…Reaffirms Delta’s Commitment to Federal Collaboration on Works and Transport Network
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for innovation, sustainability, and equity in the planning, financing, and execution of Nigeria’s infrastructure projects, emphasizing that true national development can only be achieved through strong collaboration among all tiers of government and active private sector participation.
The Governor made the call on Thursday at the 30th Meeting of the National Council on Works, held in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. He was represented by the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze.
Oborevwori described the annual gathering as more than a meeting of professionals and policymakers, but as a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s collective resolve to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure landscape.
Highlighting Delta State’s commitment to infrastructure as a driver of socioeconomic transformation, the Governor said his administration’s MORE Agenda prioritizes rural road expansion, modernization of urban infrastructure, and improved connectivity across the state.
“From the creeks and coastal communities of the Niger Delta to the urban centres of Asaba, Warri, and Ughelli, our people understand that roads, bridges, and public works are not just physical structures—they are lifelines of opportunity, access, and unity,” Oborevwori stated.
He reaffirmed that his administration has sustained continuity in governance by completing inherited projects while initiating new ones that reflect the aspirations of Deltans.
The Governor commended the Federal Ministry of Works for sustaining proactive funding mechanisms, especially the continuation of NNPCL-funded projects under the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, describing it as “pragmatic, forward-looking, and essential to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s road network.”
Oborevwori also urged the Council to explore innovative financing models that blend public investment with private capital to guarantee efficiency, transparency, and value for money.
He further called for climate-resilient and environmentally sound infrastructure, stressing that sustainability and equity must guide national development efforts. “All regions of Nigeria, regardless of geography or population, deserve fair access to quality infrastructure that drives inclusive growth,” he added.
Reiterating Delta’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government and other states, the Governor assured that Delta would continue to contribute its experience and commitment to national infrastructure development.
Host Governor, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, in his welcome address, commended the gathering of engineers and policymakers, describing them as key drivers of the nation’s infrastructural future. He pledged Ekiti State’s commitment to engineering-driven growth through innovation and partnerships.
“Engineers are the backbone of progress. Their creativity and expertise will help us build a brighter, more prosperous Nigeria,” Oyebanji said, while appreciating President Bola Tinubu for ongoing federal interventions in Ekiti’s road projects.
In his remarks, Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, represented by Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goroyon, Esq., praised President Tinubu’s steadfast commitment to infrastructure renewal under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Umahi noted that the National Council on Works serves as a strategic platform to shape infrastructure policy and engineering practice nationwide, calling for discipline, transparency, and innovation in project delivery.
“Discipline ensures professionalism and ethical conduct. Transparency builds trust and public confidence. Innovation enables us to meet modern infrastructure demands using technologies such as drone mapping, geotechnical analysis, and climate-resilient materials,” Umahi stated.
The 30th Council Meeting brought together federal and state officials, engineers, policymakers, and representatives of key professional bodies, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).