…vows tougher accountability, better welfare, stronger justice system
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that his administration has completely abolished the arbitrary upward review of contract sums in the state to entrench accountability, ensure value for money, and safeguard public resources.
The governor made the disclosure on Monday at the thanksgiving service marking the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Delta State Judiciary, held at Emmanuel the Saviour Catholic Church, Asaba.
“We have ended the old practice of arbitrary review of contract sums and variations after agreements have been signed. Today, every state contract contains a clause that prevents such adjustments, and no contractor receives payment without a duly executed agreement,” Oborevwori stated.
He described the measure as a decisive step toward transparency and responsible financial management, fully aligned with the Delta State Public Procurement Law of 2020.
Governor Oborevwori said the policy forms a key part of his administration’s MORE Agenda, Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security, which emphasizes prudent governance and fiscal discipline.
According to him, collaboration between the executive and the legislature has also produced landmark laws in critical sectors such as electricity and healthcare, reinforcing the rule of law and transparency in public administration.
“Our efforts in justice infrastructure, procurement, and law-making reflect our belief that democracy thrives best when there is synergy among the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary,” he affirmed.
Taking the first reading from Isaiah 32:15–18, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to judicial independence, institutional reform, and efficient justice delivery across the state.
Highlighting achievements in public service reform, the governor recalled the 158 percent increase in Delta’s minimum wage approved in October 2024, surpassing the Federal Government’s 133 percent as part of ongoing efforts to motivate workers and boost productivity.
He further disclosed that over ₦70 billion has been released to settle outstanding pension arrears, including a recent ₦10 billion intervention to the State Pensions Board and an additional ₦2 billion monthly allocation to sustain payments.
On social welfare, Governor Oborevwori highlighted the introduction of the Widows’ Welfare Scheme, which provides free healthcare and monthly stipends to 10,000 widows across the state, a gesture he described as “a true reflection of the human face of governance under the MORE Agenda.”
He also mentioned several youth empowerment programmes, MORE Grant Scheme, MORE WISE-Up, MORE ICT, and MORE Biz-Up, all designed to equip young Deltans, artisans, and small business owners with skills, funding, and opportunities for economic independence.
Looking ahead, the governor pledged to expand investment in judicial infrastructure and technology, including automatic recording systems, e-filing, e-payment, and virtual hearing facilities to enhance efficiency and access to justice across Delta State.
“The executive, legislature, and judiciary are partners in service. Each arm depends on the other to function effectively. Together, we must continue to uphold the rule of law and ensure that every Deltan can live, work, and dream in a society governed by justice and fairness,” Oborevwori urged.
Earlier in his homily, the Bishop of Issele-Uku Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, charged judicial officers to discharge their duties with integrity, courage, and the fear of God, describing judges as “partners with God in the administration of justice.”
The event drew top government functionaries, members of the bench and bar, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the state, all gathered to rededicate the judiciary to a new year of fairness, discipline, and service.
