🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Delta State spent N664.5 billion on 362 contracts in 2025 without borrowing
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori announced that the state government spent over N664.5 billion on 362 contracts in 2025. These contracts, each valued at N25 million and above, covered critical sectors such as road infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The governor made this disclosure in Asaba during the opening of a Public Procurement Enlightenment Workshop organized by the Delta State Public Procurement Commission. Represented by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori stated that the workshop aims to strengthen compliance with the Delta State Public Procurement Law, 2020, and promote transparency, accountability, and due process in government spending. He emphasized that these achievements were recorded without borrowing, attributing it to prudent financial management and strict adherence to due process. The administration plans to continue supporting reforms to strengthen the procurement system and enhance public confidence. David Igbodo, Chairman of the Delta State Public Procurement Council, noted that the administration's commitment to fairness and compliance has ensured that only qualified contractors execute public projects, leading to quality infrastructure and prudent resource management. The workshop included lectures on achieving professionalism in public procurement and preventing fraud.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
AC Milan and Real Betis are reportedly monitoring Nigerian forward Christantus Uche, who is set to return to Getafe after a loan spell at Crystal Palace. Uche's time at Crystal Palace concluded without a permanent deal, as he made 14 appearances across all competitions with one assist. His loan agreement stipulated that Crystal Palace would pay €20m if he started 10 Premier League matches, a threshold that was not met. Getafe is open to selling Uche if a suitable offer is received. AC Milan had previously shown interest in Uche before his move to Crystal Palace. Real Betis is also reportedly monitoring the situation, though Getafe may be reluctant to sell to a domestic rival. Uche is expected to be reintegrated into the Getafe squad while the club remains open to offers.
Must ReadProfessor Emmanuel Ojo of the University of Ilorin has warned that West Africa risks a cycle of military takeovers if governments do not address governance challenges and declining public confidence in democratic institutions. Speaking at Koladaisi University, Professor Ojo stated that the rise in military interventions, particularly in the Sahel, is linked to public dissatisfaction with civilian governments over insecurity, economic difficulties, unemployment, and perceived leadership failures. He noted that weak governance and declining trust in democratic institutions create conditions where military rule is seen by some as an alternative. Professor Ojo identified weak democratic consolidation, legitimacy crises, poor institutional capacity, economic challenges, fragile national identity, and external interference as contributing factors to the return of military interventions. He argued that political leaders' failure to deliver inclusive development and accountable governance could continue to weaken civilian administrations. Professor Ojo also linked support for some military governments to resentment among young Africans over perceived foreign domination. He urged African governments to prioritize transparency, accountability, and people-centered policies, emphasizing that stronger democratic institutions, improved civil-military relations, and economic development are crucial to preventing further military takeovers. Temitope Bello, Acting Director of Research and Dev
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Joanah Gigi, has cautioned orphanage operators in the state to adhere strictly to child adoption laws and regulations or face sanctions, including facility closure. During a meeting with private orphanage operators in Yenagoa, Commissioner Gigi emphasized that all adoption matters must be handled in collaboration with the ministry. She urged operators to ensure all dealings with prospective adoptive parents comply with legal frameworks and established procedures. Gigi stated that the meeting was held to brief stakeholders on new national policies and strategies on child adoption and welfare, designed to address previous loopholes and strengthen the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women, children, and families in the adoption process. She stressed that any adoption without approved procedures, proper documentation, and ministry certification is illegal, and violating orphanages will be sanctioned. The Commissioner announced that unscheduled monitoring visits to orphanages would soon commence to assess compliance. Mrs. Agnes Oloye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, noted that the Bayelsa State Government supports children in its orphanages until age 18. Mr. Olufemi Koleola, CEO of Blossom Orphanage, welcomed the new policies but suggested they should also address pressure from prospective parents seeking quick adoption processes.