In a powerful demonstration of the importance his administration places on traditional institutions, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday presented 65 brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, describing the gesture as a deliberate investment in peace, stability and grassroots governance.
The presentation, which took place at Government House, Asaba, saw 60 brand new Toyota Prados and five Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs handed over to royal fathers to enhance their mobility and effectiveness, especially in rural and riverine communities.
Governor Oborevwori described the event as “a very important and symbolic day in the life of this administration,” noting that traditional rulers occupy a unique and invaluable position in governance.
“The beneficiaries here today represent a special class of leaders whose contributions to governance are critical, but often understated,” the Governor said.
Drawing from his extensive grassroots political experience, Oborevwori stressed that traditional rulers are far more than custodians of customs and culture.
“They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” he stated.
While reaffirming his administration’s irrevocable commitment to building a strong and inclusive economy anchored on equity and justice, the Governor lauded traditional rulers for their consistent support and cooperation.
“I can confidently state that traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State. I commend their unwavering commitment to peace, progress and prosperity,” he said.
According to the Governor, royal fathers play frontline roles in mobilising communities, promoting government programmes, resolving disputes, and supporting security agencies, often without expecting any form of reward.
“Our Royal Fathers are often on the road, responding to government directives, mediating in communal disputes, engaging in peace-building and conflict resolution. They do all these voluntarily and willingly. For this, we are truly grateful,” Oborevwori added.
He explained that the decision to provide rugged SUVs was intentional, considering the difficult terrains many traditional rulers must navigate in the discharge of their duties. These vehicles are not luxuries; they are tools of service.What is required is strength, durability and functionality, and that is what these vehicles provide,” the Governor declared.
Governor Oborevwori linked the gesture to his administration’s broader philosophy of inclusive governance under the MORE Agenda, particularly its pillar of Opportunities for All.
He highlighted several social intervention programmes already implemented, including financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons under the DCARES Programme, grants to petty traders and artisans, empowerment initiatives for women and youths, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state.
He also reeled out achievements in workers’ welfare, prompt pension payments, scholarships and bursaries, as well as financial assistance for Delta indigenes in Nigerian Law Schools.
“From the foregoing, it is clear that every segment of our population has been touched. So, when we turn our attention today to our traditional rulers, it is not out of favouritism, but fairness,” he said.
In a lighter moment, the Governor added: “You have not stressed me. You have not made demands. Wherever I go in your domains, I receive warmth, culture and cooperation. This gesture today is from the heart.”
Also see: Guwor to DTHA Staff: Welfare, Retraining Top Agenda for 2026
Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, said the presentation of the vehicles was a clear and practical demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions.
He noted that the gesture was in appreciation of the vital role traditional rulers play in ensuring peace, unity and stability across Delta State.
In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, outlined the administration’s developmental strides across various sectors, noting that Delta State is being governed with empathy, foresight and a deep commitment to the collective welfare of its people.
Speaking separately during the ceremony, the Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor (JP); the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abe I; and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan (JP), expressed profound appreciation to the Governor, noting that the vehicles would significantly enhance their efficiency in the discharge of their traditional responsibilities.
In a vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, described the presentation of the 65 SUVs as a timely and deeply symbolic intervention that would strengthen grassroots governance and peace-building across the state.
He stressed that mobility remains central to the effective discharge of traditional rulers’ duties, adding that “a vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service.”
The traditional rulers’ council chairman assured Governor Oborevwori of the unwavering support of royal fathers across the state, describing traditional institutions as custodians of culture and natural partners of government at the grassroots.
