Why Delta Pays 40% Mobilization to Contractors — Aniagwu

Delta State Government has said the payment of 40% mobilization fees to contractors after contract approval is pursuant to its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability in project execution.

The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the upfront payment was to enable contractors to commence work without delay, while also empowering the government to enforce compliance with project terms.

“Once a contract is approved, we release 40% mobilization, regardless of the total amount. This eliminates excuses and strengthens our ability to demand quality and progress”, Aniagwu said.

He added that contractors were expected to strictly follow the Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME), noting that the government paid 100% of any certified project milestone, a shift from previous practices.

“Under Governor Oborevwori, contractors are paid in full upon certification of work. This is part of the Governor’s commitment to financial discipline”, he said, adding that Delta is currently the only state offering such robust payment terms, which has significantly improved project timelines.

Aniagwu clarified that projects were awarded strictly based on available resources, not political considerations or populism. “We don’t play to the gallery. We work with what we have, and the Governor is disciplined about it”, he said.

The Commissioner  praised Governor Oborevwori’s financial prudence, stating: “Our money is working for us, and for that, we give God the glory”.

Speaking on the impact of global partnerships, Aniagwu noted that engagements with international stakeholders validated the state’s infrastructure policies and introduced global best practices.

“Our visit to China was a major eye-opener. It exposed us to new technologies and the imperatives of measurable project timelines even as our interactions with global players in infrastructure development reaffirmed our approach to development”, he said.

Aniagwu explained that such interactions enhanced knowledge, reveal untapped capacities, and encouraged continuous improvement, emphasizing that the Oborevwori administration prioritized quality over sentiment. “Deltans deserve value for money. Our infrastructure drive is visible and impactful”, he noted.

The Commissioner concluded that Delta’s financial stability, achieved without resorting to loans, was a testament to Governor Oborevwori’s responsible and prudent approach to governance.

“We are not chasing credit lines. We seek knowledge and meaningful partnerships. The results speak for themselves”, Aniagwu said.