Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced sweeping reforms aimed at tightening government spending and ensuring greater transparency in public projects.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service to mark the start of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Delta State Judiciary in Asaba, the governor revealed that his administration has abolished arbitrary increases in contract costs, a long-standing practice that often inflated government expenditure.
Under the new policy, all contracts will now include clauses that prohibit post-agreement cost adjustments, ensuring that contractors stick to agreed terms and budgets. Oborevwori said the measure, anchored in the Delta State Public Procurement Law of 2020, reflects his commitment to fiscal discipline and accountability.
He noted that the reform forms part of his administration’s MORE Agenda, an initiative focused on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
Beyond procurement reforms, the governor highlighted progress in other sectors. He said Delta has implemented a 158% minimum wage increase, higher than the federal government’s 133% adjustment to motivate civil servants and boost productivity.
Oborevwori also disclosed that his government had released ₦70 billion to clear pension arrears, with additional monthly allocations to keep payments on track.
The governor announced further investments in judicial technology and infrastructure, including the introduction of e-filing, digital court records, and virtual hearing systems to improve access to justice.
On social welfare, he said the Widows’ Welfare Scheme now supports 10,000 beneficiaries with free healthcare and monthly stipends, while youth-focused programmes such as MORE Grant, MORE Biz-Up, and MORE WISE-Up have helped small businesses and artisans become self-reliant.
Calling for stronger collaboration among the three arms of government, Oborevwori said sustainable peace and progress can only thrive when justice and fairness guide governance.
“We are all partners in service,” he said. “Together, we must build a Delta State where accountability, fairness, and opportunity define our shared future.”
