QUIET STRENGTH OF HUMILITY

Sheriff Oborevwori ushers in worshippers to their seats at Shiloh annual Christian programme, writes ADENEKAN OLUWAPOSI

In a world where power often erects walls and public office breeds distance, a rare and refreshing moment unfolded at the just-concluded Shiloh annual Christian programme of the Living Faith Church Worldwide. Amid the sea of worshippers, choristers, top pastors and church workers, one man quietly stood out, not because of security details, political paraphernalia , but because of an apron of service. He was Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State.

Clad simply and blending effortlessly with other church volunteers, the governor was seen ushering worshippers, guiding congregants to their seats and serving with calm attentiveness. Within hours, videos and images of the moment spread across social media, igniting admiration and reflection. For many Nigerians, it was not just a viral moment; it was a powerful reminder of leadership anchored in humility and reverence for God Almighty.

For Governor Oborevwori, the act was neither a publicity stunt nor a departure from character. Those who know him closely insist that the humility on display at Shiloh is consistent with the man he has always been. Long before the weight of public office rested on his shoulders, he embraced the Christian doctrine that leadership is service and greatness is found in humility.

In a society where exalted positions often come with entitlement and visible separation from ordinary people, the governor’s conduct quietly challenged prevailing norms. He did not announce himself. He did not demand special treatment. He simply served.

The symbolism was profound. Here was a man entrusted with state power and authority, yet completely submitted to God, comfortable taking instructions, performing routine tasks and serving alongside fellow believers. It was leadership stripped of ego and power laid at the altar of faith.

Public office has a way of reshaping personalities. It hardens some, distances others, and inflates egos. Yet Governor Sheriff’s demeanor at Shiloh told a different story. The same man elected to govern remained unchanged in spirit—grounded, accessible and deeply conscious of who he is before God.

Observers noted how effortlessly he performed his ushering duties, exchanging warm smiles, offering gentle guidance and displaying genuine concern for worshippers. There was no trace of impatience or superiority. Instead, there was an unmistakable sense of purpose: service to God and service to people.

For many, this constancy of character explains his growing reputation as a leader who governs with empathy. Power, in his case, has not altered his essence; it has amplified his values.

Governor Oborevwori’s love for the people he leads is widely acknowledged, and those close to him trace it directly to his Christian convictions. His faith teaches compassion, humility and responsibility toward others, values that now reflect in his public life, which are widely attested across the oil-rich state of Delta.

At Shiloh, those values were visible not in speeches or declarations, but in quiet action. His willingness to serve in ushering capacity mirrored the biblical principle that leaders must first be servants. It also echoed Christ’s example like washing feet, feeding the hungry and identifying with the least.

This same empathy, aides and close associates say, defines his approach to governance. Whether engaging community leaders, listening to citizens’ concerns or responding to social needs, Governor Sheriff is known for a hands-on style that prioritizes human dignity over political distance.

The visuals from Shiloh resonated far beyond the Living Faith Church. They sparked conversations about leadership, faith and accountability. Many Nigerians, weary of arrogance in public life, found hope in the simplicity of the moment.

Religious leaders praised the governor for publicly acknowledging God as the ultimate authority. Civic voices described the act as a reminder that leadership must be rooted in humility. Young people, in particular, saw in him a model of integrity, proof that success and service can coexist.

In a country searching for leaders who inspire trust, the governor’s actions communicated more than words ever could. They conveyed sincerity, reverence and a deep understanding that all authority flows from God.

At the heart of the viral moment was a complete reference to God Almighty. His service was an act of worship, an outward expression of an inward conviction that leadership is stewardship and that no title is greater than one’s identity as a servant of God.

In choosing to serve quietly at Shiloh, he reaffirmed his belief that all achievements, offices and privileges are temporary, but service to God and humanity is eternal.

As the videos fade and the news cycle moves on, the lesson remains. Governor Oborevwori did not just usher worshippers; he ushered in a powerful narrative about leadership without pride, authority without arrogance and faith without pretense.

In a single act, he reminded the nation that true greatness is not in being served, but in serving; not in position, but in purpose; and not in power, but in humility before God.

For many Nigerians, that quiet moment at Shiloh was both inspiring and reassuring. It showed that even in exalted positions, it is still possible to remain grounded, compassionate and fully submitted to God Almighty.

Oluwaposi writes from Lagos State