By Our Correspondent
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for visionary, competent and selfless leadership as a critical requirement for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring that democratic institutions deliver meaningful development to citizens.
Oborevwori said strong institutions could only thrive when led by individuals with integrity, character, competence and patriotism.
The governor made the remarks on Thursday at the inaugural Professor Sam Oyovbaire Public Service Lecture, held at the main auditorium of Southern Delta University, Orerokpe Campus.
The lecture was organised in honour of Professor Sam Oyovbaire, a renowned political scientist and former Minister of Information, in recognition of his contributions to scholarship, public service and national development.
Represented at the event by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Governor Oborevwori described the establishment of the annual lecture series as a fitting tribute to Oyovbaire’s enduring legacy in academia and public service.
“I congratulate Southern Delta University for instituting this lecture series to celebrate a man whose scholarship and public service have enriched our democratic journey,” Oborevwori said.
The governor noted that Professor Oyovbaire had distinguished himself through intellectual excellence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to nation-building.
According to him, Oyovbaire’s body of work has contributed significantly to national understanding of democracy, governance and federalism, while inspiring generations of scholars and public servants.
‘Institutions Need Leaders of Character’
Oborevwori described the theme of the inaugural lecture, “Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament,” as timely and thought-provoking.
He said the theme underscored the central role of leadership in determining the effectiveness of democratic institutions and governance systems.
The governor maintained that no system of government could achieve its full potential without capable leaders who possess a clear vision and remain committed to the common good.
“Strong institutions are important, but they can only flourish when guided by men and women of character, competence and patriotism,” he said.
He stressed that Nigeria’s democratic development required leaders capable of transforming institutional frameworks into practical outcomes that improve the lives of citizens.
Oborevwori Reaffirms Commitment to Good Governance
The Delta governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, inclusive development and policies designed to improve the welfare of residents through the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda.
He said the state government had continued to demonstrate that purposeful leadership, prudent management of public resources and effective collaboration were essential ingredients for sustainable development.
According to him, meaningful progress requires a combination of sound policies, responsible leadership and cooperation among stakeholders.
Oborevwori urged participants at the lecture to actively engage with the issues raised and ensure that the ideas generated during the intellectual gathering were translated into practical solutions.
He said such solutions should contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, improving governance and advancing national development.
The governor congratulated Professor Oyovbaire on the honour and commended the management of Southern Delta University for establishing the annual lecture series.
He described the initiative as laudable, saying it would promote intellectual discourse while creating a platform for deeper reflection on Nigeria’s democratic and governance challenges.
The event attracted members of the Delta State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, senior government officials, academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other distinguished guests.
