Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State says his administration has abolished the arbitrary upward review of contract sums in order to promote accountability, ensure value for money and protect public resources of the State.
He stated this 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.
He said, “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. This is a major step towards transparency and responsible financial management in line with the Delta State Public Procurement Law of 2020.”
The governor nited that the move was part of a broader commitment under his MORE Agenda – Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security – to strengthen good governance and uphold fiscal discipline.
He noted that the Government’s partnership with the legislature had also yielded landmark laws in the electricity and health sectors, among others, as part of efforts to deepen the rule of law and transparency in governance.
“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,” the governor said.
Governor Oborevwori, who took the first reading from Isaiah 32:15–18, reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to sustain the independence of the judiciary, enhance its infrastructure, and make justice more accessible and efficient.
Highlighting his administration’s reforms in the public service, the governor recalled the approval of a 158 percent increase in Delta’s minimum wage regime in October 2024, surpassing the Federal Government’s 133 percent, as part of its efforts to motivate workers and strengthen institutional efficiency.
He also said that over ₦70 billion had been released to clear outstanding state pension arrears, including a fresh ₦10 billion intervention to the State Pensions Board, with an additional ₦2 billion released monthly to sustain payments.
On social welfare, Governor Oborevwori said the Government had launched a Widows’ Welfare Scheme, providing free healthcare and monthly stipends to 10,000 widows across the State, describing it as a reflection of the human face of his MORE Agenda.
He also listed several youth empowerment programmes which are helping thousands of small businesses and artisans become self-reliant and economically active.
Prospecting the future, Governor Oborevwori pledged continued investment in judicial infrastructure and technology, including automatic recording systems, e-filing, e-payment, and virtual hearing facilities in courts across the state.
He urged all arms of Government to remain united in the pursuit of justice and fairness, emphasising that peace and progress could only thrive where the rule of law prevails.
