Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, on Wednesday said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is leading a vibrant and solvent economy, with numerous infrastructure projects spread across the state.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Aniagwu stated that Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated a high level of prudence and accountability in the governance of Delta State.
The Commissioner emphasized that the state’s finances are in a strong position, with contractors being mobilized to project sites and all certified payments made promptly.
“I can tell you with all modesty that we are very solvent as a state. It is not every day you hear a state declare its solvency,” he said.
“We didn’t become solvent because money was being poured on us. We became solvent because our government has consistently applied prudence and accountability in managing the state’s resources.
“Today, we evaluate projects thoroughly before awarding them. Once awarded, we ensure the cost is reasonable so that we are not simply throwing money at unproductive ventures.
“This approach has enabled us to save funds. When people work, we pay them promptly, which allows us to effectively reach out to communities with development projects.
“Our economy today is vibrant, thanks to the developmental initiatives of the Oborevwori administration.”
He further explained that even when contracts are awarded to foreign companies, the benefits still trickle down to local communities.
“For instance, if a road contract is awarded to a company from Kenya or Germany, the workers handling iron bending, concrete mixing, and other related services are sourced from local communities.
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“These workers are paid, and the materials like cement are purchased from local vendors. This means the funds deployed for projects create a ripple effect throughout the state, with a large portion of the money ultimately returning to our people.”
Aniagwu noted that the best way to stimulate the economy is by investing in projects that provide employment and generate real income for citizens.
“The best way to inject money into the economy is not through palliatives, but by getting people to work and earn. When they earn their income, they tend to spend it wisely.
“This approach also helps reduce inflation. But when you simply distribute money say you have a billion naira and you give N100,000 each you risk exacerbating inflationary pressures.”
The Commissioner also reiterated the strategic advantage of the state aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that such alignment would enhance access to federal support for development projects.
“No matter what anyone says about the federal government being for everyone which is true when support is brought to your home, it is natural to first share it among your children before considering the neighbors.
“There is a saying from where I come from: when hunting rabbits, you use the leaves closest to the rabbit hole to cover it not leaves from far away. In other words, being in the same political platform as the center naturally comes with certain advantages. It’s not about bias; it’s just the way things work.”
Aniagwu concluded by affirming Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to ensuring that Deltans receive full value for money on all fronts.
“This approach is also fostering greater unity among our people, strengthening the spirit of ‘One Delta’ in both word and deed.
“By the end of his first term in 2027, and by the grace of God, after his second term in 2031, Deltans will look back and say: ‘Thank God we had a governor like Sheriff Oborevwori.’
“That will bring pride to us as members of his cabinet, and joy to his children, who will be proud of the legacy their father has built.
“Governor Oborevwori is a man who matches his words with actions. He is focused on serving well and leaving office with dignity, honor, and the respect of the people he served.”
