Delta State Approves ₦10bn for School Renovation

The Delta State government has approved ₦10 billion to renovate 92 public primary and secondary schools across the state's 25 local government areas. The project includes furniture and information and communication technology facilities. Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, announced the approval after a State Executive Council meeting. He described the project as the first phase of an emergency intervention to improve school facilities.

The renovation project aims to address the poor state of schools in the state, ensuring that none of the schools is in a condition that is not conducive for learning and teaching. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had directed the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education to identify schools needing urgent repairs or reconstruction. The project will supplement existing initiatives by the State Universal Basic Education Board.

According to Aniagwu, the government intends to produce lasting improvements in school facilities. The project will cover both buildings and essential facilities for pupils, students, and teachers. The government has continued to meet its counterpart funding obligations to the Universal Basic Education Commission, enabling it to access federal support for basic education.

The State Executive Council also approved a proposed 2027 budget of ₦1.2 trillion, which will fund infrastructure projects, including road construction, rehabilitation, and urban renewal works. The council identified roads requiring attention, including sections along federal routes, such as the Asaba–Benin expressway corridor.

In addition to the school renovation project, the government has entered into a partnership with Sapele Power to utilize previously underused turbines. The commissioner commended President Bola Tinubu's federal electricity reforms, which have expanded opportunities for states to work with private investors on power projects.

Aniagwu emphasized that generating electricity is not enough; transmission and distribution infrastructure must also function effectively to ensure dependable supply. The government also approved five additional homes for judges through the Ministry of Housing, providing accommodation needed to support further judicial appointments.

The approval for additional judges' homes will enable the ministry to begin providing residences ahead of appointments. Aniagwu stressed that accommodation, courtrooms, and official vehicles are necessary for incoming judicial officers. The government aims to provide the necessary facilities to support the appointment of new judges.

Key points

• The Delta State government has approved ₦10 billion to renovate 92 public schools across the state.
• The project aims to improve school facilities, ensuring that none of the schools is in a condition that is not conducive for learning and teaching.
• The government has also approved a proposed 2027 budget of ₦1.2 trillion to fund infrastructure projects.