Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called on the media to intensify its role as a watchdog and vital link between government and citizens, stressing that accountability and transparency remain cornerstones of good governance.
The Governor, represented by Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, Executive Director (Projects) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, gave the charge on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the 12th Annual Conference and AGM of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), held at MBB Events Centre, Refinery Road, Effurun.
The conference had as its theme “Corruption, Governance, and Media in Nigeria.”
Dr. Okorodudu, speaking on behalf of the Governor, highlighted Delta’s strides in fiscal discipline, announcing that the state’s domestic debt had been reduced from N465.4 billion in June 2023 to N204.7 billion in March 2025—a 55% drop. He attributed this to deliberate cost-cutting, strategic debt management, and long-term sustainability measures.
“Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been intentional about openness, publishing annual audited reports and managing public resources prudently. This is governance rooted in transparency and justice,” he said.
He further noted that the state was prioritising clean energy, sanitation, and waste-to-wealth programmes, alongside plans to establish the Delta Electricity Commission and the Delta Rural Electrification Agency. According to him, these efforts, combined with investments in both urban and rural infrastructure, have helped position Delta as Nigeria’s fourth-largest economy.
Earlier, ACSPN President Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji said the conference was designed to interrogate corruption and governance issues while promoting policy-driven research and media collaboration.
Keynote speakers included EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukayode; Prof. Richard Ikiebe; and Prof. Ayobami Oyebode. The event also featured recognition awards for organisations and personalities who have contributed to national development.
Also in attendance included Prof. Abigail Ogweze Ndisika; Prof. G. G. Darah; Prof. E. M. Mojaye and DG, Bureau of Communication, Delta State, Dr. Fred Latimore.
Read also: KEGOZ OilSystems Refutes Allegations, Reaffirms Integrity of CONOG Relationship
