Oborevwori Honoured At Debut Warri Film Festival For Transforming Creative Sector

By PAULINA NZERUBE

DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has received an Award of Excellence at the maiden edition of the Warri International Film Festival, a recognition of his growing influence on Nollywood and his ongoing renewal of Warri’s cultural and economic landscape.

The inaugural ceremony, which assembled leading filmmakers, cultural advocates and policymakers, celebrated the Governor’s investments in infrastructure, urban regeneration and policies designed to expand the creative economy. Other recipients included Warri Federal Constituency lawmaker Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi and Warri South Council Chairman Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro.

Representing the Governor, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the award reflects Oborevwori’s vision to reposition Warri as a thriving commercial and cultural hub. He noted that upgrades in security, sanitation, road networks and socioeconomic empowerment are already opening new spaces for filmmakers and entertainers.

Agbateyiniro disclosed that a film village is scheduled for development in Warri in 2026 to strengthen the city’s appeal as a creative hub. Festival founder and veteran filmmaker, Alex Eyengho, hailed the Governor as a “visionary leader” whose policies are nurturing artistic freedom and driving cinematic growth.

Debuting this year, the festival aims to spotlight local and international films, build capacity for emerging filmmakers and re-establish Warri as a vibrant cultural hotspot. Oborevwori’s recognition drew applause from participants who credited his administration for stimulating jobs, boosting investor confidence and supporting Delta’s wider creative renaissance.