Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has reaffirmed his commitment to quality, speed and accountability in infrastructure delivery, stressing that Edo people, not contractors, remain his priority.
Okpebholo spoke on Tuesday in Benin during a stakeholders’ meeting with major contractors handling key projects across the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting reviewed project status, timelines, quality benchmarks, causes of delays and contractor accountability.
The governor said awarding contracts was only the beginning, emphasising that follow-up and proper execution were essential for durable, value-driven infrastructure.
“One thing is to give a contract, another is to follow up, and the third is execution.
“I have visited project sites and seen work ongoing, but I am not happy with the pace of some projects.
“Projects that are seven to nine months old should have shown more visible progress by now,” the governor said.
He, however, commended contractors such as CCECC and Setraco for improved performance on assigned projects.
Okpebholo said funding had never been an issue, noting that his administration promptly pays contractors’ certificates.
“I don’t delay payments because I won’t allow revaluation. Since payment isn’t delayed, you must deliver as agreed,” he said.
He warned against cutting corners, insisting that substandard work and unnecessary revaluation would not be tolerated.
“The faster and better you perform, the faster you get new projects. Poor performance means no further jobs,” Okpebholo said.
The Governor stressed the need for durable projects, adding, “We want infrastructure that will last for Edo people.”
He cited visits to Church Road and Ekenhuan Road, expressing concern over quality and insisting on proper drainage on both sides of Ekenhuan Road.
Earlier, the Special Adviser on Projects, Bello Phoebe-William, and Works Commissioner, Dr Felix Akhabue, praised the meeting as proactive and timely.
Speaking for contractors, Mr Nazilh Nasr of NAFRO Nigeria Ltd. commended the governor for prompt payments and continuity on the Benin Technical Road project.
Other dignitaries included Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), APC leaders in Esan Central Senatorial District, and APC State Deputy Chairman, Mr Sylvester Aigbobo.
On their part, the contractors pledging faster delivery, strict adherence to designs and quality standards, and closer coordination with the Ministry of Works.
