Dr. Tonye Timi, Executive Director, Corporate Services, South/South Development Commission (SSDC), has commended Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for what he described as a focused and results-driven approach to governance anchored on effective project conceptualisation, construction, and delivery.
Timi, who spoke in an interview in Abuja, said the governor had demonstrated “laser focus and speed” in translating ideas into tangible projects, noting that this had begun to redefine development in the state.
He attributed part of the progress to Oborevwori’s decision to engage Julius Berger for major civil works, saying the move was already reflecting in visible infrastructural strides across Delta.
According to him, the governor’s leadership marks a departure from what he termed years of stalled and abandoned projects, citing examples such as the Oghareki power project, Warri Industrial Business Park, Asaba-Ughelli Road, Warri-Agbor Road, and the Kwale Power Project.
“These abandoned projects have wasted scarce developmental resources and dissipated energy and focus,” he said.
Timi expressed optimism that the governor’s performance would strengthen his chances ahead of the 2027 election cycle, describing him as a key figure in Delta’s evolving political landscape.
He noted that beyond infrastructure, Oborevwori had also exceeded expectations in managing the state’s finances, despite initial concerns over high debt levels inherited at the start of his administration in 2023.
“At the beginning of his tenure, there were fears of a possible debt overhang and economic instability. However, the governor has shown capacity in stabilising the economy and sustaining growth,” he said.
Timi added that infrastructural development under the administration had surprised critics, pointing to projects such as flyover bridges in Warri, Effurun, Ughelli, and Agbor, as well as ongoing investments in education and healthcare.
These include the development of a new campus for Southern Delta University at Orerokpe, construction of a College of Health Technology at Ovrode, and expansion of facilities at the university’s Faculty of Medical Sciences in Ozoro.
He also highlighted the completion of the trans-Warri road, which he said had improved connectivity between riverine and urban communities, boosting trade and economic activities.
Timi said the governor had demonstrated boldness and independence in governance, pursuing ambitious development goals without being constrained by initial doubts about his administration.
According to him, the current trajectory signals a renewed commitment to repositioning Delta State for sustained growth and restoring its standing among states in the country.