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(Being Chairman’s speech at the Information Chapel Press Week
Theme: Roles of Information Officers as Pace Setters in the Actualization of the M.O.R.E. Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.)

By Dr. Festus G. Okubor

Distinguished guests, esteemed members of the Information Chapel, ladies and gentlemen,

It is with great pleasure that I address you today on the occasion of the Information Chapel Press Week. This gathering is not only a celebration of your noble profession but also a reflection of the vital role you play in advancing the M.O.R.E. agenda of His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The M.O.R.E. agenda—Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—is a visionary blueprint aimed at transforming Delta State into a hub of inclusive growth, and sustainable development. To realize this vision, information officers must be at the forefront as pace setters, effectively communicating the policies, achievements, and aspirations of the government to the people.

As information officers, you serve as the bridge between governance and the citizenry. Your roles extend beyond disseminating news; you are storytellers, educators, and advocates for transparency. Through your expertise, the achievements of the administration are amplified, misconceptions are clarified, and public trust is nurtured. Consider the Ogbor Bridge area of Ogwashi Uku – Ughelli road. Our younger generations may not recall its past state. Your storytelling of this project will help deepen their appreciation of the great work the Governor has done there.

In this digital age, where misinformation spreads rapidly, your responsibilities are even more critical. You must harness the power of technology to provide accurate, timely, and engaging information. For instance, you could have taken the lead in
emphatically clarifying that H.E. is not transitioning to the APC or leaving the PDP. Every Chief Executive has the primary duty to move around and build important and sustenable bridges for the good of his organisation or State. The cordial relationship between our Governor and President Tinubu has already yielded significant dividends, such as the reactivation of the Warri refinery and the establisment of an Aviation School in Osubi, and will yet yield more dividends, in furtherance of the M.O.R.E agenda. By effectively communicating these successes, you contribute to an informed and united society, one that is aligned with the M.O.R.E. agenda’s goals.

I urge you to embrace professionalism, creativity, and ethical journalism in all your endeavours. Be proactive in identifying key issues, telling the Delta story, and showcasing the progress made under Governor Oborevwori’s administration. For example, contractors are not being hounded but are encouraged to ensure quality in project execution. The transformation of Warri’s landscape is a phenomenal development. What stories or features are you crafting around this?
Let us also remember the importance of collaboration with government officials, community leaders, and the media—to ensure that every voice is heard and every milestone is celebrated.

As we celebrate this Press Week, let it serve as a reminder of the power of information in shaping perceptions, influencing decisions, and driving development. I suspect that that you invited me to Chair this event in recognition of my past experiences as National Publicity Secretary of Grassroot Democratic Movement (GDM), HC Information, DOP, COS, and CSG to two Governors. In the process, I developed SELF ESTEEM, which is crucial for personal growth. When you achieve that, you will be empowered to confidently proclaim
as I do, that “Sheriff is the very best Governor that Delta State has ever had” and together, we can ensure that the M.O.R.E. agenda becomes a reality for every Deltan.

Thank you, and may this event inspire us all to rededicate ourselves to the noble cause of public service through effective information management.

God bless Delta State, and God bless us all.

Thank you.