ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved 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.
At the same meeting, held Thursday at Government House, Asaba, and presided over by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Council approved the disbursement of ₦10 billion to offset pension arrears inherited from previous administrations.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who was flanked by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen; Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, said the decision underscored Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to improving the welfare of Deltans under the MORE Agenda.
Aniagwu explained that the ₦10 billion disbursement marks the beginning of a phased process to clear outstanding pension liabilities and provide relief to retirees. “A committee has been constituted to ensure that the funds are disbursed transparently and reach only deserving beneficiaries without bias or interference,” he said.
He added that the MTEF presented to the Council sets the fiscal direction for the 2026 budget, focusing on prudence, growth, and inclusive development. “The Governor is committed to ensuring that our 2026 budget reflects people-centered priorities and sustains the development momentum across all sectors,” Aniagwu noted.
The Council also reviewed project timelines for key infrastructural works, including the two flyover projects in Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction), both being handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. According to Aniagwu, the Agbor flyover’s completion period has been reduced from 24 to 18 months, while the Ughelli flyover’s delivery timeline has been shortened from 24 to 14 months to accelerate development and ease movement across the state.
He further disclosed that EXCO terminated several non-performing contracts, stressing that the administration would not condone inefficiency. “The government pays promptly for certified work, so we cannot tolerate delays or negligence. Contractors who fail to meet expectations will be replaced,” he warned.
Among the affected projects is the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu-Uku to Ogwashi-Uku Road, which he said would be reviewed and re-awarded to a more competent contractor in line with Governor Oborevwori’s resolve to open up rural communities across Delta’s 25 local government areas.
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 kingmakers of the kingdom.
Reiterating the administration’s unwavering focus on transparency, accountability, and accelerated infrastructure renewal, Aniagwu said, “Governor Oborevwori has mad
e it clear that every project must deliver value to the people. Where contractors fail, government will act decisively in the interest of Deltans.”
He assured that the state government will continue to prioritize human welfare, infrastructural development, and institutional reforms that foster sustainable growth and prosperity across Delta State.
