By Dianabasi Effiong
The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has said that the policies and programmes of his administration are tailored towards environmental sustainability.
Governor Oborevwori made this known on Wednesday at the Commissioning of the Newton Jibunor International Convention Center, Asaba.
The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, said, “We recognise that safeguarding our environment is essential to securing our future.
This is why my administration is committed to environmental sustainability through policies and programmes that promote ecosystem protection, climate resilience, afforestation, and sustainable land development.
“I am delighted to join you today for the commissioning of the Newton Jibunor International Convention Centre, as we commemorate the 2026 World Desertification and Drought Day.
“This world-class facility will serve as a centre for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, innovation, and international engagement.
“Also, we are drawing attention to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, desertification, land degradation, and drought, which continue to threaten livelihoods, food security, biodiversity, and sustainable development across the world.
“This occasion celebrates both a remarkable facility and a remarkable individual, Chief Newton Jibunor, an illustrious son of Delta State.
“Naming this centre after the renowned ‘Desert Warrior” is a fitting tribute to a man whose lifelong dedication to environmental protection and relentless fight against desertification have inspired action and hope across generations, earning him national and international acclaim.
“The observance of World Desertification and Drought Day reminds us that land degradation, climate change, and water scarcity remain serious threats to sustainable development, food security, and human well-being; these challenges demand collective action and long-term commitment.
“Let this facility stand as a symbol of hope, progress, and shared responsibility; let it remind us that the future of our environment depends on the choices we make today and that every effort towards restoring degraded lands and preserving natural ecosystems is an investment in the prosperity of future generations.
“Once again, I commend Chief Newton Jibunor and everyone for their vision and dedication, which made this project a reality.”
Chief Jibunor at the occasion, narrated several stories about his expedition through the Sahara Desert and concluded by saying that it is a collective responsibility to save the Planet.
“We have been taking and taking without giving back to the Planet and we must strive to make the Planet a better place because it is the only planet that has life in the whole universe,” Jibunor said.
Earlier, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by the Director, Environmental Conservation, Delta State Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Oruma Rebecca Akuejuefor, praised Jibunoh for his outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability and land restoration in Nigeria and beyond.
Some of the personalities who graced the occasion included the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sir Christopher Osakwe, the Asagba of Asaba, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, the Obi of Issele-Uku, Obi (Engr.) Nduka Nwosu, among others.
