Oborevwori Provides ₦8.4 Billion to Clear DESOPADEC Contract Debts

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the release of ₦8.4 billion to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) to offset long-standing contract debts incurred between 2010 and 2023.

The gesture, aimed at restoring contractors’ confidence and revitalising grassroots projects, is also expected to stimulate economic activity in oil-producing communities across the state.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Communication, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Wednesday after a meeting between the governor and the DESOPADEC management at Government House, Asaba.

Aniagwu explained that the payment would cover verified projects that had been executed but remained unpaid for several years. Contractors owed ₦20 million and below would receive full payment, while those owed above ₦20 million would get 50 per cent of their outstanding balance in the first phase.

He said the intervention reflected Governor Oborevwori’s resolve to settle inherited financial obligations rather than abandon them, aligning with his administration’s MORE Agenda — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.

“You will recall that not long ago, His Excellency directed the release of ₦10 billion to the State Pension Bureau to clear a substantial portion of pension arrears. This follows his earlier directive to settle promotion arrears. Although many of these liabilities predate his administration, he has continued to confront them with courage and compassion,” Aniagwu said.

Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor, lauded the governor’s decision, describing it as a confidence-building move that would restore trust and sustain project delivery in oil-bearing communities.

Ochonogor said while DESOPADEC had consistently funded projects initiated under the current administration, the newly approved funds were specifically allocated to clear verified debts inherited from previous years.

He noted that the debts covered diverse community projects, including roads, schools, water supply schemes, and jetties, adding that an extensive audit preceded the payment approval to ensure accountability.

The development has been widely welcomed in oil-producing areas, where communities had long awaited the completion of stalled infrastructure projects.