The Delta State Government has approved the disbursement of N10 billion to settle pension liabilities arrears inherited from past administrations.
The state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing the press after the State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Asaba, on Thursday. The session was presided over by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was on official engagement outside the state.
Aniagwu, flanked by his counterparts from Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, and Housing, Mr Godknows Angele, as well as the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, said the council deliberated on several life-impacting memos covering social investment, infrastructure, and governance reforms.
He explained that the N10 billion allocation is part of the governor’s commitment to easing the hardship of pensioners and addressing inherited pension liabilities.
“At today’s meeting, we approved the disbursement of N10 billion to begin the process of defraying pension arrears. A committee has been set up to ensure the funds get to deserving beneficiaries without bias or interference,” Aniagwu said.
The commissioner noted that the move aligns with the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda, aimed at improving citizen welfare and making life more livable for senior citizens who have served the state diligently.
The council also reviewed timelines for key infrastructure projects, including two major flyovers in Agbor (Uromi Junction) and Ughelli (Otovwodo Junction), 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 has been reduced from 24 to 14 months. These adjustments are aimed at delivering the projects faster to ease movement and boost economic activities,” he said.
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Aniagwu added 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 be submitted to the State House of Assembly.
He also revealed that the government had terminated non-performing contracts, including the Igbodo Junction–Ubulu–Uku to Ogwashi-Uku Road, to ensure efficient project delivery and value for money.
“Some contractors have failed to meet performance expectations, and since the government promptly mobilizes and pays for certified work, we cannot allow delays or negligence,” Aniagwu said.
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 kingdom’s kingmakers.
Aniagwu reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to people-oriented governance, transparency, and accelerated infrastructural renewal across the state.
“Gov. Oborevwori has made it clear that projects must deliver value to Deltans. Where contractors fail, we will not hesitate to act in the interest of our people,” he added.
Commissioner Ekedayen noted that the MTEF approval is a necessary step for preparing the 2026 budget, taking into account current realities including crude oil production of 1.7 million barrels per day, an official exchange rate of N1,500 to the dollar, GDP growth of 3.4 per cent, inflation at about 23 per cent, and the state’s internally generated revenue.
“No fixed amount has been pegged as the 2026 budget until the MTEF is approved by the State House of Assembly. However, there will be at least a 50 per cent increase compared with this year. On budget performance, capital projects and current expenditure recorded about 96 per cent and 86 per cent as at June,” he said.
Commissioner Angele announced that the state government had also approved the construction of judges’ quarters comprising 10 four-bedroom duplexes in Asaba and Warri/Osubi. Five duplexes will be built in Asaba, and five in Warri/Osubi.
“The approval is part of the governor’s pledge to provide infrastructure and accommodation for all arms of government—the executive, legislature, and judiciary,” Angele said.
