…Also, Reconstruction Of Warri Ring, Ugbolu-Illah, Other Roads/Projects
By Oghenemega Augustin
Delta State Government (DTSG) has approved an empowerment programme of ₦250,000 each for 15,000 indigent persons across the 25 local government areas of the state to support small businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and cushion economic challenges.
The approval was among the major decisions taken at the State Executive Council (Exco) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, which also approved several road construction and rehabilitation projects, agricultural land compensation, healthcare outreach programmes and educational infrastructure.
Briefing journalists after the meeting held yesterday at the Exco Chambers, Government House, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu said the empowerment programme would be implemented through the state government’s social investment office in the coming weeks.
Mr. Aniagwu explained that beneficiaries would be selected based on established criteria, including belonging to the indigent population, operating a nano or micro business, or intending to establish one.
According to him, the initiative is designed to improve the purchasing power of vulnerable residents, strengthen small businesses and make economic opportunities more accessible across the state.
The State Exco, he said, also approved compensation for land acquired in the Central Senatorial District for agricultural development, as part of efforts to attract large-scale farmers, expand existing agricultural enterprises and strengthen the state’s land bank for farming.
Aniagwu disclosed that the initiative, which followed discussions at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, is expected to improve access to suitable agricultural land for investors and local farmers.
“In preparation for the 2027 fiscal year, the council approved the state’s Economic and Fiscal Update, Fiscal Strategy Paper and Budget Policy Paper to guide the preparation of next year’s budget,” he added.
The Commissioner expressed optimism that improved exchange-rate stability would support fiscal planning, while acknowledging possible fluctuations in international crude oil prices and their implications for revenue from the Federation Account.
…Also Reconstruction Of Warri Ring, Ugbolu-Illah, Other Roads/Projects
The State Executive Council (Exco) has also approved the reconstruction and rehabilitation of several roads across the state, including the first phase of the Warri Ring Road, the Ugbolu-Illah Road and major roads in Warri and Effurun.
Among the major approvals is the reconstruction of the first phase of the Warri Ring Road, covering the stretch from First Marine Gates to Port Gate. The Council also approved the rehabilitation of the road from Old Port Gate to the NPA Expressway.
Other approved works, according to Charles Aniagwu, include rapid rehabilitation and asphalt overlay on Airport Road, Warri; Jakpa Road in Effurun and Refinery Road, Effurun.
He said the projects were aimed at improving road conditions, easing traffic movement and addressing infrastructure challenges in the Warri-Effurun axis.
He said the rehabilitation of Refinery Road had become urgent because of its deteriorating condition and the difficulties it posed to motorists and residents.
According to him, Governor Oborevwori directed the relevant Ministry of Works to assess the road and submit a proposal to the council for approval.
The council also approved an extension of the ongoing flyover project at Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, as well as additional works on the adjoining road corridor. A similar extension was approved for the flyover project at Agbor towards the College Junction in the area.
In Oshimili North Local Government Area, the council approved the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Ugbolu-Illah Road. It also approved the construction of Dr. Sunday Okonji Drive, Opone Street and Dr. and Mrs. Ojogho Street.
The completion of Chief Patrick Ukah Way in Okpanam, leading towards Okotomi Quarters, was also approved.
In Udu Local Government Area, the council approved the construction of A.I. Mofo Street in Otor-Udu, while the construction of Iwezue Street in Boji-Boji was also listed among the projects approved even as the reconstruction of Emede Internal Road in Isoko South Local Government Area was equally approved in two phases.
At Obiaruku in Ukwuani Local Government Area, the council approved the construction of Eziokpor Road Phase II, including a spur to Odalonu Street.
Other approved projects in Okpe Local Government Area are Eyimofe Street in Orerokpe, Guest House Road in Ugbokodo and Zion Street in Ughoton.
In Asaba, the council approved the construction of Paul Enebeli Close, Opene Street, Waterholic Street and Flourish Garden Apartment Lane, including a spur to Princess Ajudua Extension. The construction of Oyemike Street, with another spur off Ralph Uwhechue Road, was also approved.
Beyond road infrastructure, the council approved the construction of permanent office buildings for the Delta State Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Rural Development Agency.
Aniagwu said the electricity regulatory commission’s office would support the state’s efforts to develop its electricity market following reforms that have expanded the role of state governments in the power sector.
He said the state was working to take advantage of the new regulatory framework to strengthen its electricity sector.
The council also approved an ultra-modern MBA lecture theatre at Delta State University, Abraka, and a clubhouse for civil servants at the State Secretariat in Asaba.
Aniagwu said the government remained focused on implementing its development plans and delivering projects across the state, adding that preparations for the 2027 general elections would not distract the administration from its responsibilities.
