Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emphasized the state’s significant role in sustaining and expanding Nigeria’s oil production through peace initiatives, local content development, and environmental responsibility.
Speaking at the 2025 International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology organized by the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Abuja, Oborevwori said Delta’s commitment to stability and inclusive governance has enhanced oil operations across the region.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, the governor explained that his administration’s policies under the M.O.R.E Agenda (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Reforms for Institutional Strength, and Enhanced Peace and Security) are designed to bridge the gap between resource extraction and community welfare. “We have prioritised peace and security as the foundation for investment and growth,” he stated. “Through engagement with community leaders and industry operators, we have created a more stable environment for production.”
Oborevwori received an Award of Excellence in Leadership from PTI during the conference. He described the recognition as a tribute to the resilience of Deltans, whose contributions continue to power Nigeria’s energy wealth. He added that his government’s collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and PTI has increased opportunities for local participation in the oil and gas value chain.
According to the governor, the state government is focused on ensuring that Deltans are active participants in the petroleum industry rather than passive observers. “We are empowering our people through training and partnerships so they can fully benefit from the oil and gas sector,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr Emeka Vitalis Obi, praised Delta State’s efforts while noting that more needs to be done to actualize the full benefits of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He said the government is pushing for improved refinery utilisation, better technology transfer, and stronger community development initiatives.
The Principal and Chief Executive of PTI, Dr Samuel Onoji, also called for greater investment in Africa’s hydrocarbon resources. He stressed that the continent must balance energy expansion with environmental protection to ensure long-term sustainability.