Ifeadi tasks Delta contractors to align with Oborevwori’s quality delivery principles
The Leader of Delta State Special Project Inspection Team, Arc. Kester Ifeadi, has charged contractors executing various projects for the state government to align with the quality delivery principles of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
Arc. Ifeadi gave the charge when he led members of the team on inspection of ongoing road projects in Asaba and Okpanam which included Tony Ebenuwa Street, Biggle Okolo Crescent, lkukaiwe Street/Isibor Street/Tony Nzogwu Street/Mike Ogwah Street and Frank D’Don Street/Odiakpo Street.
The renowned Architect who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze; Special Adviser to the Governor (Project Monitoring and Audit), Dr. Goodnews Agbi and the Executive Assistant to the Governor (Public Enlightenment on Government Policies and Programmes), Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, said it would no longer be business as usual for contractors.
According to him, contractors must align with the quality delivery principles of the Oborevwori’s administration in the state which has zero tolerance for sub-standard work.
While saying that majority of the projects inspected were quite commendable, he disclosed that the team, also, identified certain challenges and lapses in few areas, stressing that it was for such reason that the technical team was embarking on project inspection with a view to providing advice on the way forward.
“Today, we have visited four projects sites, including the one we just concluded. We have observed the state of these projects, just as we did the previous day.
“While majority of the projects are quite commendable, we have also identified certain challenges and lapses in a few areas. That is precisely why we, as a technical team, are here to assess these projects and provide advice on the way forward.
“Let me make it clear that the issue of payment is out of the question. If you are part of the team, you would see clearly that we have asked that question repeatedly and the contractors keep saying that they are not being owed.
“So, it is not about payment now, it is about issues relating to skyrocketing prices of goods and services in the country. The concern we are addressing now, relate to the rising costs of materials, a challenge reflective of the current economic realities in Nigeria.
“The government operates with accountability at its core. Before approving any expenditure, it takes steps to verify and assess. That is why we are here today, to examine the challenges, address any lapses, and ensure that the quality of projects delivered meets the highest standards.
“Overall, the quality of work observed so far is satisfactory. However, we have noted a few areas that require improvement, and we are committed to addressing them,” Arc. Ifeadi said.
He disclosed that the special team assembled by the Governor was dedicated to ensuring that every project receives thorough oversight, pointing out that he (the Governor) has been actively leading the effort by personally inspecting projects to gain first hand information and guide decisions.
Ifeadi noted that the team was not new to the task before it, adding that it was a continuation of a process to maintain high standards across all projects in the state.