Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has received the Award of Excellence in Leadership from the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), in recognition of his exemplary leadership and remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The honour was bestowed during the 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST), which took place at the PTDF Towers, Abuja, on Wednesday.
Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, described the award as a reflection of the collective resilience and industry of the Delta people, who have remained central to the nation’s energy wealth for decades.
“To be recognised by a world-class institution like PTI is not only a personal honour but a testament to the sacrifice and enterprise of our people,” he said. “I dedicate this award to every Deltan who continues to contribute to our shared development vision.”
Addressing participants on the conference theme, “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment, and Governance,” Governor Oborevwori called for a new era of inclusive growth and environmental justice in the Niger Delta. He said the region must move beyond the paradox of resource wealth and community deprivation through reforms and responsible governance.
The governor reaffirmed that his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda is anchored on peace, equity, and sustainable development, noting that stability in the state has been strengthened through proactive engagement with host communities and industry stakeholders.
“Our goal is to ensure that Deltans are active participants in the oil and gas value chain,” he explained. “Through strategic partnerships with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and PTI, we are building the capacity of our people to benefit from the evolving global energy landscape.”
Oborevwori further underscored his administration’s commitment to environmental protection, insisting that oil exploration activities in the state must adhere to international best practices to safeguard local ecosystems.
“A healthy environment remains fundamental to both our people and the energy sector,” he stated. “PTI is not only our neighbour but a strategic partner in shaping a responsible and inclusive hydrocarbon economy.”
In his address, PTI Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Dr. Samuel Onoji, described the biennial conference as a crucial forum for dialogue on Africa’s energy future amid global energy transition efforts.
Dr. Onoji praised Governor Oborevwori for his consistent support to the Institute, citing the Delta State Government’s recent donation of operational vehicles to enhance PTI’s logistics and field operations.
He reaffirmed PTI’s mandate as Africa’s leading centre for technical training and research, having produced over 55,000 skilled professionals since its inception.
Observers noted that the recognition by PTI further cements Governor Oborevwori’s growing reputation as a key advocate for sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Comment:*
Nickname*
E-mail*
Website
