Gov Oborevwori Urges Ethical Leadership in Politics, Receives CAN Award

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on public office holders to place integrity, compassion and accountability above political convenience, saying political engagements should not undermine their commitment to God and service to humanity.

Oborevwori made the call in Abuja after receiving the Christian Icon Award from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the association’s 50th anniversary celebration held at the National Christian Centre on Saturday.

The award, presented by CAN president, Most Rev. Daniel C. Okoh, recognised the governor’s commitment to public service, ethical leadership and Christian values.

Okoh said the honour was reserved for leaders who demonstrated excellence, integrity and a commitment to nation-building in their political engagements.

According to the CAN president, Oborevwori’s contributions to national development, anchored on compassion, integrity and ethical leadership, continued to inspire people across the country.

He said the award also recognised the governor’s commitment to upholding Christian principles in governance and his contributions to the Christian community in Nigeria.

Receiving the award, Oborevwori described the recognition as a call to greater service, stressing that public office should be driven by sincerity and responsibility rather than personal recognition.

He said, “My faith and commitment to serving the people and humanity remain strong. It is a great honour to be recognised, particularly by the Christian Association of Nigeria.

“When an organisation such as CAN gives you an award, it means a lot because the recognition is based not merely on public service but also on integrity, character and the impact you have made.”

The governor said public officials must distinguish between political responsibilities and service to God, warning that politics should not erode personal faith or ethical standards.

“We may be involved in politics, but we must be able to distinguish between serving God and playing politics. These are two different responsibilities, and we must never allow politics to undermine our commitment to God,” he said.

Oborevwori also stressed the importance of unity within the Christian community, saying that the five blocs of CAN could contribute more to national development if they remained united and spoke with one voice.

“If they remain united and speak with one voice, I believe they can contribute significantly to the development of the country. Their unity will strengthen the Christian community and, in turn, contribute to a more united Nigeria,” he said.

He added that service to God should be pursued with sincerity, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility, rather than for personal pleasure or recognition.

The governor was accompanied to the event by former Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; members of the National Assembly, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Hon. Nicholas Mutu and Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko; Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Johnson Erijo; and Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, among others.