Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has come down hard on contractors handling the reconstruction of Warri Stadium, expressing anger over delays and warning that poor-quality work will not be tolerated.

 

During an inspection visit to the project site in Warri, the governor made it clear that deadline must be respected and quality must not be compromised.

 

Visibly displeased, Oborevwori reminded the contractor that the project was supposed to be completed by December, but remains unfinished months later. “I wasn’t smiling because we have an agreement. The contractor was to finish in December, and now we are in April,” he said

While acknowledging that the football pitch meets expectations, the governor rejected parts of the construction—especially the stadium cladding, which he described as substandard.

"We paid for quality, not something that will fade in a few years. This cladding is temporary—it will be removed,” Oborevwori declared.

He insisted that only durable, long-lasting materials will be accepted for the project.

 

The governor identified the contractor as Peculiar Consults and issued a strong warning, “If he fails us again, we will expose him.” He told journalists present.

He also called on the media and the public to hold the contractor accountable, signaling zero tolerance for substandard delivery.

Oborevwori explained that the decision to renovate the existing Warri Stadium—instead of building a new one—was due to: land constraints, the need to preserve the stadium’s legacy, and desire to avoid displacing surrounding residents.

 

He noted that plans to relocate nearby communities were deliberately rejected to protect livelihoods.

 

Despite the setbacks, the governor expressed optimism that the upgraded stadium will soon be ready to host major sporting events.

 

He also revealed plans to renovate the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba after completion and continue investing in sports infrastructure across the state.

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, commended the governor’s commitment.

 

He praised the quality of the pitch, noting it meets modern football standards, but hinted that the stadium may not be ready for matches until September.

 

Gusau added that the Super Eagles could play the first official match at the venue once completed.

Also speaking Director General of the National institute for Sports, Phillip Shaibu described the pitch as exceptional.

 

He said the project reflects a strong commitment to sports development in Delta State.