By Onyekachi Meluwa, Warri
Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has declared that peace is the “lifeline” of development, stressing that every policy of his administration under the MORE Agenda is anchored on sustaining unity and harmony across the state.
Oborevwori made the remarks yesterday at the Government House Annex, Warri, during the 2025 International Day of Peace celebration with the theme: ‘Act Now for a Peaceful World.’
He said the theme is a call for urgent action, reminding all that peace is not tomorrow’s dream but today’s duty.
The governor recalled his inauguration pledge on May 29, 2023, where he promised to advance Delta through Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms and Enhanced Peace and Security. He explained that machinery such as the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council has been instrumental in addressing conflicts, especially in coastal communities.
He commended the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Sir Edwin Uzor, for his steady leadership in sustaining peace through dialogue and reconciliation.
Oborevwori maintained that without peace, diversity could become a weakness instead of strength, adding that roads, hospitals, schools, and markets will mean little if communities remain in conflict.
He urged all citizens — youths, women, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations, civil society and leaders — to become custodians of peace, noting that it begins with tolerance, dialogue and selfless service.
On his part, the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution noted that the International Day of Peace, established in 1981 by the United Nations, remains devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace with 24 hours of global ceasefire and non-violence every September 21. He said this year’s theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” is a call to stop postponing peace and ensure that it begins in every home, community and heart.
Uzor pointed out that the Enhanced Peace and Security component of the MORE Agenda aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, justice and strong institutions.
He explained that his office has been mandated to prevent, manage and resolve conflicts through dialogue, sensitisation, advocacy and grassroots enlightenment, while also operating the fourth Agenda radio programme on Delta Broadcasting Service to amplify peace messages and counter violence, hate speech and intolerance.
According to him, deliberate peace efforts under the governor’s leadership have created an enabling environment for monumental projects across Warri and other parts of the state — including Enerhen Flyover, stormwater drainage works, Warri Township Stadium and modern health facilities such as the Renewed Hope Mother and Child Hospital. He added that more peace translates to more development, unity and progress.
The event also featured lectures by Professor Benjamin Okpevra of Delta State University, Abraka, and Ambassador Caroline Usikpedo-Oliseowe of the International Human Rights Commission, who provided further perspectives on this year’s global theme.
Both the governor and his aide noted that peace is not a distant aspiration, but a daily responsibility, urging Deltans to act now for a peaceful Delta, Nigeria and the world.
