Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that Nigeria’s democracy can only be strengthened through visionary, competent and selfless leadership, stressing that strong institutions will flourish only when guided by men and women of integrity, character and patriotism.
The governor made the assertion on Thursday at the inaugural Professor Sam Oyovbaire Public Service Lecture held at the main auditorium of Southern Delta University, Orerokpe Campus, where he paid glowing tribute to the renowned political scientist and former Minister of Information for his immense contributions to scholarship and national development.
Represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Oborevwori described the establishment of the annual lecture series as a fitting recognition of Professor Oyovbaire’s enduring legacy in academia and public service.
“I congratulate Southern Delta University for instituting this lecture series to celebrate a man whose scholarship and public service have enriched our democratic journey,” the governor said.
He noted that Professor Oyovbaire had distinguished himself through intellectual excellence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to nation-building, adding that his scholarly works had enriched national discourse on democracy, governance and federalism while inspiring generations of academics and public servants.
Speaking on the lecture’s theme, “Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament,” Oborevwori described it as timely and thought-provoking, saying it highlighted the indispensable role of leadership in the success of democratic institutions.
According to him, no system of government can succeed without capable and visionary leaders who are genuinely committed to the common good.
“Strong institutions are important, but they can only flourish when guided by men and women of character, competence and patriotism,” he stated.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, inclusive development and policies aimed at improving the welfare of Deltans through the implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda.
He said the Delta State Government had continued to demonstrate that purposeful leadership, prudent management of public resources and effective collaboration remained essential ingredients for sustainable development and meaningful progress.
Oborevwori also urged participants at the lecture to actively engage in discussions and translate the ideas generated into practical solutions capable of strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and advancing national development.
He congratulated Professor Oyovbaire on the honour bestowed on him and commended the management of Southern Delta University for institutionalising the lecture series, describing the initiative as a valuable platform for promoting intellectual discourse and contributing to the country’s democratic development.
The event attracted members of the Delta State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, senior government officials, academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other distinguished guests.
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