By Mick Oseji, Asaba
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his commitment to serving God, saying he resisted advice to abandon church work when he became Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
The governor maintained that political responsibilities should never come at the expense of one’s faith, stressing the need to distinguish between political service and commitment to God.
Oborevwori spoke after the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) honoured him with its Christian Icon Award in recognition of his public service, integrity, ethical leadership and commitment to Christian values.
The award was presented by CAN President, His Eminence, Most Rev. (Dr.) Daniel C. Okoh, during the association’s 50th anniversary celebration at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Saturday, according to a statement issued by the Government House, Asaba.
Recounting his journey in public service and Christian ministry, Oborevwori said his involvement in church activities predated his emergence as Speaker of the state assembly.
He explained that although some people had advised him to step away from church work because of the demands of political office, he remained steadfast in his conviction that serving God and humanity was a responsibility he could not abandon.
“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.
Describing the award as both an honour and a call to greater responsibility, Oborevwori said recognition from CAN carried particular significance because of the association’s emphasis on character, integrity and contributions to society.
“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.
He added: “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.”
Presenting the award, Okoh said the recognition was reserved for distinguished leaders whose public engagements reflected integrity, excellence, nation-building and the values of faith and service.
He said Oborevwori’s contributions to national development and the Christian community had earned him the honour.
The Delta governor also used the occasion to advocate greater unity among the five blocs within the Christian community, urging them to strengthen their cooperation and speak with one voice on issues affecting the country.
According to him, a united Christian community would be better positioned to contribute meaningfully to national development and promote cohesion across Nigeria.
“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 country’s development. Their unity will strengthen the Christian community and, in turn, contribute to a more united Nigeria,” he said.
Oborevwori further emphasised that service to God should be motivated by sincerity, dedication and a genuine sense of responsibility rather than personal gratification or the pursuit of public recognition.
Among the dignitaries who accompanied the governor to the ceremony were immediate past Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; and members of the National Assembly, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Hon. Nicholas Mutu and Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko.
Others included the Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Johnson Erijo; Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo; and other government officials and political leaders.
