By Evelyn Obibi-Assay, Igho Ejememo,
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has urged the Nigerian media to remain steadfast as watchdog and bridge builder between government and citizens, even as he pledged continued transparency in his administration.
Speaking at the 12th Annual Conference and AGM of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in Effurun, Oborevwori—represented by Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Executive Director, Projects, DESOPADEC— reeled out his government’s achievements, including a 55 percent reduction of the state’s domestic debt from ₦465.4 billion in June 2023 to ₦204.7 billion by March 2025.
“This is governance rooted in accountability, openness and progressive debt reduction. A staggering reduction of over 55% did not happen by accident. It is the result of deliberate cost-cutting measures, strategic debt management, and a committed long-term economic sustainability plan,” Okorodudu said on behalf of the governor.
Oborevwori further highlighted reforms in clean energy, sanitation, and waste-to-wealth initiatives, alongside plans to establish the Delta Electricity Commission and Delta Rural Electrification Agency. He noted that Delta has emerged as Nigeria’s fourth-largest economy, attributing it to targeted rural and urban investments.
While pledging to sustain transparency and openness, the governor appealed to the media to strengthen its watchdog role in promoting accountability and good governance.
Earlier, ACSPN National President, Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji, said the conference theme, “Corruption, Governance and the Media in Nigeria,” was designed to interrogate the role of communication in tackling corruption and advancing Nigeria’s development.
The event featured keynote addresses by Prof. Richard Ikiebe, EFCC Chairman Mr. Ola Olukayode, and Prof. Ayobami Oyebode. Highlights included recognition awards to outstanding individuals and institutions.
