resource management, infrastructural development, human capital advancement, and the promotion of peace and unity across Delta State.
"I did not become governor to enrich myself. I became governor to serve. I am already comfortable. My passion is the work and improving the lives of our people. By God's grace, when I leave office in 2031, there will be tangible achievements to point to," the governor stated.
He attributed the successes recorded by his administration to divine guidance and the prayers of the people, particularly the clergy, whom he praised for their unwavering support and commitment to good governance.
"The Bible enjoins us to pray for those in authority so that they may govern well. If people say today that I am doing well, it is because of the prayers being offered on my behalf. God has given us the strength and wisdom to serve the people of Delta State," he said.
Oborevwori commended the Catholic Church for its responsible engagement in public affairs, noting that the clergy had consistently provided constructive advice and guidance through appropriate channels.
The governor emphasized that his administration was guided by the fear of God and a determination to ensure that every community benefits from government policies and programmes.
Reiterating his philosophy of inclusive governance, Oborevwori stressed that he remains governor to all Deltans regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.
"Delta State is blessed with diverse ethnic nationalities, and the only way to govern successfully is to ensure that every group has a sense of belonging. If a government is not inclusive, it cannot enjoy the trust and support of the people.
"I am not governor for any particular ethnic group; I am governor for all Deltans. Everything we have done has been guided by the principle of inclusiveness," he said.
On the state's finances, the governor disclosed that his administration had maintained strict fiscal discipline, ensuring prompt payment of workers' salaries and contractors without borrowing.
"Every project we award has financial backing. From the day I assumed office, I made it clear that any contractor engaged by this administration would be paid for work duly executed. We have been able to pay workers and contractors without borrowing, and that is by the grace of God," he stated.
Addressing recent tensions over the Warri Federal Constituency ward delineation exercise, Oborevwori revealed that he had convened meetings involving Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo leaders to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
"We have witnessed crises in Warri in the past, and we do not want a return to those difficult days. There is no reason for conflict. We must continue to embrace peaceful coexistence, and I am glad that all parties have shown understanding," he said.
The governor also assured the delegation that his administration would continue supporting mission-owned schools and other faith-based initiatives contributing to societal development. He disclosed that the government would examine requests relating to the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre at Oleri in Udu Local Government Area, including the possibility of constructing an access road to the facility.
Earlier, Very Rev. Prof. Jude Obiunu, speaking on behalf of the delegation, lauded Oborevwori for promoting equitable development across the state and for carrying all ethnic groups along in governance.
"The Church desires good governance and the delivery of the dividends of democracy to all people. From what we have seen, you are not a sectional or tribal-minded governor. Your projects and programmes have touched every nook and cranny of Delta State," Obiunu said.
He assured the governor of the Catholic Church's continued prayers and support while appealing for sustained government intervention in mission schools and improved infrastructure, including access roads and security lighting around the Catholic Pilgrimage Centre at Oleri.
The visit concluded with special prayers offered by the clergy for Governor Oborevwori, Delta State, and the nation.
