Oborevwori Advocates Ethical Leadership At Oyovbaire Public Lecture
By AUGUSTINA McSOLOMON-OGHAKPERUO
Oborevwori Advocates Leadership Driven by Integrity
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for visionary, competent and selfless leadership to consolidate Nigeria’s democracy. He said democratic institutions can only achieve their purpose when led by individuals who possess integrity, patriotism and a genuine commitment to public service.
The governor made the call on Thursday at the inaugural Professor Sam Oyovbaire Public Service Lecture held at the Southern Delta University, Orerokpe Campus.
Represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Oborevwori described the annual lecture series as a worthy recognition of Professor Sam Oyovbaire’s enduring contributions to scholarship, governance and national development.
Tribute to a Distinguished Scholar
Governor Oborevwori praised Professor Oyovbaire for his decades of service to Nigeria’s academic and public sectors.
He said the respected political scientist and former Minister of Information had consistently demonstrated intellectual excellence, integrity and commitment to nation-building.
According to the governor, Oyovbaire’s scholarly works have enriched national conversations on democracy, federalism and governance while inspiring generations of academics, public servants and political leaders.
Leadership Remains the Key to Strong Institutions
Speaking on the lecture’s theme, “Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament,” the governor described it as both timely and relevant.
He noted that institutions alone cannot guarantee democratic success.
According to him, leadership remains the determining factor in whether institutions succeed or fail.
He stressed that capable leaders with sound character, competence and patriotism remain indispensable to sustainable democratic governance.
Commitment to Good Governance
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accountable governance through the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda.
He said prudent resource management, inclusive policies and effective collaboration have remained central to his government’s development strategy.
The governor maintained that purposeful leadership is essential for delivering tangible benefits to citizens and ensuring long-term socio-economic progress.
University Commended for Intellectual Initiative
The governor applauded the management of Southern Delta University for institutionalising the annual lecture in honour of Professor Oyovbaire.
He described the initiative as an important platform for promoting intellectual engagement and generating ideas capable of strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in the discussions and translate the ideas into practical solutions for national development.
The event attracted members of the Delta State House of Assembly, State Executive Council members, Vice Chancellor Professor Sunny Awhefeada, senior government officials, academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other distinguished guests.
