Oborevwori calls for fair tax Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, has called for fair and transparent tax reforms to alleviate economic hardship and support national development.
The governor made the remarks during the 2025 Press Week organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta Council, on Thursday in Asaba.
Represented at the event by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Governor Oborevwori emphasised that taxation remained the backbone of government revenue and a vital instrument for providing critical infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
“Without effective tax regimes, no government can sustainably meet the needs of its citizens, stressing that taxation “must be fair, transparent, and growth-oriented.”
He warned that complex or overlapping tax structures deter investment, while weak enforcement undermines development.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to broadening the tax base, minimizing leakages, and ensuring that every naira collected is judiciously invested in the welfare of citizens.
He also highlighted the recent unification of exchange rates as a bold step toward stabilizing the currency, attracting foreign investment, and correcting distortions in the foreign exchange market.
Acknowledging potential short-term challenges, including inflationary pressures, Oborevwori insisted that the long-term benefits, such as enhanced investor confidence and competitiveness for Nigerian businesses, outweigh immediate hurdles.
“For states like Delta, with vibrant oil, gas, and agricultural sectors, stable exchange rates are crucial to unlocking export potential and driving economic diversification,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori further emphasized the central role of the media in shaping public understanding of economic reforms.
He urged journalists to educate the public, monitor government policies, highlight stories of resilience, and combat misinformation.
“Fake or misleading news can inflame tensions, destabilize communities, and undermine confidence in national institutions. Great influence comes with solemn responsibility,” he warned.
The keynote speaker, Senator representing Delta South, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, echoed the importance of tax reforms and exchange rate unification as key pillars of President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda.
Represented by Mr. Uzuazo Ikelegbe, Thomas described these reforms as “strategic actions that rebuild an economy that works for all.”
Earlier, the Delta NUJ chairman, Mr. Churchill Oyowe, praised the theme of the event for provoking thought and inspiring policy conversations.
He lauded Governor Oborevwori’s administration for supporting press freedom, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance under the M.O.R.E. Agenda, noting the government’s investment in people-oriented projects across the state.
The Press Week highlighted the symbiotic relationship between government and media, emphasizing the role of journalism in empowering citizens with accurate and actionable information.
