File: Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.
The Christian Association of Nigeria has honoured Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, with its Christian Icon Award, as the governor urged public office holders to ensure that political engagements do not undermine their commitment to God.
Oborevwori made the call on Saturday after receiving the award during CAN’s 50th anniversary celebration at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
The award was presented by the CAN President, Daniel Okoh, in recognition of the governor’s public service, integrity, ethical leadership and commitment to Christian values.
Speaking in a statement issued after the ceremony, Oborevwori said political responsibilities and service to God should remain distinct, stressing that holding public office should not weaken a person’s faith.
“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.
The governor described the recognition as a call to greater service to humanity, expressing gratitude to God and CAN for the honour.
He said the award carried particular significance because the association considered not only a recipient’s record in public service but also their 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.
“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,” Oborevwori said.
He disclosed that his commitment to ushering work predated his emergence as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.
According to him, he continued the practice despite advice at the time that he should discontinue it because of his political position.
The governor said his belief that service to God and humanity was a responsibility that must be sustained had remained a guiding principle throughout his public life.
He added that religious service should not be driven by personal gratification or the desire for recognition but by sincerity, dedication and a sense of responsibility.
Oborevwori also called for unity among Christian groups, commending efforts to bring the five blocs within the Christian community together.
“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. Their unity will strengthen the Christian community and, in turn, contribute to a more united Nigeria,” he said.
Presenting the award, Okoh said the honour was reserved for leaders who demonstrated excellence, integrity, commitment to nation-building and the values of faith and service in their political engagements.
He said Oborevwori’s contributions to national development through public service, which he said were anchored on compassion, integrity and ethical leadership, continued to inspire generations across the country.
Okoh added that the award recognised the governor’s commitment to Christian principles in governance and his contributions to the Christian community.
The ceremony was attended by political leaders and government officials who accompanied the governor, including the immediate past Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; and members of the National Assembly, Victor Nwokolo, Nicholas Mutu and Jonathan Ukodhiko.
Others were the Chief of Staff, Government House, Johnson Erijo, and the Senior Political Adviser to the governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, among other government functionaries and political leaders.