The Delta State Government says its ongoing investment in rural roads and stormwater drainage infrastructure is already delivering tangible benefits across communities, with several projects nearing completion.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, gave the assurance on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing projects in Osubi, Okuokoko, Ugolo-Okpe and adjoining communities in Okpe Local Government Area.
Projects inspected include the 15.75-kilometre Orerokpe–Okulohoh–Oviri Road, the 12.65-kilometre Okwitolor–Okobia–Arhagba Road, and a major stormwater drainage system along the Osubi–Okuokoko–Ugolo-Okpe corridor.
Addressing journalists, Aniagwu said the stormwater drainage project was designed to tackle perennial flooding that had previously submerged homes and disrupted livelihoods during the rainy season.
According to him, the drainage system channels runoff from several communities into the Agbaru River, adding that much of the underground sewer network has been completed, with surface drains now being installed to complement the buried lines.
He also reported notable progress on road construction works, stating that asphalt laying had commenced on some sections after the completion of earthworks and sand-filling.
At the Orerokpe–Okulohoh–Oviri Road site, Aniagwu praised Obakpor Engineering Construction Company for what he described as strong mobilisation and steady progress, noting that more than seven kilometres of binder course had already been laid. He quoted the contractor as projecting completion by March.
The commissioner attributed improved contractor performance to the state’s funding policy, which he said includes prompt mobilisation payments of up to 40 per cent and fast-tracked settlement of certified job certificates.
“Once work is certified, payment does not take long. That is why contractors are delivering faster and with better quality,” Aniagwu said.
He further disclosed that over 70 per cent of the 2026 state budget has been earmarked for capital projects, placing Delta among states with what he described as an aggressive infrastructure spending profile. He added that more than ₦1 trillion has been allocated for infrastructure in the coming year.
Explaining the technical design of the drainage project, Aniagwu said the size and capacity of drains vary based on projected water flow, with some sections measuring up to 2 metres by 2 metres at discharge points and others linked to underground lines through access manholes for maintenance.
He appealed to residents affected by temporary disruptions during construction to exercise patience, assuring them that the project would significantly reduce flooding and improve environmental conditions when completed.
At the Okwitolor–Okobia–Arhagba Road project site, Aniagwu said the road cuts across two local government areas, opening up fast-growing communities and agricultural belts to better access and economic activity.
He also warned contractors against compromising standards, stressing that the state government would blacklist any firm found to be delivering substandard work.
“Value for money remains our guiding principle. Contractors, whether indigenous or expatriate, are expected to comply strictly with specifications,” he said.
The commissioner urged residents to continue supporting the Oborevwori administration, describing the governor as prudent and transparent.
He added that despite not borrowing from any financial institution, the government has continued to meet its financial obligations to contractors.
Aniagwu reaffirmed that any delays in certificate processing occur within ministries and agencies and not at the governor’s office, noting that the administration remains committed to completing projects that meet engineering standards and serve long-term public needs.
“From rural roads to drainage systems, our focus is on speed, quality and value for money,” he said.