WARRI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for substandard execution and breach of contractual timelines, expressing displeasure over delays in the ongoing reconstruction of the Warri Stadium.
The governor, who spoke on Tuesday during an inspection of the facility, insisted that contractors must adhere strictly to agreed delivery schedules, warning that failure to meet expectations would not be condoned under his watch.
“I wasn’t smiling because we have an agreement with the contractor. The agreement is for the contractor to finish in December, and now we are in April,” Oborevwori said, underscoring the importance of discipline in project execution.
While expressing concern over the delay, the governor commended the quality of the playing pitch, describing it as satisfactory and in line with global standards.
However, he strongly rejected aspects of the ongoing construction, particularly the cladding, which he described as substandard and unsuitable for a project of such magnitude.
“We have paid for quality, not something that will fade in a few years. This cladding you are seeing is temporary; it will be removed,” he stated, stressing that only durable and long-lasting materials would be accepted.
Oborevwori maintained that the state government would not alter the terms of the existing contract but would ensure full compliance with agreed specifications. He warned that the contractor, identified as Peculiar Consults, would be publicly exposed if it fails to deliver on its obligations.
“If he fails us again, we will expose him,” the governor declared, calling on the media to play an active role in holding contractors accountable.
He further explained that the decision to renovate the existing Warri Stadium, rather than construct a new one, was informed by land constraints and the need to preserve the historical identity of the facility. He added that proposals to relocate residents around the stadium were rejected to safeguard their homes and livelihoods.
Looking ahead, Oborevwori expressed optimism that the upgraded stadium would meet international standards and be capable of hosting major sporting events, reaffirming Delta State’s commitment to sports development.
He also disclosed plans to commence renovation of the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba upon completion of the Warri Stadium project.
In his remarks, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, commended the governor’s commitment, describing the project as a major boost to football development in the state.
Gusau particularly praised the quality of the pitch, noting that it meets modern football standards, while assuring the state government of the federation’s support in maintaining the facility.
He, however, indicated that the stadium may not be ready to host matches until September, adding that the national team could play its first official game at the venue once completed.
Also speaking, Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Phillip Shaibu, lauded the project, describing the stadium’s turf as exceptional and reflective of the state’s commitment to quality sports infrastructure.
He noted that the project represents a collective effort and expressed confidence that the facility would stand the test of time.
