Delta State Remains Financially Strong under Oborevwori’s prudent Leadership — Aniagwu

The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its financial stability, crediting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's commitment to fiscal discipline, prudence, and accountability for the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations without borrowing. Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, highlighted this during a live television interview, emphasizing the governor’s strategic financial management and inclusive development approach.

Delta State is financially solvent and effectively meeting its obligations, thanks to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s prudent financial management, anchored on transparency, fiscal discipline, and accountability. This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a live television interview monitored in Asaba.

Aniagwu noted that despite being underestimated by critics, Governor Oborevwori has consistently proven his leadership competence through strategic governance and tangible achievements across the state.

“Governor Oborevwori is like a book that many judged by its cover, only to realize, upon opening it, that it holds all the answers they thought were missing,” Aniagwu said.

He emphasized that one of the governor’s most underrated qualities is his exceptional financial management. As Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly for six years, Oborevwori returned N500 million in unspent funds to the state coffers at the end of his tenure—an act Aniagwu described as rare among politicians.

According to him, “Delta’s financial strength isn’t due to any magic trick. It’s the result of Governor Oborevwori’s accountability and prudent resource management.”

Aniagwu revealed that at the first Executive Council meeting of 2025, the government approved over N275 billion worth of projects, with contractors receiving an initial 40% mobilization fee—an approach that has accelerated project completion across the state.

“Since the governor assumed office, this 40% upfront payment strategy has ensured that projects move swiftly. Additionally, several projects operate under Irrevocable Standing Payment Orders (ISPO), ensuring consistent monthly payments based on work milestones,” Aniagwu explained.

Despite these extensive infrastructural investments, Aniagwu highlighted that the Oborevwori administration has not borrowed a single kobo. Instead, it has repaid over N240 billion in debts inherited from previous administrations within the last 20 months.

He further noted that “While many focus solely on new projects, it’s equally important to note that we’ve paid off substantial debts, showing the governor’s dedication to long-term fiscal health. Pensioners are being paid promptly, and there’s been no public unrest over unpaid entitlements".

Governor Oborevwori has also implemented cost-saving strategies that have freed up significant resources. Aniagwu explained that the governor negotiated reduced profit margins on contracts where contractors received 40% upfront payments, saving the state N4.5 billion on just five projects.

“By providing contractors with substantial mobilization funds, we eliminated their need to seek expensive loans, and in return, they agreed to lower profit margins. It’s a win-win,” Aniagwu stated.

The governor’s development agenda cuts across all three senatorial districts, ensuring equitable distribution of projects without ethnic or political bias.

Aniagwu emphasized that "Delta is a multi-ethnic state, and Governor Oborevwori has been intentional in spreading development across all communities. Whether or not a local government has strong political connections, the governor ensures they receive their fair share."

He also noted that the administration’s equitable budgeting model has ensured that even marginalized areas benefit from state interventions. In 2024, N1 billion was allocated specifically for rural road projects across all 25 local government areas. Following the success of this initiative, the 2025 budget has allocated N2.1 billion for similar grassroots development projects.

“This approach guarantees that every community, regardless of its political influence, receives government attention,” he added.

Responding to concerns about defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aniagwu likened the situation to a football transfer window, where underperforming players seek new opportunities.

“Those who feel they might not secure a return ticket naturally look for new platforms. But here in Delta, we’re focused on governance, not political distractions,” Aniagwu stated.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends, emphasizing that the governor remains unbothered by political noise and is instead focused on tangible development.

“We challenge anyone to name their local government, and we will list the projects Governor Oborevwori has executed there. The facts speak for themselves,” He concluded.

With a track record of fiscal discipline, strategic investments, and inclusive governance, Governor Oborevwori continues to strengthen Delta State’s financial health while driving sustainable development across all communities.