RismadarVoice Reporters
October 17, 2026
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged political leaders across Nigeria to remain steadfast in their faith and moral convictions, warning that the pursuit of political power should never take precedence over their commitment to God.
The governor made an appeal on Saturday in Abuja after receiving the Christian Icon Award from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) during its 50th anniversary celebration at the National Christian Centre.
Oborevwori described the recognition as a significant honour and a renewed call to serve God and humanity with sincerity, humility and dedication.
He maintained that political leadership and religious commitment were distinct responsibilities that should complement rather than undermine one another.
“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,” the governor said.
GOVERNOR SAYS POLITICAL OFFICE SHOULD NOT WEAKEN FAITH
Speaking at the ceremony, Oborevwori emphasised the importance of maintaining strong religious convictions while discharging political responsibilities.
He said individuals entrusted with public office should remain guided by integrity, humility and a sense of accountability.
According to him, political activities should not become an excuse for neglecting spiritual obligations or abandoning the values that shape personal character.
The governor maintained that genuine service requires commitment and sincerity rather than the pursuit of public recognition or personal gratification.
He encouraged political leaders to demonstrate their faith through their conduct and contributions to society.
Oborevwori also stressed that leadership should be regarded as an opportunity to serve others rather than merely an avenue for exercising authority.
OBOREVWORI DESCRIBES AWARD AS MOTIVATION FOR GREATER SERVICE
The governor expressed gratitude to God and the leadership of CAN for finding him worthy of the Christian Icon Award.
He said the recognition was particularly meaningful because it came from a major Christian organisation that considers character, integrity and service to humanity in recognising individuals.
“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,” he said.
Oborevwori explained that the award would encourage him to deepen his commitment to public service and uphold the values associated with the recognition.
He maintained that service to humanity should be driven by genuine concern for others rather than expectations of reward.
The governor also acknowledged the importance of faith in shaping his personal life and approach to leadership.
GOVERNOR RECALLS YEARS OF SERVICE AS CHURCH USHER
Reflecting on his religious activities, Oborevwori disclosed that his commitment to serving as a church usher began long before he became Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
He recalled that some individuals had advised him to discontinue ushering after attaining a prominent political position.
However, he said he chose to continue the practice because he did not believe political status should prevent anyone from serving God.
The governor presented the experience as an example of the importance of remaining committed to personal convictions regardless of changes in social or political standing.
He maintained that religious service should not be determined by titles, influence or public recognition.
According to him, humility and dedication remain essential qualities for anyone seeking to serve God and humanity.
OBOREVWORI CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG CAN’S FIVE BLOCS
The Delta State governor also appealed for stronger unity among Christian organisations in Nigeria.
He commended ongoing efforts to promote cooperation among the five blocs that make up the Christian Association of Nigeria.
Oborevwori said greater unity would strengthen the Christian community’s ability to contribute meaningfully to national development, peace and social cohesion.
“I commend the efforts to bring the five blocs together. If they remain united and speak with one voice, I believe they can contribute significantly to the development of the country,” he said.
He maintained that cooperation among Christian organisations would improve their collective capacity to address issues affecting society.
The governor also expressed the belief that stronger unity within the Christian community could contribute to broader national harmony.
He encouraged religious leaders to continue promoting understanding, peaceful coexistence and responsible citizenship.
CAN PRESIDENT EXPLAINS REASON FOR AWARD
Presenting the award, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the Christian Icon Award was intended to recognise distinguished leaders whose public engagements reflected faith, integrity and commitment to national development.
Okoh explained that the recognition celebrated individuals who had demonstrated excellence in leadership while maintaining values consistent with Christian principles.
He commended Oborevwori for his contributions to governance and nation-building.
According to the CAN president, the governor’s leadership and commitment to service provided an example capable of inspiring others.
The award formed part of activities marking the association’s golden jubilee, commemorating 50 years of its existence and contributions to Christian representation and national affairs.
OKOWA, DELTA LAWMAKERS ACCOMPANY GOVERNOR
Oborevwori was accompanied to the ceremony by several political leaders and senior government officials from Delta State.
Among those present were former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor.
Members of the National Assembly in attendance included Victor Nwokolo, Nicholas Mutu and Jonathan Ukodhiko.
Also present were the Chief of Staff, Government House, Johnson Erijo, and the Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo.
Other government officials and political associates joined the governor at the anniversary celebration.
FAITH, INTEGRITY AND SERVICE TAKE CENTRE STAGE
The governor’s remarks highlighted the relationship between religious convictions, personal integrity and public leadership.
While acknowledging the demands of political office, Oborevwori maintained that leaders should not allow political responsibilities to weaken their commitment to God or their obligations to humanity.
He also stressed the importance of unity among religious organisations and their contributions to peace and national development.
For Oborevwori, the Christian Icon Award represents both recognition of his public service and an encouragement to remain committed to the principles he says have guided his personal and political life.
The governor reaffirmed his determination to continue serving the people of Delta State while upholding his faith and commitment to humanity.
