The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the disbursement of ₦10 billion to begin clearing pension arrears inherited from previous administrations, reaffirming Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to the welfare of retirees.
The decision was reached at Thursday’s EXCO meeting held at Government House, Asaba, presided over by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, on behalf of Governor Oborevwori, who is currently on official engagement outside the state.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the approval fulfills the governor’s promise to ease the hardship faced by pensioners and settle outstanding liabilities.
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 transparent and fair disbursement to deserving beneficiaries,” Aniagwu stated.
He added that the move aligns with the MORE Agenda, which emphasizes welfare, inclusivity, and sustainable development across Delta State.
Aniagwu also disclosed that EXCO reviewed the timelines for major projects being handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, including the Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction) flyovers.
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The Agbor flyover completion time has been reduced from 24 to 18 months.
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The Ughelli flyover will now be completed in 14 months, down from 24 months.
“These adjustments aim to accelerate project delivery, ease traffic flow, and boost economic activities,” he noted.
EXCO also reviewed the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) presented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, as part of preparations for the 2026 budget.
In a move to enhance accountability, the council terminated several non-performing contracts across the state for failing to meet performance standards. One of the affected projects is the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu-Uku–Ogwashi-Uku Road, which will be reassigned to a more competent contractor.
Also, 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.
Aniagwu reaffirmed that Governor Oborevwori’s administration remains focused on people-oriented governance, infrastructure renewal, and transparency.
The governor has made it clear that every project must deliver value to Deltans. Contractors who fail to meet expectations will be replaced in the people’s interest,” he said.
The administration, he assured, will continue prioritizing human welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms for sustainable growth across all 25 local government areas of the state.
