By Foster Akpore
Asaba, Delta State – March 20, 2025
In a celebration of excellence and integrity, the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN), Delta State Chapter, has honoured Esv. Oghenekohwo Christian Omoru (FNIVS, RSV, AMNIM, MNES) with the prestigious award of “Distinguished Professional” at its 9th Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony held at Orchid Hotels, DBS Road, Asaba.
The event brought together top professionals from diverse fields to discuss the theme: “The Role of Professionals in the Successful Implementation of the Delta State Government M.O.R.E Agenda.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), highlighted Delta’s impressive economic growth, revealing that the state has emerged as the fourth-largest economy in Nigeria. He attributed this progress to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s strategic governance, infrastructural investments, and a thriving private sector.
“Whether you denominate in naira or dollar, Delta is the fourth-largest economy in Nigeria and the highest oil producer in the country today,” Dr. Emu stated. He noted that while oil and gas remain the state’s primary revenue earner, the services and other sectors now account for 51.25% of the state’s GDP, signaling significant economic diversification.
Dr. Emu further emphasized that the state’s growth trajectory was driven by prudent resource management, investor-friendly policies, and a focus on key sectors like oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. He noted that agriculture alone has recorded a 13.3% annual growth for over six years, creating over 257,000 jobs.
The Oborevwori administration’s investments in road infrastructure, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and industrial parks were also cited as major contributors to the state’s economic strength. “With over 500 roads covering 1,500km and 933km of drainage projects, Delta is experiencing an economic transformation that fosters job creation and poverty reduction,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman, Delta State Internal Revenue Service, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, emphasized the role of professional bodies in supporting tax compliance and revenue generation in Delta State. He urged them to lead by example in tax payment, ensure competent representation of tax agents, educate the public, suggest revenue strategies, and participate in the DSIRS whistleblower policy.
He thanked Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his support and called for continued collaboration to enhance tax compliance and state development.
In his lecture, Paul Akporohwo underscored the importance of a well-structured Master Plan in Delta State’s urban development. He identified key challenges such as a lack of professionals, insufficient resources, poor training, and government neglect.
According to Akporohwo, a proper Master Plan provides a strategic vision, efficient resource allocation, improved coordination, and transparency. He noted that the Delta State Urban and Regional Planning Law (2021) governs planning processes, ensuring public participation and adherence to regulations.
To achieve sustainable urban development, he emphasized the need for the state to prioritize planning, strengthen legal enforcement, and invest in professional capacity.
A major highlight of the event was the recognition of Esv. Chris Omoru for his remarkable contributions to estate surveying, environmental valuation, and professional development in Nigeria. A native of Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area, he has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades, shaping the real estate and environmental management landscape in the country.
As the Principal Partner of Chris Oghene Omoru & Co., a leading firm of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, his expertise extends beyond property valuation to environmental pollution management, land rights awareness, and sustainable mangrove growth. His professional journey, which began as an Estate Assistant in Biodun Odeleye & Co. and later as an Estate Officer in HML Properties Limited, has been marked by a passion for professional excellence and environmental justice.
Esv. Omoru’s commitment to the field has earned him fellowship status in the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors & Valuers (NIESV) and active participation in various national and state-level professional committees. His contributions extend beyond his profession, with his involvement in community service as a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International and a Past President of the Rotary Club of Warri.
Speaking after receiving the award, Esv. Omoru expressed deep gratitude to APBN Delta State for the honour, stating:
“This recognition is not just about me but about the profession and the impact professionals can make in society. I am committed to continuing my contributions to estate valuation, environmental management, and community development.”
The event also served as a platform for thought-provoking discussions, networking, and the acknowledgment of other outstanding professionals.
In his remarks, Surv. Victor Ezie, Chairman of APBN Delta State, emphasized the critical role professionals play in governance and sustainable development, particularly in advancing the Delta State Government’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
He acknowledged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s infrastructural achievements, particularly on the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway, and commended his recognition as Governor of the Year by THISDAY/ARISE News. However, he called for greater investments in non-oil sectors such as agriculture, technology, industries, commerce, electricity, transportation, mass housing, and tourism to ensure sustainable economic growth.
Among the distinguished individuals also recognized at the event were: Dr. Kingsley Eze Omu, Ezinne (Lady) Catherine Ihuoma Onyeme, wife of the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Dr. Onojaeme Joseph Ogheneogaga, Delta State Commissioner for Health, Engr. Prof. Sony Emeka Ali, ESV. Sir Andy Emokiniovo Umunadi, FNIVS, Engr. Bemigho Ofoeyeno, Dr. Omosor Ifeanyichukwu Kingsley, Bldr. Kingsley Oghoro, Chief E.O. Ogbo
The event also had an impressive turnout of professionals, including: Charles Ojakovo, Philomena Okeowo, Victor O. Ezie, Paul Itawansa, Paul Akporohwo, Peter Akarogbe, Bemigho Ofoeyeno, Elon Blessing Ofoeyeno, John Emetailue, Oyimi Will, Kingsley A. Unueroh, Peter Ozili, Martyns E. Obiefuna, Erikpara O. J., Igwe Samuel, Kehinde Irikefe Ogaga, Ekure O. Felix, Egbo O. Rose, Esejo Paul Unuakpotovo, Bini Nathaniel
As the event drew to a close, attendees left inspired and with a renewed commitment to professional integrity and societal progress. The Distinguished Professional Award bestowed on Esv. Chris Omoru stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, expertise, and service to both his profession and community.
The APBN Delta State Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony remains an annual platform for fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the recognition of professionals who exemplify excellence and integrity in their respective fields