Delta Terminates Contracts Over Poor Performance, Approves Fresh Road Projects

The Delta State Government has terminated contracts for several projects over poor performance, warning contractors against delays and abandonment of government-funded projects.

The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the resolutions of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Aniagwu said the affected projects include the Okerenkoko Township Road, Adjei Street and School Road in a new layout in Warri South, and the permanent office complex of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC).

According to him, the contracts were terminated following recommendations by the State Tenders Board after the contractors failed to execute the projects at the expected pace.

He said the government would commence fresh procurement processes to re-award the projects to contractors with the capacity to deliver them.

The commissioner said the decision was part of the administration’s efforts to ensure timely completion of public projects and prevent taxpayers’ funds from being tied down in abandoned or poorly executed projects.

The council also approved the reconstruction of the 9.35-kilometre Ezhionum–Ogume Road at an estimated cost of more than N7 billion.

Aniagwu said the project would improve connectivity, open up rural communities and stimulate economic activities in the area.

Other road projects approved by the council include the reconstruction of Uba Egbelemeji–Ugbenikoko Road in Warri North; rehabilitation and reconstruction of Mosogar Community Road Junction–Okwueka Road; and the rebuilding of the Old Oviorie–Agbarho–Eku Road.

The council further approved the completion of storm drainage works around the Specialist Hospital in Asaba to address flooding in the area.

It also approved the reconstruction of internal roads at Warri Central Hospital to improve accessibility and movement for patients, medical personnel and visitors.

Beyond road infrastructure, the government approved the rehabilitation and reconstruction of primary and secondary schools across the state.

Aniagwu said the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education had been directed to assess schools across the 25 local government areas and identify those requiring rehabilitation or complete reconstruction.

The commissioner said the intervention was aimed at creating safer and more conducive learning environments for pupils, students and teachers.

On workers’ welfare, he disclosed that the council approved the construction of 12 additional duplexes for permanent secretaries.

He added that the state was also working on a proposal, to be backed by legislation, for the payment of a 13th-month salary to civil servants in recognition of their contributions to the state.

The council also approved additional residential quarters for members of the State House of Assembly following the increase in constituencies from 29 to 38, resulting in nine additional legislative seats.

Aniagwu said the Ministry of Housing had been directed to commence the process of providing accommodation for the incoming lawmakers.

Similarly, the council approved 92 residential quarters for medical personnel at Osubi Specialist Hospital, comprising 24 units for resident doctors and 68 units for house officers.

He said the housing project was part of efforts to improve the welfare and working conditions of healthcare professionals in the state.