Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has declared an end to the practice of arbitrary upward reviews of contract sums in the state, stating that the move is aimed at promoting transparency, safeguarding public resources, and ensuring value for money.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service to mark the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year at Emmanuel the Saviour Catholic Church, Asaba, the governor highlighted the reform as part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility.
“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″, he said.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State (right) with Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Tessy Diai (left), and other judges during the thanksgiving mass to mark the opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year at Emmanuel the Saviour Catholic Church, Asaba.
Governor Oborevwori tied the reform to the pillars of his MORE Agenda Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security aimed at deepening good governance across the state.
He further noted legislative collaborations that have produced landmark laws in critical sectors such as health and electricity, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
“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 added.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in a warm handshake with the Catholic Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese during the thanksgiving service to open the 2025/2026 Legal Year.
Taking the first Bible reading from Isaiah 32:15–18, Oborevwori reaffirmed his government’s dedication to judicial independence, improved court infrastructure, and a justice system that is both accessible and efficient.
Highlighting efforts to improve public service delivery, the governor recalled the October 2024 approval of a 158 percent increase in the state minimum wage, surpassing the Federal Government’s 133 percent raise.
He also disclosed that the state has released over ₦70 billion to clear pension arrears, including a recent ₦10 billion intervention and a sustained ₦2 billion monthly payment to support retirees.
In a push for social inclusion, Oborevwori announced the implementation of a Widows’ Welfare Scheme, which provides free healthcare and monthly stipends to 10,000 widows across Delta.
“This is a reflection of the human face of our MORE Agenda”, he noted.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (right) in discussion with Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai (left), at the 2025/2026 Legal Year thanksgiving mass in Asaba.
To support youth and small businesses, the governor listed various empowerment programmes such as MORE Grant Scheme, MORE WISE-Up, MORE ICT, and MORE Biz-Up, which are helping young people and artisans become economically self-reliant.
Looking ahead, he promised sustained investment in judicial technology and infrastructure, including automatic recording systems, e-filing, e-payment, and virtual hearing facilities in state courts.
“The executive, legislature, and judiciary are partners in service. Each arm depends on the other to function effectively.
“Together, we must continue to uphold the rule of law and ensure that every Deltan can live, work, and dream in a society governed by justice and fairness”, he said.
Earlier, in his homily, the Bishop of Issele-Uku Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, urged judicial officers to serve with “integrity, courage, and the fear of God,” describing judges as “partners with God in the administration of justice”.
The thanksgiving service was attended by key officials including the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, legal professionals, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
