ONORIODE OBOREVWORI: My vision for Delta State sports
Onoriode Oborevwori, Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission (DSSC) gained his nickname, Onos, playing football in the very heart of Delta State, Warri. His is not different from the story of
- By Taiwo Alimi
Onoriode Oborevwori, Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission (DSSC) gained his nickname, Onos, playing football in the very heart of Delta State, Warri. His is not different from the story of many high profiled footballers and sports administrators, especially, in Africa, who bestrode greatness from the ashes and dusts of common streets playing football.
Onos, the abridged form of his given name, learnt quite early the tricks of leadership from the local grounds, where the he gained attention and traction.
Onos was born in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, and like his peers began his soccer career on dusty fields.
He was to join the then popular local club Franger FC in Warri in 1999 alongside ex-internationals as Joseph Enaikarhire and Ishola Shuaibu.
At Franger FC, Onos became an integral part of the team that won a local tournament in Warri.
He also began to showcase his leadership, teamwork and flexibility spirit.
“One of my most memorable moments was leading Franger FC to a crucial victory in a local tournament where we came from behind to win. It wasn't just about the win—it was about teamwork, resilience, and the passion we all shared. That experience has continued to shape my belief in the power of sports to build character and unity.”
His football sojourn wouldn't be for long as he left to focus on his construction and hospitality business.
Yet, football and sports in general play a pivotal role on his undertakings and accomplishment.
“I still enjoy playing football whenever my schedule allows. It helps me stay connected to the game at a personal level. I also engage in light fitness activities to stay healthy. Being active reminds me of the discipline and joy that sports bring. I am an active member of the All Stars Football team.”
So, it didn't come as a surprise when he was appointed as Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission in November 2024. His appointment was confirmed by inauguration on December 4, 2024.
In a short time, Onos has been recognized as a visionary leader capable of turning around the fortune of Delta State sports, a state well known for its endowment in the that sector.
He has been credited for his grassroots development focus. He initiated community-based development models, prioritizing the rejuvenation of local sports through inter-local government games and school-based competitions to discover young talent.
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Onos also steered the revival of the Warri Wolves; the state's biggest football club, by restructuring the technical crew, improving player welfare, and ensuring prompt salary payments, which helped the team stabilize and aim for higher performance.
In October of last year, he received the Best Commissioner of the Year Award at the third Nigeria-France Sports Award held in Paris, which he dedicated to his family, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and Delta State athletes.
Philanthropist
Onos is widely regarded as a philanthropist. He has a reputation for supporting athletes financially, providing lodging for teams, and ensuring that sports programs continue in spite of all odds. His leadership style combines strategic planning, grassroots engagement, and personal investment in the development of sports in Delta State.
Onos speaks more on his vision for Delta sports, leadership style and philosophy among other things. The interview was conducted by Taiwo Alimi.
What's your vision for Delta State's sports in the next five years?
My vision is to make Delta State the undisputed hub of sports excellence in Nigeria and a strong contender on the African stage. Over the next five years, we aim to build a sustainable sports ecosystem—one that nurtures talent from the grassroots to elite levels, upgrades infrastructure across the State, and create economic opportunities through sports. We also want to institutionalize talent discovery programs and strengthen partnerships with private investors and international bodies.
How do you engage with local communities to promote grassroots sports?
Grassroots engagement is central to our strategy. We encourage organization of inter-school competitions, community leagues, and talent hunts in both urban and rural areas. We also collaborate with local leaders, coaches, and educators to identify and mentor young talents early. Beyond competitions, we focus on awareness—helping communities understand that sports can be a pathway to education, discipline, and career development.
How do you plan to balance sports development with education in Delta State?
We strongly believe that sports and education must go hand in hand. Our approach is to integrate structured sports programs within schools while ensuring academic standards are maintained. Through active collaboration and engagement with Ministries of Education (Primary, Secondary, Technical and Tertiary). We also promote scholarship opportunities for talented athletes and emphasize life after sports by encouraging skill acquisition, formal education and gainful employment through the human capital development initiative of the Oborevwori administration.
What's the key to your success in supporting athletes and sports programs despite funding challenges?
The key is strategic planning, transparency, and partnerships. We prioritize programs that deliver the most impact and ensure that available resources are used efficiently. We also engage private sector stakeholders and sponsors to complement the tremendous government funding under the present Administration. Above all, passion and commitment to the athletes keep us going.
What is your leadership style and philosophy, especially in charge of such a dynamic sector?
My leadership style is inclusive, results-driven, and people-oriented. I believe in teamwork, accountability, and empowering professionals to do their jobs effectively. Sports is a dynamic sector, so I prioritize adaptability, innovation, and constant engagement with stakeholders to ensure we stay ahead in line with the M.O.R.E Agenda of the Delta State government.
What is being done to transform the fortune of professional football clubs in Delta State?
We are working on strengthening club management structures, improving funding models, and enhancing player development systems. There is also a focus on better scouting, coaching education, and infrastructure upgrades, as see with the ongoing Warri City Stadium development project. We want our clubs not just to compete locally, but to be strong contenders nationally and internationally.
You were recently awarded Best Commissioner of the Year at the 3rd Nigeria-France Sports Award. How do you feel about this?
I feel deeply honored and humbled by the recognition. It is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the hard work of the entire team in Delta State. It motivates us to do more and reinforces our commitment to excellence. Awards like this also put Delta State on the global sports map, which is very encouraging.
Can you share a memorable moment from your playing days with Franger FC?
One of my most memorable moments was leading Franger FC to a crucial victory in a local tournament where we came from behind to win. It wasn't just about the win—it was about teamwork, resilience, and the passion we all shared. That experience continues to shape my belief in the power of sports to build character and unity.
Do you still enjoy playing football or do any other sports?
Yes, I still enjoy playing football whenever my schedule allows. It helps me stay connected to the game at a personal level. I also engage in light fitness activities to stay healthy. Being active reminds me of the discipline and joy that sports bring. I am an active member of the All Stars Football team.
