Oborevwori reaffirms commitment to engaging Deltans, non-Indigenes in advancing devt.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to engaging with both Deltans and people of different ethnic nationalities resident in the state in its drive aimed at advancing sustainable development across the state.

Governor Oborevwori who was speaking at the inauguration of the Executive Committee of Delta State Middle Belt Forum held at the Cenotaph in Asaba, said his administration does not believe in segregation, pointing out that everybody is one in the state.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, High Chief Edwin Uzor, the Governor congratulated members of the newly inaugurated executive committee of the Middle Belt Forum in the state on their successful election.

He said “in Delta State, we do not differentiate among ourselves because we see everyone as one. This has been our tradition where unity and inclusiveness have been long upheld.

“To my people from the Middle Belt, I bring a message of hope and alignment with the current administration. This government is guided by the principles of the MORE Agenda which stands for Meaningful Development; Opportunities for All;

Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.

According to him, peace and security are fundamental to any meaningful progress, adding that without peace, development cannot take place, even as he said that his administration places great emphasis on maintaining peace across the state.

“I am pleased to be here today, and I want to acknowledge that the person recently elected as your chairman is someone we know well.

“He is someone who is working very hard and with great dedication. I encourage all of you to support him and to stand by him in his efforts, the Governor added, just as he urged youths in the state to avoid actions that are counterproductive or harmful to the collective progress of the state.

As leaders of today, not just tomorrow, Governor Oborevwori said, it is your responsibility to guide your peers and discourage behaviour that threatens our shared future.

In her remarks, the member representing Oshimili South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, congratulated members of the Forum for conducting a hitch-free election, and implored them to always abide by the laws of the state as well as those of the federal government of Nigeria.

“If you find the environment supportive and enabling, then it becomes even more important to work collaboratively with the state government and the local communities where you live and do your legitimate businesses. Together, we must ensure that peace and mutual respect continue to thrive in every corner of Delta State,” she added.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, who was represented by Prof. Leroy Edozien, enjoined the leadership of the Forum to broaden their network by engaging with other non-indigenous groups across the state so that Delta will truly become a microcosm of Nigeria, where all groups feel seen, heard, and valued.

“As we strive for inclusion and unity, let us continue to offer our full support to His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori as he leads the charge for good governance, effective governance, and inclusive governance in our beloved state.

“As your host, we remain committed to ensuring that Asaba remains not only welcoming, but one of the most habitable places on the planet,” the Asagba of Asaba said.

In his inaugural speech, the Chairman of Delta State Middle Belt Forum, Hon. Jimoh Ibrahim described Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to inclusive development as inspiring.

He reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to supporting Governor Oborevwori’s administration, saying that they are ready to contribute positively to his vision for Delta State.

Comrade Jimoh who is also, an SSA to the Governor on Non-Indigenes, said they were inspired by the Governor’s commitment to development and peace building.

“We are inspired by your commitment to development and peace building across all communities. You have shown in both words and actions that no group or people will be left behind in the progress of this State,” he added.

According to the SSA, his appointment marked a historic milestone, as the first son of the Middle Belt to serve in the government of Delta State, adding that the development was a testament to Governor Oborevwori’s commitment in advancing Delta State by embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in his government.