Delta Assembly Approves N13.6bn for Central Secretariat Complex Construction

By Patrick Ogbogu

The Delta State House of Assembly on Wednesday authorised the financing of a proposed N13.6 billion Central Secretariat Complex in Asaba as requested by the State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa even as the lawmakers equally approved a 15 day vacation request by the governor

Okowa, in a letter read on the floor of the House by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, said the state executive council has considered and approved the project to be handled by North China Construction Group Limited at an agreed amount of N13.645, 131, 243, 47 on a contractor-financed basis along with the attendant financing cost.

According to the letter, the governor sought the consideration and approval of the House on the decision by EXCO directing the project to be financed by borrowing the sum of N8 billion, equivalent to $18.5 million in line with the terms and conditions.

The terms of agreement further states that the Delta State government shall guarantee the loan of N18 billion to be obtained by North China Construction Group Limited [NCCG] from the United Bank of Africa [UBA] and to issue Irrevocable Standing Payment Orders [ISPOs].

The governor noted that since the creation of the state in 1991, most government ministries, departments and agencies [MDAs] have been operating from rented residential apartments, which are improper and not conducive for office use, adding that the situation had denied the state the advantage of proximity of government offices to one another.

The Majority Leader, Hon Tim Owhefere in moving for the approval of the governor’s request, argued that the move was apt as government was spending N7 billion yearly on rent. He was supported by Hon. Samuel Mariere; Emeka Elekeokwuri and Reuben Izeze.

The request was approved and adopted by the House when put to a voice vote by the Speaker.