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From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Governor Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quality, speed, and accountability in the execution of infrastructure projects across the state, declaring that government does not owe allegiance to any contractor but to the people of Edo State.
The governor made this clarification during a stakeholders’ meeting with major contractors handling key projects in the state, held at the government house in Benin City yesterday.
The meeting focused on a comprehensive review of project status, progress timelines, quality standards, causes of delays, and contractor accountability. Governor Okpebholo stressed that awarding contracts is only the first step, noting that effective follow-up and proper execution are critical to achieving value-driven and durable infrastructure.
“I’m happy you are here for this brief meeting. One thing is to give a contract, another thing is to follow up, and the third is execution.
“I have been visiting project sites and I can see work in progress, but I am not too happy with the pace of some of the projects. Projects that are seven to nine months old should have made more visible progress by now,” he said.
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Commending some contractors for improved performance, Governor Okpebholo made it clear that funding has never been an issue, as his administration has ensured prompt payment of contractors’ certificates.
“I can say it authoritatively that no contractor’s payment has been delayed. Nobody lobbied us to get paid. So, if we are paying you quickly, you must also work fast and complete projects within the agreed time”, the governor said and warned against any attempt to cut corners, emphasizing that his administration would not tolerate substandard work or unnecessary project revaluation.
“I don’t delay payments because I don’t want any form of revaluation. If you come tomorrow to say I should revalue your contract, I will never do it. Since payment is not delayed, you must deliver as agreed”, he stressed, pointing out that future contracts will be strictly performance-based.
“The faster and better you perform, the faster we give you new projects. If you are not doing well, you will not get another job. We want projects that will last for Edo people, so that the next governor in 10 or 20 years will focus on other priorities.”
The governor cited recent site visits, including Church Road and Ekehuan Road in Benin City, where he expressed concern over quality and drainage provisions, insisting that proper drainage systems must be included on both sides of Ekenhuan roads to ensure longevity.
Special Adviser on Projects, Phoebe-William Bello and the Commissioner for Works, Dr. Felix Akhabue, commended the governor for convening the meeting, describing it as a proactive step to directly engage contractors and fast-track project delivery, especially during the dry season.
