By Sunday Apah
The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) met on Thursday and approved the payment of ₦10 billion to address pension obligations passed down from earlier administrations.
The meeting, led by Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme at Government House in Asaba, followed the directive of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who was attending an official function outside the state.
During a press briefing after the meeting, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, accompanied by his colleagues in Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen; Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele; and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, reported that the EXCO reviewed various significant memos that addressed social investment, infrastructure, and governance reforms.
Aniagwu noted that the ₦10 billion allocation fulfills Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to alleviate the financial strain faced by pensioners and to settle inherited pension debts.
“At today’s session, we sanctioned the release of ₦10 billion to initiate the payment of pension arrears. A committee has been formed to ensure that the funds reach the eligible recipients fairly and without external influence,” Aniagwu stated.
He underscored that this action is part of the administration’s larger initiative aimed at enhancing the welfare of citizens under the MORE Agenda and improving living conditions for senior citizens who have served the state with dedication.
Additionally, Aniagwu shared that the EXCO assessed the timelines for critical infrastructure projects, focusing on two significant flyovers in Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction) that are being constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
He explained, “The timeline for the Agbor flyover has been adjusted from 24 months to 18 months, while the Ughelli flyover’s duration has been shortened from 24 months to 14 months.
“These modifications aim to expedite project completion, enhancing transportation and stimulating economic activity.”
Aniagwu also mentioned that the council reviewed the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) presented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, as part of preparations for the upcoming 2026 budget, which will be submitted to the Delta State House of Assembly soon.
He announced that EXCO terminated several ineffective contracts statewide to promote efficient project execution and ensure value for funds spent.
“Some contractors did not meet the expected performance standards. Given that the government promptly mobilizes and pays for verified work, we cannot permit delays or negligence,” he remarked.
One of the impacted projects includes the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu–Uku to Ogwashi-Uku Road, which will be reassessed and awarded to a qualified contractor to align with the governor’s commitment to improving access to communities across all 25 local government areas.
Aniagwu also confirmed the council’s endorsement for the official presentation of the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Engr. Mike Oghenovo Orugbo, Okporua I, the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, after his installation by the kingdom’s kingmakers.
The Commissioner reiterated the administration’s dedication to transparent, citizen-focused governance and the accelerated renewal of infrastructure across Delta State.
“Governor Oborevwori has made it clear that projects must provide real benefits to the people of Delta. We will not hesitate to take action when contractors fall short, keeping the interests of our citizens at heart,” Aniagwu concluded.
He assured that the Oborevwori administration will continue to focus on human welfare, infrastructure development, and institutional reforms aimed at promoting sustainable growth and prosperity for all residents of Delta State.
