Oborevwori Wins Excellence Award at Warri Film Festival

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence at the maiden Warri International Film Festival, recognising his outstanding support for Nollywood and his transformative contributions to the revival of Warri.

The prestigious award was presented during a colourful ceremony at the GT Events Hall, Warri, attended by filmmakers, cultural promoters, industry stakeholders, and creative influencers.

The honour celebrates Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, urban regeneration, and policies driving growth within Delta State’s creative economy.

Also recognised at the event were the Member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, and the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, expressed deep appreciation to the organisers for recognising the Governor’s developmental strides.

Speaking on the festival’s theme, “Film: The More Local, The More Global,” Aniagwu said:
“Let me appreciate His Excellency for giving me the privilege to receive this prestigious award on his behalf. This honour is a clear recognition of his unwavering support for Nollywood and his commitment to the transformation of Warri.
“Indeed, the Governor’s efforts in rebuilding Warri and its environs through infrastructural renewal, the revival of commercial activities, enhanced security, improved environmental cleanliness, and social empowerment initiatives are already yielding visible and impactful results.”

Aniagwu noted that the award reinforces Governor Oborevwori’s pledge to restore Warri’s pride of place as a commercial and cultural hub in the Niger Delta. He added that investments in road infrastructure, urban beautification, security, and youth-focused creative programmes are opening more opportunities for filmmakers and creatives across the state.

Warri South LGA Chairman, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, announced plans to establish a film village in Warri by 2026—an initiative expected to strengthen the city’s identity as a rising hub for Nigeria’s film industry while attracting investment and building local talent.

Festival founder, veteran filmmaker and journalist Mr. Alex Eyengho, described Governor Oborevwori as a “visionary leader whose policies have created a conducive environment for artistic expression and cinematic growth.”
He said the festival was established to promote Warri’s creative potential and showcase its talents to global audiences.

Eyengho commended the state government for fostering stronger partnerships between the entertainment sector and public institutions collaborations that he said are vital for job creation and for positioning Delta State as a preferred destination for film production.

Debuting this year, the Warri International Film Festival aims to spotlight local and international films, support emerging filmmakers, and re-establish Warri as a cultural hotspot. Governor Oborevwori’s recognition was among the highlights of the event, drawing applause from attendees who praised his developmental vision and growing support for the creative community.

With this honour, Governor Oborevwori joins distinguished public leaders celebrated for championing the creative sector and contributing significantly to the socio-economic revival of Warri.

Organisers expressed optimism that the Governor’s achievements will inspire more creative talents and attract investments that will further elevate Delta State on the global film map.