Oborevwori Bags CCDI Leadership Award, Dedicates Honour To Deltans
CCDI Honours Oborevwori for Democratic Leadership
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been conferred with the Leadership Action Award by the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) in recognition of his administration’s commitment to peace, justice, and institutional strengthening.
The award, presented at a ceremony in Asaba on Friday, acknowledged the state government’s contributions toward advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori described the honour as an affirmation of his administration’s governance philosophy rooted in due process, accountability, and equity.
‘Justice Is the Oxygen of Democracy’
In his acceptance remarks, the governor emphasized the centrality of justice and peace to sustainable development.
“Justice is the oxygen of democracy; peace is the infrastructure of trust,” he stated. “Progress cannot endure without strong institutions, the rule of law, and the equity that sustains peace.”
He noted that recognition from a body committed to safeguarding democratic integrity reinforced his administration’s chosen path — one that prioritises transparency and institutional reform as drivers of meaningful development.
The governor linked the award to Delta State’s MORE Agenda — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security — stressing that peace and security remain prerequisites for growth.
“Without peace, opportunities diminish; without security, development falters,” he said, dedicating the recognition to members of his administration and the people of Delta State.
He described the award not as an endpoint but as “a call to greater duty.”
International Endorsement of Delta’s Reforms
Speaking at the ceremony, Comrade Olufemi Aduwo, President of the Rights Monitoring Group (RMG) and United States Permanent Representative of CCDI to the United Nations, said the award represents a foremost global recognition for excellence in public service.
According to him, Governor Oborevwori has recorded notable strides in strengthening public institutions, improving citizen security, deepening community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, and expanding access to justice.
On the sidelines of the event, Prof. Oluyemisi Akinyemiju said periodic assessments by the organisation revealed measurable progress in Delta compared to other states visited.
“Each time we visit Delta State, we assess areas previously identified for improvement. This recognition is both an honour and a responsibility to sustain the positive trajectory,” she said.
A Call to Sustain Democratic Gains
The ceremony attracted top government functionaries and stakeholders, underscoring the significance of the recognition.
For the Delta State Government, the award signals growing national and international validation of its democratic and institutional reforms. For Governor Oborevwori, it represents both acknowledgment and renewed obligation to consolidate peace, justice, and good governance across the state.
