ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has approved a ₦3.55 billion payment as counterpart funding for the state’s 2024 Universal Basic Education Programme.
This was announced by the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, during a press briefing on Wednesday, following the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.
In addition to the education funding, the EXCO took decisive steps towards implementing the new minimum wage in the state.
Dr. Osuoza revealed that the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, and the Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, have been directed to engage in discussions with the State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to finalize the details, particularly concerning the consequential adjustments.
“The government is committed to ensuring that the new wage structure is effectively implemented, and discussions with organized labour will address the necessary adjustments,” Dr. Osuoza stated.
The council also approved several infrastructure projects across the state, underscoring Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to meaningful development. These projects include the reconstruction of the Ohoror-Bomadi Road, the construction of the Olomoro-Igbide Road, the Emevor-Ivrogbo-Orogun Road Phase 2, Otekpo Road in Ellu, and several others.
State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, emphasized the broad impact of these approvals, noting that 23 out of Delta’s 25 local government areas will directly benefit. “These projects align with Governor Oborevwori’s development agenda, touching nearly every corner of the state,” Aniagwu said.
The EXCO also addressed environmental concerns, with the approval for the reclamation of a gully erosion site along the Okpanam-Ibusa bypass. Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, explained that this effort is critical for preserving the new road and preventing further environmental degradation.
In the health sector, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, announced the approval for the purchase of two Computerised Tomography (CT) scanning machines. One will be installed at the Central Hospital in Warri and the other at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara.
“This is a significant investment in our healthcare infrastructure, providing essential diagnostic tools for Deltans,” Dr. Onojaeme remarked. He also highlighted the EXCO’s approval for the renovation of over 150 primary health centres across the state, stressing the importance of primary healthcare in addressing the majority of health challenges.
In other decisions, the EXCO approved the appointment of Obi Sunday Ubaka Ogboli as the Obi of Issele-Mkpitime in Aniocha North Local Government Area, further solidifying the government’s commitment to traditional institutions.
Governor Oborevwori also addressed the ongoing economic hardship in the country, directing the Commissioner for Agriculture and the Chief Job Creation Officer to develop programs aimed at alleviating the impact on the state’s youth.
