Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has received the Award of Excellence in Leadership from the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in recognition of his outstanding leadership, visionary policies, and contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The award was presented on Wednesday during the 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST), held at the PTDF Towers, Abuja. The event, themed “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment, and Governance,” brought together key stakeholders from across Africa’s energy landscape.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, Governor Oborevwori described the honour as a testament to the resilience and enterprise of the people of Delta State, whose land and waterways have long supported Nigeria’s energy wealth.
“To be recognized by an institution of PTI’s calibre is not just a personal honour but a collective one,” the governor said.
“I dedicate this award to the people of Delta, whose sacrifice, resilience, and faith continue to drive our development journey.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to responsible resource management, Oborevwori said his M.O.R.E Agenda—focused on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—was designed to ensure that the paradox of wealth and deprivation in the Niger Delta gives way to inclusive growth and environmental justice.
He emphasized that peace, security, and community engagement remain central to sustainable investment in the state. “We are ensuring that Deltans are not bystanders but active participants in the oil and gas value chain,” he stated, citing collaborations with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and PTI to expand skill development and local participation.
Governor Oborevwori also underscored the administration’s environmental priorities, warning that oil operations must align with global standards. “A healthy environment is essential for both our people and the industry. PTI is not just a neighbour but a partner in building a responsible hydrocarbon economy,” he said.
In his remarks, Engr. Dr. Samuel Onoji, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of PTI, hailed the governor’s leadership and support for the institute, noting Delta State’s recent donation of operational vehicles to enhance PTI’s logistics and field research capacity. He described the conference as a platform for shaping Africa’s response to global energy transitions, reaffirming PTI’s role in developing human capacity, with over 55,000 professionals trained since inception.
Observers noted that Oborevwori’s recognition by PTI reinforces his growing reputation as a leading advocate for responsible governance, sustainable development, and inclusive growth in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
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