The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) on Thursday approved the release of ₦10 billion to offset part of the pension liabilities owed to retirees in the state.
The meeting, presided over by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, at the Government House, Asaba, was held on the directive of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who is currently on an official engagement outside the state.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, flanked by the Commissioners for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen; Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, said the council deliberated on several memoranda cutting across social welfare, infrastructure, and governance reforms.
Aniagwu explained that the ₦10 billion approval was in fulfillment of Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to easing the hardship of pensioners and reducing the backlog of inherited pension arrears.
“At today’s meeting, we approved the disbursement of ₦10 billion to begin the process of defraying pension arrears. A committee has been set up to ensure the funds reach deserving beneficiaries without bias or interference,” Aniagwu said.
He added that the move aligns with the administration’s MORE Agenda, which prioritizes the welfare of citizens and aims to improve the quality of life for senior citizens who served the state diligently.
Infrastructure Timelines Revised
The Works Commissioner further revealed that EXCO reviewed timelines for key infrastructure projects, including two major flyovers at Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction), both being handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
“The Agbor flyover, initially scheduled for completion in 24 months, has been revised to 18 months, while the Ughelli flyover timeline was reduced from 24 to 14 months. These adjustments will ensure faster delivery to ease traffic and boost economic activities,” he stated.
Aniagwu disclosed that the council also considered the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) presented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning as part of preparations for the 2026 Budget, which will soon be presented to the Delta State House of Assembly.
Judicial Housing and Welfare
In the area of housing, Aniagwu announced that EXCO approved measures to improve the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers through the provision of befitting accommodations and workspaces.
He said the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, has been mandated to oversee the implementation of the initiative to ensure judicial officers operate in dignified and conducive environments.
Non-Performing Contracts Terminated
The Commissioner disclosed that the council also terminated some non-performing contracts across the state to ensure timely project delivery and value for money.
“Some contractors have failed to meet performance expectations, and since government promptly mobilizes and pays for certified work, we cannot tolerate delays or negligence,” he said.
One of the affected projects is the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu-Uku–Ogwashi-Uku Road, which, according to him, will be reviewed and re-awarded to a competent contractor in line with the governor’s resolve to open up communities across the 25 local government areas.
Royal Recognition
Aniagwu also announced the council’s approval for the formal presentation of the Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Engr. Mike Oghenovo Orugbo (Okporua I), the Ovie of Udu Kingdom, following his installation by the kingdom’s kingmakers.
Commitment to Good Governance
The Commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to people-oriented governance, transparency, and accelerated infrastructural renewal across Delta State.
“Governor Oborevwori has made it clear that every project must deliver value to Deltans. Where contractors fail, the government will act decisively in the interest of the people,” Aniagwu said.
He assured that the administration will continue to prioritize human welfare, infrastructural development, and institutional reforms aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for all Deltans.
