Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday reaffirmed that education remains one of the strongest drivers of social transformation.
He praised Midwestern Oil and Gas Company Limited for its steady commitment to education, youth empowerment, technical skills development, and community support initiatives.
The Governor made the remarks while receiving the company’s Managing Director, Elozino Olaniyi, and her management team during a courtesy visit at Government House in Asaba. He noted that the company’s scholarship schemes have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many students.
Welcoming the delegation, Oborevwori expressed gratitude for the company’s ongoing partnership with the state, emphasizing that progress in the energy sector must be matched with strong corporate social responsibility. He stressed that investing in young people today is a way of securing the state’s future. The Governor also applauded the company’s safety culture and environmental standards, pointing to its record of over seven million man-hours without a Lost Time Injury as evidence of professionalism and discipline.
He added that in the oil and gas industry, environmental responsibility and transparency are not optional but fundamental requirements.
Oborevwori assured the team that his administration will continue to provide a supportive environment for responsible businesses to succeed. According to him, the state government remains focused on strengthening policies that encourage local content, community participation, and sustainable development. He underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in promoting peace, economic stability, and long-term growth.
The Governor further urged the company to expand its engagement with host communities, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and youth employment. He reaffirmed the government’s openness to constructive dialogue and strategic partnerships that benefit the people of the state.
He also commended Mrs. Olaniyi for her leadership in the highly technical oil and gas industry, describing her visit as a reflection of a shared commitment to accountability, innovation, and community impact.
Earlier, Mrs. Olaniyi explained that the company sees its operations as going beyond profit. She said its mission is rooted in values and meaningful social impact, not just financial returns. She added that collaboration with communities is central to ensuring lasting development.
She revealed that since taking office, the company has expanded its focus on education and capacity building, awarding scholarships to 298 students across the country this year alone, with more than $2 million invested. The scholarships support both secondary and tertiary education, benefiting students from Delta State and other host communities, including some currently studying in the United States and Latvia.
