Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a firm message to contractors handling government projects across the state: performance, quality, and speed will determine who gets future jobs.
The governor made this clear during a stakeholders’ meeting with major contractors at the Government House in Benin City, where ongoing infrastructure projects were reviewed. Discussions centered on work progress, timelines, quality standards, reasons for delays, and the need for stronger accountability.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration’s loyalty is to the people of Edo State, not to contractors. According to him, awarding a contract is only the beginning, while consistent supervision and proper execution are what ultimately deliver value to citizens.
He explained that while several project sites show signs of activity, the pace of work on some projects remains unsatisfactory. Projects that have been ongoing for seven to nine months, he noted, should show clearer and more substantial progress.
The governor acknowledged improved performance by some firms, including CCECC and Setraco, but stressed that lack of funding is not an excuse for slow delivery. He stated that his administration has maintained prompt payment of contractors’ certificates, adding that no contractor has had to lobby for payment.
With payments made on time, Governor Okpebholo warned that excuses for delays or demands for contract revaluation would not be entertained. He said the government would not tolerate substandard work or shortcuts and insisted that contractors must deliver exactly what was agreed.
Looking ahead, the governor declared that future contracts will be strictly performance-based. Contractors who deliver quality projects quickly will be considered for more jobs, while those who fail to meet standards will be excluded. His goal, he said, is to build durable infrastructure that will serve Edo people for decades.
Citing recent inspections of Church Road and Ekenhuan Road in Benin City, the governor expressed concern about construction quality and drainage design, insisting that proper drainage systems must be provided to protect the roads and extend their lifespan.
Earlier, the Special Adviser on Projects, Phoebe-William Bello, and the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Dr. Felix Akhabue, praised the governor for convening the meeting, describing it as a timely and practical step toward accelerating project delivery, especially during the dry season.
Speaking on behalf of the contractors, Mr. Nazilh Nasr of NAFRO Nigeria Limited commended the governor for maintaining prompt payments. He noted that although the Benin Technical Road project began under the previous administration, Governor Okpebholo ensured its continuation and has consistently honored payment obligations.
The meeting concluded with contractors pledging to speed up work, adhere strictly to approved designs and quality standards, and maintain close communication with the Ministry of Works to resolve challenges promptly.
