OBOREVWORI’S INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE IN DELTA DELIVERING TANGIBLE RESULTS — Aniagwu

Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has reaffirmed the state government’s resolve to fast-track the delivery of critical rural roads and stormwater drainage projects across the stat, stating that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s aggressive infrastructure drive is already yielding visible results.

Aniagwu gave the assurance on Thursday during an extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects in Osubi, Okuokoko, Ugolo-Okpe and neighbouring communities, including the 15.75km Orerokpe–Okulohoh–Oviri Road and the 12.5km Okwitolor–Okobia–Arhagba Road, all in Okpe Local Government Area.

Speaking to journalists, the Commissioner said the stormwater drainage project spanning the Osubi–Okuokoko–Ugolo-Okpe axis was designed to resolve the perennial flooding that previously submerged homes during the rainy season.

“Before now, a number of houses usually got submerged during the rainy season. This drainage project is meant to evacuate stormwater from several communities and channel it through the Agbaru River,” he explained. 

“Much of the drainage system has already been buried. What you are seeing now are surface drains complementing the underground sewer lines to control water and enable landowners to develop their properties.”

Aniagwu reported significant progress on the road components, noting that contractors had begun asphalt laying on some stretches after completing sand-filling and earthworks. He expressed optimism that many of the projects would be ready for commissioning early in the new year.

At the 15.7km Orerokpe-Okulohoh-Oviri-Okpe Road, the Commissioner lauded Obakpor Engineering Construction Company, the indigenous contractor handling the project, saying over seven kilometres of binder course had already been laid.

“There is impressive mobilisation here, both in equipment and manpower,” he said. “The contractor has assured that by March, the road will be completed. And as long as a contractor achieves milestones, the government doesn’t delay payments. Bring the certificates and Oborevwori pays.” He emphasized.

Aniagwu reiterated that Governor Oborevwori’s policy of paying up to 40 percent mobilisation and promptly honouring certified job progress has improved contractor performance and speed across the state.

He also highlighted the 2026 budget’s allocation of over 70 percent to capital projects, saying it places Delta among the few states in Nigeria with such an aggressive infrastructure ratio.

With over ₦1 trillion going into infrastructure next year, we are ensuring ongoing projects give way for new ones. This reflects the governor’s commitment to meaningful development across all three senatorial districts.”

On the ongoing stormwater drainage, Aniagwu clarified that variations in drain sizes depend on the expected water volume at different points. 

He said some sections measure as wide as 2m by 2m at downstream discharge points, while other areas include surface drains connected to buried sewer lines, supported by manholes for easy maintenance.

He assured residents that temporary disruptions caused by unexpected rainfall would soon be resolved, adding that the project is designed to prevent future flooding and improve environmental conditions.

Inspecting the 12.65km Okwitolor–Okobia–Arhagba Road, Aniagwu said the project cuts across two local government areas and opens up several fast-growing communities.

“Okwitolor, Okobia and Arhagba are not small villages. These roads crisscross agricultural belts and connect multiple communities. This is why we always say: tell us your local government, and we will tell you what is being done there by Governor Oborevwori.”

He praised both indigenous and expatriate contractors for improving on quality, speed and compliance with engineering standards, noting that the governor has vowed to blacklist any contractor delivering substandard work.

“Value for money is the focus. Whether in drainage construction or asphalt laying, we are seeing better quality and faster delivery. The governor did not miss the point when he insisted on strict adherence to specifications.”

On his advice to Deltans, he urged continued support for the administration. “The people trust Oborevwori because he is prudent and transparent. He has not borrowed a dime from any financial institution, yet contractors are being paid promptly. No contractor remains unpaid unless the certificate has issues. Once certified, payment comes in less than 48 hours.”

He restated that any delays in processing certificates occur within MDAs and not at the governor’s table, insisting that the administration will continue to deliver infrastructure that stands the test of time.

“As you have seen today, from stormwater drains to rural roads, the governor’s charge to all of us is yielding fruits. Speed, quality and value for money are now the standard,” Aniagwu said.