By Anne Azuka
The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) on Thursday approved the disbursement of ₦10 billion to offset pension liabilities inherited from previous administrations in the state.
The meeting, presided over by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, was held at Government House, Asaba, on the directive of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who is on official engagement outside the state.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, flanked by his counterparts 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 life-impacting memos spanning social investment, infrastructure, and governance reforms.
Aniagwu explained that the ₦10 billion approval was in fulfillment of Governor Oborevwori’s pledge to ease the hardship of pensioners and clear outstanding arrears.
“At today’s meeting, we approved the disbursement of ₦10 billion to begin the process of defraying pension arrears. A committee has been constituted to ensure the funds reach deserving beneficiaries without bias or interference,” Aniagwu stated.
He said the move forms part of the administration’s broader commitment to citizens’ welfare under the MORE Agenda, particularly to improve the well-being of senior citizens who served the state diligently.
Aniagwu also revealed that EXCO reviewed timelines for key infrastructure projects, including two major flyovers in 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 will now be completed within 14 months,” he said. “These adjustments are designed to fast-track project delivery, ease movement, and stimulate economic growth.”
He further disclosed that the Council 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 laid before the Delta State House of Assembly.
The Commissioner noted that EXCO also terminated certain non-performing contracts to ensure accountability and efficient project delivery.
“Some contractors have failed to meet performance expectations, and since the government promptly mobilizes and pays for certified work, we cannot allow negligence or undue delay,” Aniagwu emphasized.
Among the affected projects is the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu-Uku–Ogwashi-Uku Road, which he said would be reviewed and re-awarded to a competent contractor in line with the governor’s determination to open up rural communities across the 25 local government areas.
Aniagwu also announced that the Council approved 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 kingmakers.
He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to people-oriented governance, transparency, and rapid infrastructural renewal across the state.
“Governor Oborevwori has made it clear that projects must deliver real value to Deltans. Where contractors fail, we will not hesitate to act in the interest of our people,” Aniagwu stressed.
He assured that the Oborevwori administration will continue to prioritize human welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms to ensure sustainable development and prosperity for all Deltans.
