As part of deliberate efforts aimed at ensuring that contractors handling various projects for the Delta State Government adhere strictly to the Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME), the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori recently embarked on an inspection of some projects being executed by the state government. The projects inspected included the ongoing reconstruction of the Warri Township Stadium, the multibillion-naira Udu Harbour Market, Flyover, and Storm Drainage, among other projects.
Fielding questions from journalists at the Warri Township Stadium during the inspection, Governor Oborevwori expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress and reaffirmed his commitment to quality and timely delivery of the project. He expressed confidence in the contractors’ capacity to deliver a world-class facility that will serve the people of Warri and beyond, noting that the project was already boosting local economic activities, with over 176 youths employed on-site.
“We are confident that the contractor will deliver on time. A new indoor sports hall is under construction, and residents are already benefiting from the renovation. Once completed, the Warri people will be proud, and visitors will enjoy a modern facility,” he said.
Oborevwori emphasised that the stadium, once completed, would not only serve as a hub for sports and entertainment but also symbolise the town’s growing sports reputation, especially with Warri Wolves Football Club qualifying for the Premier League.
The Governor disclosed that although the initial plan was to build an entirely new stadium, the government opted for a comprehensive renovation of the existing structure due to limited available land in the area. He added that a hospitality suite is being considered as part of the modernisation efforts.
Governor Oborevwori, who inspected the facilities under reconstruction, which included the steelwork at the main bowl, a FIFA-standard football pitch, underground drainage systems, and an Olympic-size swimming pool, among others, said his visit marked a significant milestone in ensuring that contractors remain accountable for delivering quality work within the scheduled timeline.
Also speaking, the project contractor, Engr. Olaruwaju Adeleke of Peculiar Concern Limited assured that the stadium would be completed on time, saying, “We are three months into the project and have completed 100 per cent of the steel fabrication and erection, except for a few open areas. Work is currently ongoing on the pitch.”
Engr. Adeleke, who projected that by December, the running track and the pitch grassing would be completed, clarified that while the stadium may not be ready for the current Premier League season, it is expected to be fully operational by the next.
“The Premier League season will start very soon, so we may not use the stadium for this season. But we are optimistic that the Warri Wolves will return to their home ground next season,” he added.
In a related development, a wave of jubilation swept through Warri, Effurun, and Udu as Governor Oborevwori visited the area to inspect the multibillion-naira Udu Harbour Market, Flyover, and Storm Drainage projects.
The inspection, part of the Governor’s effort to ensure quality and timely delivery of projects under his MORE Agenda, was met with cheering crowds and enthusiastic market women who trooped out to welcome and commend Oborevwori, whose administration is fast becoming synonymous with visible, people-centred development across the state.
With impressive progress recorded at the massive storm drainages and other flood control systems and ongoing structural works at both the flyover and the modern market, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to deliver quality infrastructure that will enhance commerce, connectivity, and the quality of life for Deltans.
Speaking during the inspection, Governor Oborevwori said the Udu Harbour Market, which comprises 604 lock-up shops, 120 open stalls, a modern abattoir, and other facilities, is one of the largest in Delta State. He described the project as a potential game-changer expected to stimulate economic growth and open up new revenue streams for residents.
“This market is a strategic economic project. When completed, it will bring long-term benefits to our people and boost local commerce,” he said, noting that the market, alongside key road constructions such as Opete Road, Orhuwhorun Road, and Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh Road, and others, reflects his administration’s determination to develop every part of the state.
Debunking claims of marginalisation, Governor Oborevwori emphasised that projects are ongoing across all senatorial districts and local governments in the state, saying, “I am an Urhobo man, but I am not just for the Urhobo nation, I am for all Deltans.”
While saying that all ongoing projects are fully funded with no delays in contractual payments, he disclosed that “there is no place in Nigeria where contractors are not owed, except here in Delta,” even as he urged contractors to maintain quality and meet delivery deadlines.
At the Enerhen Junction Flyover site, Governor Oborevwori explained that the infrastructure was designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve access to key areas, just as he assured that more projects would be initiated across the state under his MORE Agenda.
The Governor, who sympathised with motorists over past delays, assured them that the flyovers would soon ease movement in the area, pointing out that “it is encouraging to see the people’s excitement. Their support shows we are on the right path.” The Governor made this remark as his inspection attracted applause from residents, traders, and motorists, who hailed his developmental strides.
He commended Julius Berger, the contractor handling the flyovers, for upholding high construction standards, noting that “the ramps and fillings are done, and final asphalting will soon begin.”
Highlighting the positive impact of his administration’s efforts on the citizens, Governor Oborevwori, who was shown round the gigantic projects by the Julius Berger Project Manager, Thamos Haut Haug, noted that his administration’s efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure are driven by a people-centred approach, aimed at enhancing the quality of life of Deltans.
The Governor, also, inspected Phase III of the Airport Road, Ugborikoko, Ugboroke, and Environs Flood Control Project under the Warri/Uvwie and Environs Development Agency, reiterating his administration’s commitment to urban renewal and erosion control, saying, “We will continue to do more for our people. This is just the beginning.”
