The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has honoured Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, with the Media-Friendly Governor of the Year Award in recognition of his administration’s cordial relationship with the media and commitment to press freedom.
TheNewsGuru (TNG) reports the Media-Friendly Governor of the Year Award was presented to Governor Oborevwori at the 4th edition of the Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria of the NUJ on Saturday in Abuja.
Speaking, the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, commended Oborevwori for what he described as his administration’s respect for press freedom, saying the union had not recorded any incident of intimidation, harassment or arrest of journalists during his tenure as governor.
He said the governor’s presence at the event, through his representative, demonstrated recognition of the media’s role in society and the importance of constructive engagement between government and journalists.
Meanwhile, Oborevwori, who also delivered the keynote address, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, open communication and the protection of journalists, urging media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy and fairness in the discharge of their duties.
The Governor, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, said democracy depended on citizens’ access to reliable information, freedom of expression and the ability to hold public officials accountable.
Speaking on the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance”, Oborevwori described the relationship between democracy and journalism as mutually dependent.
While noting that a free press gives citizens a voice, brings their concerns to public attention and ensures that those in authority are accountable for their actions, the Governor said responsible journalism was equally important in helping citizens understand public issues and make informed decisions.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, the governor recalled the contributions and sacrifices of journalists during the nationalist struggle, military rule and the country’s return to democracy in 1999.
He noted that many journalists endured harassment, intimidation, unlawful detention and other forms of persecution, while some paid the ultimate price in defence of truth and freedom.
Oborevwori said such sacrifices must not be forgotten, adding that the freedom enjoyed by the Nigerian press today was secured through the courage and commitment of journalists who stood against oppression.
He urged journalists to uphold professional ethics and ensure that their reports were guided by accuracy, fairness, verification and respect for the truth.
The governor warned that the proliferation of social media had made it easier for misinformation, fake reports and unverified claims to spread, with the potential to damage reputations, create tension and weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.
He said press freedom must go hand in hand with professional responsibility, stressing that responsible journalism did not require journalists to shield public officials from criticism or accept government explanations without scrutiny.
According to him, government must also recognise that accountability is an essential part of democratic leadership and should not regard every critical report as an act of hostility.
Oborevwori maintained that constructive criticism could expose gaps, correct mistakes and help governments improve service delivery.
He said his administration remained committed to providing an environment where journalists could perform their professional duties without intimidation or unnecessary pressure.
On governance and development in Delta State, the governor said his administration’s MORE Agenda focused on meaningful development, opportunities for all, realistic reforms, enhanced peace and security.
He explained that the agenda went beyond road construction to include rural connectivity, quality education, accessible healthcare, basic infrastructure, economic opportunities and improved living conditions.
He added that his administration was determined to ensure that no community was left behind, irrespective of its size or location.
The governor called on journalists to play their part in promoting inclusive development by reporting the concerns of underserved communities, highlighting challenges facing ordinary citizens and examining the impact of government policies and projects.
He said his administration welcomed fair reporting and constructive feedback, noting that such engagements would help government identify gaps and make necessary improvements.
Oborevwori also congratulated the recognised media icons, describing their contributions as important to the growth of journalism, national development and the strengthening of democracy.
He urged younger journalists to learn from the recognised professionals, verify facts before publication, seek different perspectives and never allow personal interests to compromise their professional responsibilities.