Delta Govt Approves ₦42bn Infrastructure Projects Covering Roads, Flood Control, Power

By Omajemite Don On Dec 17, 2025

The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved capital projects valued at more than ₦42 billion, covering road construction and rehabilitation, erosion and flood control, and the expansion of electricity infrastructure across multiple parts of the state. The approvals reflect a continued focus on infrastructure-led development and service delivery.

Briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the decisions aligned with the administration’s development agenda and its commitment to improving living standards statewide.

Ejes Gist News reports that the approvals cut across critical transport corridors, flood-prone zones, and power infrastructure needed to support residential and industrial activities.

Aniagwu was joined at the briefing by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen; the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Projects and Policies, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika; and the Executive Assistant on New Media, Mr. Felix Ofou. The officials provided a detailed breakdown of the projects, their scope, and the rationale behind the approvals.

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Scope of the ₦42 Billion Project Approvals

According to the Works Commissioner, the projects approved by EXCO span three major sectors:

Road infrastructure, including reconstruction, new road construction, and completion of stalled internal roads.
Erosion and flood control, targeting areas vulnerable to seasonal flooding and environmental degradation.
Energy and electricity infrastructure, focusing on transformer replacement, substation rehabilitation, and network expansion.

The projects are distributed across several local government areas to ensure balanced development and address long-standing infrastructure deficits.

Major Road Projects Across Delta State

Old Lagos–Asaba Road Reconstruction

One of the flagship approvals involves major works on the Old Lagos–Asaba Road, a strategic arterial route linking several communities and supporting commercial movement within Delta State.

Aniagwu disclosed that EXCO approved the reconstruction of Phase Two of the Old Lagos–Asaba Road, covering:

The Obior to Ubulu-Uku axis, serving Aniocha North and Aniocha South Local Government Areas.
Connecting routes that enhance intra-community access and reduce travel time.

The commissioner explained that the road plays a critical role in agricultural produce evacuation, trade, and commuter mobility, making its rehabilitation a priority.

Ika North East Road Connections

In Ika North East Local Government Area, EXCO approved works on key connector roads, including:

Ute-Ogbeje to Ebuenor Road
Ani-Nwachokor Road

These routes link rural communities to larger commercial centres and social infrastructure, such as schools and healthcare facilities.

Cost Reviews and Adjustments for Ongoing Projects

Aniagwu confirmed that some previously approved projects had their contract sums reviewed upward. He attributed the adjustments to:

Changes in market prices of construction materials.
Delays caused by weather conditions.
Funding constraints that affected contractors’ mobilisation.

Among the projects with revised costs is the Ute-Ogbeje to Otolokpo Road, which EXCO approved for upward review to enable contractors to complete the work without compromising quality or timelines.

Ndokwa West Internal Road Construction

To improve internal connectivity in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, the council approved:

Construction of Etua-Etiti Internal Roads
Construction of Etua-Oliogo Internal Roads

Aniagwu noted that these roads are essential for easing movement within the communities, improving access to markets, and reducing transportation costs for residents.

He said the approvals would allow contractors to mobilise fully and complete the projects in line with engineering standards.

Flood and Erosion Control Interventions

Asaba International Airport Erosion Control

EXCO approved the construction of erosion control measures around the Asaba International Airport, a critical aviation facility serving Delta State and neighbouring regions.

According to Aniagwu, the intervention aims to:

Protect airport infrastructure from flood-related damage.
Prevent soil erosion that could undermine runways, access roads, and adjoining facilities.
Enhance the long-term safety and functionality of the airport environment.

Dennis Osadebay Way Flood Control Works

Flood control works were also approved for Dennis Osadebay Way, specifically from the traffic light junction to Abraka Road.

The commissioner described the corridor as one of the areas most affected by erosion and floodwaters during heavy rainfall, leading to:

Road deterioration.
Traffic disruption.
Property damage for nearby residents and businesses.

The approved works are expected to improve drainage, stabilise the road structure, and reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.

Additional Road Projects in Ethiope East and Ughelli

EXCO further approved:

Completion of internal roads in Otorho-Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
Construction of Imohwe Street in Ughelli, a project aimed at improving access and urban mobility.

Aniagwu said these projects respond to persistent demands from residents and align with the administration’s commitment to grassroots development.

Energy and Electricity Infrastructure Expansion

Transformer Replacement and Installation in Udu

On the energy front, the commissioner disclosed that EXCO approved the replacement of a broken-down 15MVA power transformer serving parts of Udu and neighbouring communities.

In addition, the council approved:

Installation of new 300KVA distribution transformers.
Rehabilitation of existing substations.
Replacement of ancillary electrical equipment.

Aniagwu explained that the interventions are designed to stabilise power supply, reduce outages, and support both domestic consumption and industrial operations in the area.

Impact on Economic and Industrial Activities

According to the commissioner, improved electricity supply in Udu is expected to:

Support manufacturing and small-scale industries.
Reduce reliance on diesel-powered generators.
Lower operating costs for businesses.
Improve quality of life for residents.

He described the energy projects as deliberate investments to strengthen Delta State’s economic base.

Link Between Infrastructure and Economic Planning

Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, emphasised that the approved projects align with the state’s medium- and long-term development plans.

He said infrastructure investment remains central to:

Job creation.
Poverty reduction.
Improved access to social services.
Sustainable urban and rural development.

Ekedayen noted that the distribution of projects reflects data-driven planning and identified needs across different zones of the state.

2026 Appropriation Bill Signed Into Law

Aniagwu also informed journalists that Governor Oborevwori had signed the ₦1.7 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law.

Key highlights of the budget include:

Over 70 percent allocation to capital expenditure.
Strong emphasis on infrastructure development.
Continued funding for roads, energy, education, healthcare, and environmental protection.

The commissioner said the budget structure underscores the administration’s preference for long-term assets over recurrent spending.

Procurement Process and Governance Assurance

Addressing concerns about project execution timelines and transparency, Aniagwu assured that:

All projects would follow due procurement processes.
Contract awards would comply with existing laws and regulations.
Monitoring mechanisms would be strengthened to ensure value for money.

He added that the administration would continue to focus on development delivery regardless of political activities or the approaching election season.

Expected Impact on Delta State Development

According to government officials, the combined effect of the approved projects is expected to:

Improve road safety and reduce travel time.
Minimise flood-related damage and environmental degradation.
Enhance electricity reliability in strategic economic zones.
Stimulate local economies and attract private investment.

Aniagwu expressed confidence that the projects would significantly advance Delta State’s development trajectory and reinforce public trust in government programmes.

He also acknowledged the support of residents and stakeholders across the state, noting that community cooperation remains essential for successful project implementation.