Oyibode Honoured With Vatican Award For Exemplary Leadership And Developmental Strides In Udu.

In a remarkable recognition of his sterling leadership and developmental impacts, the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun(Hon.) Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP, FCIA, was today Wednesday 30/04/25 presented with a prestigious award from the Vatican City of Rome.

The award presentation, which took place at Udu Local Government area of Delta State, was led by the Dean of Obiaruku Deanery and Parish Priest of Christ the King Catholic Church, Obiaruku, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Christopher Ekabo JP, who also serves as the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.

The award, which was reportedly ready before the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis, was presented on behalf of the Vatican by Rev. Fr. Raphael Ogiogba, Dean of Aragba Deanery. The ceremony was graced by several other clergymen, including Rev. Fr. Kelvin Mine and Rev. Fr. Adakre, among others.

Speaking during the ceremony, Rev. Fr. Dr. Ekabo lauded Oyibode as “the best-performing Chairman among the 25 Local Government Areas in Delta State.” He further declared:

“I humbly apply to His Holiness, Pope Francis, to bestow upon you his fraternal blessings — a recognition of your hard work and service to the people. You will not end your journey as just a Chairman. You will not end as merely a Commissioner. Greater roles await you by the grace of God.”

Rev. Fr. Ogiogba, while presenting the award, emphasized that the honour is symbolic of Oyibode’s outstanding contributions to peace-building and infrastructural development in Udu.

“In the name of the Holy Father, we present this to you. Every act of appreciation is a call to do more. May God continue to give you the grace, wisdom, and strength to serve.”

The event concluded with blessings and prayers for the Chairman’s continued success:

“When God’s grace is upon you, nothing can stop you. We bless you today in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”

On his part, the visibly elated Udu Council Boss expressed deep gratitude for the honour, describing it as a motivation to further replicate the MORE Agenda of Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in Udu.

“By the special grace of God, I will fulfil my campaign promises to the good people of Udu. I hold this Chairmanship seat in trust for them.”

The event was a testament to the impact of purposeful leadership and a reaffirmation of Oyibode’s growing legacy in grassroots governance and community development.

Press Unit Office of The Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council.