Okpebholo to Contractors: Deliver on Time or Lose Future Jobs

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to contractors handling government projects, declaring that future contracts will be awarded strictly on the basis of performance, speed, and quality of execution.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with major contractors at the Government House in Benin City, the governor said his administration owes loyalty only to the people of Edo State, not to contractors, and will not tolerate delays, substandard work, or attempts to cut corners.

The meeting, which brought together key stakeholders in the construction sector, focused on reviewing the status of ongoing projects, timelines, quality benchmarks, causes of delays, and contractor accountability.

Governor Okpebholo stressed that contract award is only the beginning of government engagement, noting that diligent follow-up and proper execution are essential to delivering durable infrastructure.

“One thing is to give a contract, another thing is to follow up, and the third is execution,” the governor said. “I have been visiting project sites and while I see work in progress, I am not satisfied with the pace of some projects. Projects that are seven to nine months old should show more visible progress.”

While commending firms such as CCECC and Setraco for improved performance, the governor dismissed claims that delays were caused by funding constraints, insisting that his administration has ensured prompt payment of contractors’ certificates.

“I can say authoritatively that no contractor’s payment has been delayed. Nobody lobbied us to get paid,” he said. “If we are paying you quickly, you must also work fast and complete projects within the agreed time.”

Governor Okpebholo warned that his government would not entertain project revaluation or tolerate poor workmanship.

“I don’t delay payments because I don’t want any form of revaluation. If you come tomorrow asking for revaluation, I will never do it,” he said. “Since payment is not delayed, you must deliver exactly as agreed.”

He further announced that future contracts would be strictly performance-based, making it clear that underperforming contractors would be sidelined.

“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,” the governor stated. “We want projects that will last for Edo people, so that the next governor in 10 or 20 years can focus on other priorities.”

The governor also cited recent inspections of Church Road and Ekenhuan Road in Benin City, where he raised concerns about construction quality and drainage. He insisted that proper drainage systems must be installed on both sides of Ekenhuan Road to ensure the durability of the project.

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 proactive engagement aimed at accelerating project delivery, particularly during the dry season.

Speaking on behalf of the contractors, Mr. Nazilh Nasr of NAFRO Nigeria Limited, which is handling the Benin Technical Road project, commended the governor for prompt payments. He noted that although the project began under the previous administration, Governor Okpebholo ordered its continuation and has consistently met payment obligations.

“I want to thank the governor for this opportunity,” Nasr said. “The previous government delayed our payments, but under this administration, payments have always been made promptly. The government does not owe us.”

Other dignitaries at the meeting included retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe, APC leader for Esan Central Senatorial District, and Mr. Sylvester Aigbobo, APC State Deputy Chairman.

The meeting ended 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 address challenges promptly.