Governor’s Aide Expounds on Benefits of Engaging Foreign Contractors in Delta State’s Flag-off Construction Project Worth 78 Billion Naira
By Omonigho Okotie
ASABA/Nigeria: Dr. Wilfred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Orientation and Communications, has provided insights into the rationale behind favouring foreign contractors over indigenous counterparts in the groundbreaking ceremony for a 78 billion naira construction project.
The Governor’s Aide provided insight in a radio interview aired on Crown 94.7 FM, Asaba, where he delivered a comprehensive understanding and highlighted the manifold advantages of partnering with foreign contractors. He sought to dispel misconceptions surrounding the hefty 78 billion naira allocation, clarifying that only 25% of the contract sum had been disbursed. This clarification aimed to quell circulating rumors of a lump sum payment across Delta State.
While acknowledging the invaluable role of indigenous contractors, Dr. Oghenesivbe reiterated the government’s commitment to engaging them in projects aligned with their specialized expertise and capabilities. He emphasized the necessity of leveraging specialized skills and advanced machinery for specific projects, reiterating the government’s dedication to optimal project management, fiscal prudence, and top-tier delivery—qualities exemplified by foreign contractors.
In a firm rebuttal, Dr. Latimore debunked the notion that indigenous contractors are expected to remit a percentage of the contract sum to government agencies, emphasizing the government’s staunch stance against such practices. He underscored the administration’s unwavering stand against corruption, emphasizing a pursuit for enduring, high-quality projects that transcend the current regime.
The government’s commitment to enduring infrastructure projects funded by taxpayers’ money was further emphasized by Dr. Oghenesivbe. He reiterated the administration’s resolve to ensure the delivery of exceptional and long-lasting infrastructure while expressing confidence in the competence of foreign contractors, singling out Julius Berger as an exemplar of superior work delivery.
