Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has emphasized the need for fair and transparent tax reforms, as well as responsible media engagement as Nigeria navigates key economic transition.
The governor made the remark on Thursday at the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council, held in Asaba.
He was represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu.
Speaking on the theme “Tax Regimes and Exchange Rate Unification: Economic Implications and the Media’s Strategic Role,” Oborevwori described taxation as the backbone of government’s revenue and a critical tool for national development.
“Without effective tax regime, no government can sustainably provide infrastructure, healthcare, education and security,” he said.
He stressed, however, that taxation must be fair, transparent and growth-oriented, warning that complex and multiple tax structures discourage investments, while weak enforcement undermines development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to broaden the tax base, reduce leakages and ensure that every naira collected is judiciously invested in the welfare of citizens.
Turning to Nigeria’s recent move toward exchange rate unification, the governor described the policy as a bold step aimed at stabilising the currency, attract foreign investments and eliminate distortions in the foreign exchange market.
While acknowledging short-term challenges, including inflationary pressures associated with the move, he insisted that the long-term gains remain substantial.
“These reforms will bring greater investors confidence, a level play field for businesses and enhanced competitiveness for Nigerian goods and services,” he noted.
For states like Delta, with vibrant oil, gas and agricultural sectors, stable exchange rates are “critical to unlocking export potentials and drive economic diversification.”
Oborevwori noted that ongoing reforms, particularly tax restructuring and exchange rate unification, are not abstract policies, but realities that influence commodity prices, wages and the survival of small businesses.
He assured that government is working to cushion their impact through targeted social interventions, infrastructure investments and support for local industries.
Highlighting the crucial role of the media, the governor said journalists remain central to shaping public understanding of economic reforms.
“You are the bridge between policy and the people,” he said, urging journalists to educate the public, monitor government’s policies, highlight stories of resilience and combat misinformation.
He cautioned that fake, misleading or sensational news could inflame tensions, destabilise communities and undermine confidence in national institutions.
“With great influence comes a solemn responsibility,” Oborevwori added, while calling on journalists to uphold accuracy, objectivity and professionalism.
He encouraged the NUJ and all media practitioners to approach their duties with courage, fairness and patriotism.
The governor reaffirmed Delta State’s readiness to partner the media by providing access to information and promoting transparency in governance.
“As we celebrate the Press Week, let us remember that the pen, microphone and the camera are powerful instruments. Used responsibly, they illuminate the path to economic stability, social justice and national prosperity,” he said.
He ended with a call for unity: “Together, we can build a Delta State and a Nigeria where reforms are embraced as stepping stones to greatness.”
The keynote speaker and Senator representing Delta South at the National Assembly, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, noted that tax reforms and exchange rate unification are central pillars of a broader agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to stabilise and grow the country’s economy.
“These reforms are not abstract ideas; they are strategic actions that rebuild an economy that works for all”, the senator, who was represented by Mr Uzuazo Ikelegbe, said.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the State NUJ Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, said the theme of the event was deliberately chosen to provoke thought, inspire policy conversations and reaffirm the media’s role as the watchdog and bridge between government and the governed.
“Nigerian journalists must not only report policies, but interpret them in ways that empower citizens to make informed decisions”, he said.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwwori for his administration’s unwavering support for press freedom, infrastructural development and inclusive governance under the MORE agenda.
He said: “We are witnesses to your government’s conscious investments in people-oriented projects across Delta State – in education, healthcare, infrastructure and youth development.”
