---
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the release of ₦8.4 billion to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) to settle long-standing contract debts accumulated between 2010 and 2023.
The funding intervention is aimed at restoring contractor confidence, boosting grassroots development, and stimulating economic activities across oil-producing communities in the state.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Communication, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, announced the approval while briefing journalists at Government House, Asaba, following a meeting between the Governor and DESOPADEC management.
Aniagwu stated that the payment would cover verified executed projects, noting that contractors owed ₦20 million and below would receive full payment, while those owed above ₦20 million would be paid 50 per cent in the first tranche.
He said the move reflects Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to addressing inherited obligations, consistent with the administration’s MORE Agenda — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
“You will recall that not long ago, His Excellency directed the release of ₦10 billion to the State Pension Bureau to offset outstanding pension liabilities, alongside previous interventions on promotion arrears. Despite many of these burdens predating his administration, he has continued to tackle them with courage and compassion,” Aniagwu noted.
Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor, lauded the Governor for the approval, describing it as a decisive step in restoring trust and ensuring continuity of developmental projects in oil-bearing communities.
He explained that the debts cover projects such as road construction, school rehabilitation, water schemes, jetties, and other community-based developments. Ochonogor added that the funds would only be disbursed after a thorough audit and verification process as directed by the Governor to ensure accountability and transparency.
The initiative has been widely welcomed across oil-producing areas, where communities have long anticipated progress on key infrastructure and development projects.