Oborevwori Calls for Stricter Oversight, Quality Control In NDDC Projects
Push for Better Project Standards in the Niger Delta
DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called for stronger oversight and improved quality control in the execution of development projects across the Niger Delta region, stressing that interventionist agencies must deliver lasting value to host communities.
The governor made the remarks on Monday in Asaba while receiving members of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who are on oversight duties in the state.
Led by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Government House as part of efforts to assess ongoing projects funded by the commission.
Governor Warns Against Substandard Projects
Governor Oborevwori expressed concern over the quality of some completed and ongoing projects in the region, warning against the recurring issue of substandard delivery that fails within a short period after completion.
He emphasized that development interventions must be guided by proper needs assessment and not assumptions, insisting that projects should reflect the real priorities of local communities.
According to him, accountability and transparency must be strengthened within agencies like the NDDC to ensure that public funds translate into meaningful development outcomes.
Call for Community Feedback and Local Participation
The governor further advocated the introduction of structured feedback mechanisms that would allow communities to report poorly executed projects.
He cited instances where contractors delivered inferior work, including a school roofing project that had to be corrected by the state government.
Oborevwori also recommended greater involvement of local contractors in smaller-scale projects, noting that while complex infrastructure may require international expertise, indigenous firms should be empowered to handle community-level development.
Security and Development Progress
He also acknowledged improvements in security across the Niger Delta, attributing the progress to collaboration among federal, state, and regional stakeholders.
Oborevwori stressed that sustained peace remains critical for effective implementation of development projects across the region.
Commitment from National Assembly Committees
Speaking earlier, Senator Ekpenyong said the joint committee was in Delta State as part of its oversight responsibilities on NDDC projects.
He commended the Oborevwori administration for achievements in infrastructure, urban renewal, and human capital development, noting its positive impact on residents.
He assured that the committee would work closely with state authorities to ensure that NDDC interventions deliver tangible benefits.
Conclusion: Shared Commitment to Accountability
The visit underscored a shared commitment between the Delta State Government and the National Assembly committees to improve oversight, strengthen accountability, and ensure that development projects in the Niger Delta achieve lasting impact.
