Oborevwori Tasks Media On Watchdog, Bridge - Building Roles

The Media has been urged to play its critical role as watchdog and bridge builder between the government and the citizens, promoting accountability and good governance. 

The remark was made Wednesday September 3, by the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at the 12th Annual Conference/ AGM of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, with the theme, "Corruption, Governance, And Media in Nigeria” held at MBB EVENTS, Km 2, Refinery Road, Effurun where he pledged to remain transparent in his leadership.

In his address, the Governor ably represented by the Executive Director, Projects, on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu stated that the Delta State Government has recorded a significant reduction in domestic debt, from N465.4 billion to N 204.7 billion, representing a 55% decrease, emphasizing his administration's commitment to transparency, accountability and justice, citing the publication of annual audited reports and prudent management of public funds.

"I'm honored to represent His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State at this conference on corruption, governance and the media. Without doubt, there is no better time and occasion to reveal the pragmatic and well-intentioned policies of the Sheriff Oborevwori - led administration. 

"I am proud to share the remarkable achievements of Governor Oborevwori's administration which have remained deeply committed to transparency and accountability. This is governance rooted in accountability, openness and progressive debt reduction. I'm pleased to report that Delta State domestic debt has dropped from N 465.40 billion in June 2023 to N 204.72 billion as of March 2025. A staggering reduction of over 55%. This did not happen by accident, it is the result of deliberate cost - cutting measures, strategic debt management, and a committed long- term economic sustainability," Dr. Okorodudu said.

While highlighting the State's achievements further, Dr. Okorodudu said the State has also prioritized clean energy, sanitation and waste - to wealth initiatives with plans to establish the Delta Electricity Commission and Delta Rural Electrification Agency and praised Governor Oborevwori's leadership, noting that Delta State has become Nigeria's fourth - largest economy due to investments in urban and rural areas. He thereafter, urged the Media to play its critical role as watchdog and bridge builder between the government and citizens, promoting accountability and good governance while pledging to continue to work in partnership with them.

Earlier, the National President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, ACSPN, Prof. Rotimi Williams Olatunji, in his welcome address had said the conference aims to address the multifaceted issue of corruption and its impact on Nigeria's development and highlighted the association's objectives to include interdisciplinary research, policy advocacy and knowledge exchange while appreciating Governor Oborevwori's support and praising Delta State's hosting of the event.

Some keynote speakers at the event include, Prof. Richard Ikiebe; Mr. Ola Olukayode, Executive Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and Prof. Ayobami Oyebode, Lead Speaker.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of Certificates of recognition and outstanding performances to some Organizations and Personalities who have contributed to the growth of the Nation.

Present during the ceremony were Prof. G. G. Darah; Prof. Abigail Ogweze Ndisika; Prof. E. M Mojaye and Dr. Fred Latimore, DG, Bureau of Communication, Delta State.

By Evelyn Obibi -Assay, Igho Ejememo

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