The Christian Association of Nigeria has honoured Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, with its Christian Icon Award for his commitment to public service, integrity, ethical leadership and Christian values.
The award was presented by CAN President, Most Rev. Daniel Okoh, during the association’s 50th anniversary celebration at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Saturday.
Speaking after receiving the award, Oborevwori described the recognition as a call to greater service to God and humanity, insisting that political responsibilities must never undermine one’s faith.
The governor said the honour was particularly significant because it came from CAN, noting that the association’s recognition went beyond public service to encompass 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.
“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 stressed the need for public office holders to distinguish between politics and service to God, warning against allowing political engagements to weaken their Christian convictions.
“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.
Presenting the award, Okoh said the recognition was reserved for distinguished leaders who demonstrated excellence, integrity, commitment to nation-building and the values of faith and service in their public engagements.
He said Oborevwori’s contributions to national development, anchored on compassion, integrity and ethical leadership, continued to inspire people across the country.
According to the CAN president, the award also recognised the governor’s commitment to Christian principles in governance and his contributions to the Christian community in Nigeria.
Oborevwori further disclosed that his commitment to ushering began years before he became Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, adding that he continued despite advice at the time to discontinue the practice because of his political position.
He said his conviction that service to God and humanity was a responsibility that must be sustained had remained a guiding principle throughout his public life.
The governor also called for unity among the five blocs within CAN, saying their ability to speak with one voice would strengthen the Christian community and contribute to national development.
“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.
He added that service to God should not be driven by personal gratification or the pursuit of recognition, but by sincerity, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.
Oborevwori expressed delight at the presence of political leaders and other dignitaries at the ceremony, noting that the recognition highlighted CAN’s role in promoting unity among Christians.
The governor was accompanied by his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; members of the House of Representatives, Victor Nwokolo, Nicholas Mutu and Jonathan Ukodhiko; Chief of Staff, Government House, Johnson Erijo; and Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, among other government officials and political leaders.
