Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed dissatisfaction with the contractor handling the reconstruction of Warri City Stadium, citing delays beyond the agreed delivery timeline.
During an inspection visit on Tuesday, the governor recalled that the project was scheduled for completion in December, but work was still ongoing in April.
“I wasn’t smiling because we have an agreement with the contractor. The agreement is for the contractor to finish in December, and now we are in April,” he said.
He stressed that contractual timelines must be respected, adding that the state government would not accept substandard delivery.
While commending the quality of the playing pitch, Oborevwori criticised aspects of the ongoing work, particularly the cladding, which he described as temporary and unacceptable.
“We have paid for quality, not something that will fade in a few years. This cladding you are seeing is temporary; it will be removed,” he said.
The governor warned that only durable materials would be accepted and urged the contractor to adhere strictly to specifications. He also said the state would hold the contractor accountable if expectations were not met.
“If he fails us again, we will expose him,” he said.
Oborevwori explained that the decision to renovate rather than build a new stadium was influenced by land constraints and the need to preserve the identity of Warri Stadium. He also noted that relocation of residents around the facility was rejected to avoid disrupting livelihoods.
He expressed optimism that the upgraded stadium would meet international standards and host major sporting events. He also revealed plans to renovate the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba after the Warri project is completed.
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, who accompanied the governor, praised the project and described it as a major step in reviving football in Warri. He noted that the pitch meets modern standards but suggested the stadium may not be ready for matches until September.
The Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, also commended the quality of work, describing the turf as exceptional and a strong commitment to sports infrastructure in the state.
