In a compelling revelation on national television, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has highlighted how Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is maintaining tranquility and stability across the state by ensuring an equitable spread of developmental initiatives in every local government area. Speaking on Friday during an engaging segment on TVC’s Politics Tonight, Aniagwu emphasized that the governor's commitment to inclusive governance and wise stewardship of public funds has not only bolstered infrastructure but also enhanced transparency, accountability, and the people's faith in their leaders.
The Oborevwori administration, which assumed office in 2023, operates under a robust framework defined by four core pillars: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security. These principles, as Aniagwu explained, act as the benchmark for evaluating the government's achievements and guiding its daily operations. "From day one, the governor insisted that the people's money must directly benefit the people," Aniagwu declared. He praised Oborevwori for introducing unprecedented levels of openness in governance, noting that the administration has refrained from taking any loans from financial institutions. Instead, it has focused on careful resource management while successfully paying down more than 50 percent of the debts inherited from previous regimes.
This prudent approach has paved the way for a massive infrastructure push that spans all 25 local government areas in Delta State. The initiatives encompass extensive road networks, bridge constructions, and projects aimed at improving connectivity in rural and remote regions. In a move designed to democratize development, each local government was allocated ₦1 billion specifically for rural road projects in the 2024 budget. This figure was subsequently increased to ₦2.1 billion in the 2025 budget proposal, with plans already in place to raise it further to ₦5 billion by 2026. Aniagwu stressed that this systematic funding model has completely eradicated any form of political favoritism in project distribution, guaranteeing that even the most isolated communities experience tangible government intervention.
"Today, in every single local government area, the unmistakable marks of Governor Oborevwori's leadership are evident," Aniagwu asserted. He clarified that projects are awarded and executed purely on the basis of need and equity, not influenced by electoral considerations or political affiliations. "The governor is unwavering in his belief that every citizen of Delta State, regardless of location or background, deserves equal access to progress and essential services." This philosophy has transformed the landscape, bringing government closer to the grassroots and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
To illustrate the governor's dedication to broad-based growth, Aniagwu pointed to several flagship projects currently underway. These include critical bridge developments in Orere and Asabasi, which are set to revolutionize transportation and trade in those areas. Additionally, rural road linkages are being prioritized in underserved communities such as Usiri in Ndokwa East, Bulu-Angiama in Patani, Uduophori, and Gbaregolor. These efforts are not mere announcements but active constructions that connect forgotten villages to mainstream economic activities, facilitating easier movement of goods, people, and services.
Aniagwu directly linked the current era of peace in Delta State to this fair distribution of resources, particularly the targeted development of oil-producing and riverine communities that have historically felt marginalized. "In the past, citizens often grumbled that projects remained stuck in planning phases—forever in the pipeline," he recalled. "But under Governor Oborevwori, we've pulled them out of the pipeline and firmly planted them on the ground." When residents witness their local clinics being renovated, roads being smoothly tarred, and schools receiving much-needed upgrades, it reinvigorates their trust in the system. This visibility of progress, Aniagwu argued, naturally diminishes grievances and reduces the likelihood of unrest or agitation.
Further bolstering accountability, the administration has rolled out a innovative whistleblower policy. Citizens are empowered to report any instances of shoddy workmanship or corruption in project execution via a dedicated hotline, complete with photographic or video evidence. Remarkably, Governor Oborevwori personally reviews these submissions and ensures prompt action. "If you provide proof of substandard work, the governor responds directly," Aniagwu revealed. "This hands-on oversight has compelled everyone—from contractors to officials—to perform at their best, knowing that laxity will not be tolerated."
In a significant financial gesture, the governor recently authorized the disbursement of ₦8.4 billion to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC). This fund is intended to settle long-standing debts owed to contractors, some dating as far back as 2010. Contractors with outstanding payments up to ₦20 million have been paid in full, while those with larger arrears received at least 50 percent as an initial installment. This clearance not only honors past commitments but also restores confidence among vendors and stimulates further economic activity.
Beyond infrastructure, the administration has made strides in public sector welfare. Arrears related to civil service promotions have been fully addressed, and substantial headway has been made on pension obligations, with approximately ₦10 billion released to clear backlogs. These measures underscore Oborevwori's holistic approach to governance, where fiscal responsibility intersects with social justice.
"Governor Oborevwori is a leader who walks the talk—turning pledges into reality," Aniagwu emphasized. His disciplined management of finances and unwavering commitment to fairness have not only stabilized the state's economy but also solidified public confidence, creating an environment where peace flourishes organically.
Wrapping up his interview, Aniagwu extended an open invitation to skeptics, independent monitors, and members of the media to tour Delta State firsthand. "We don't merely boast about our accomplishments; we urge everyone to come and verify for themselves," he said. "This is precisely why peace persists and deepens—because Deltans can now palpably feel that their government is truly serving them."
The commissioner's statements paint a picture of a transformative leadership style that prioritizes equity, transparency, and results. In a region with diverse ethnic groups, geographical challenges, and historical tensions, Oborevwori's strategy of spreading development evenly appears to be a masterstroke in conflict prevention and nation-building. By investing in people and infrastructure without bias, the administration is not just building roads and bridges but also bridging divides and securing a prosperous future for all Deltans.
As Delta State continues on this trajectory, the model of governance exemplified here could serve as a blueprint for other Nigerian states grappling with similar issues of inequality and instability. The emphasis on measurable pillars, citizen engagement through whistleblowing, and debt management without new borrowing highlights a sustainable path forward. With projects dotting the landscape from urban centers to remote hamlets, the Oborevwori era is proving that inclusive development is the most potent tool for enduring peace.
