Gov Sheriff Oborevwori and Onoriode Oborevwori shake hands

Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, popularly known as Onos, has dedicated his 3rd Nigeria-France Sports Award in Paros to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Fielding questions from reporters recently, Onoriode maintained that the success story would not have been possible had Delta State Governor, Sheriff OborevworiDelta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori not supported his vision and gave him the enabling environment to execute them.

Speaking after receiving his award, an Onoriode said: “I’m so happy for winning this award. I was not expecting it but shocked. I want to thank God Almighty for this award. I dedicate this award to my family, to my elder brother, the Governor of Delta State, and the special people of Delta State, especially my athletes. They are the ones that made it possible for me to be here today. I appreciate, God bless you all.”

The NFSA ceremony, held on October 20 at the elegant Maison Des Arts in Le Plessis-Robinson, Paris, brought together diplomats, sports icons, and members of the Nigerian diaspora, reinforcing the strong cultural and sporting ties between both nations. .

Organised by France-based Nigerian sports journalist and media entrepreneur, Babatunde Ojora, convener of OJB Sport, the event continues to shine a light on individuals who blend local impact with global influence.

The award night also saw several other notable figures recognised for their invaluable contributions. Zulu, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, received the Award of Excellence for Grassroots Sports Development. Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, popularly known as IBD Dende, was honoured with the Green and White Champion Award, while globally licensed FIFA and FA agent, Dr Drew Uyi, was acknowledged for his influence in global football representation.

Since his appointment in November 2024, the State has experienced massive turnaround in the sports sector with energy geared toward developing talents in the grassroots.

Towards this end, the state has sustained the legacy and thriving model of youth development in sports in Nigeria. Beside, Onoriode’s tenure has beenOnoriode’s tenure has been defined by a strategic focus on school sports, gender-inclusive programmes ,which has continued to make the state a national hub for sporting excellence.

The sports administrator introduced community-based development models, and widely lauded forcreated sustainable pathways for young athletes. His leadership has been credited with creating an environment where sports and education go hand-in-hand—a model that many now view as a national benchmark.

Besides, The organizers of the Nigeria-France Sports Awards celebrated Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development,