UBEC, Delta SUBEB Reaffirm Commitment to Accountability in Public Procurement

 

By Admin 

The Delta State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, conducted the official bid opening for the 2025 Universal Basic Education intervention projects in strict compliance with the Public Procurement Act and other established procurement procedures both at national and state levels.

The projects mainly focused on the construction and renovation of primary schools across Delta State, where stakeholders reaffirmed Subeb/ UBEC commitment to transparency, accountability, and due process in public procurement.

The Commissioner for Primary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, in her message to the ceremony, emphasized the Delta state government’s dedication to professionalism, integrity, and strict adherence to procurement guidelines. 

Represented by Mr. Akpojaro Lawson, the Commissioner urged bidders to maintain high standards, comply fully with project specifications, and ensure timely delivery of contracts. 

Mrs Ezewu further reaffirmed the Ministry's partnership with Delta SUBEB and stakeholders to guarantee that the intervention projects positively impact communities and improve learning environments for pupils across the state. 

She also appreciated the State Government for the release of necessary funds to support the projects.

In a thought provoking speech, the Executive Chairman of Delta SUBEB, Hon. Samuel Mariere, highlighted the Board's impressive performance record, noting that 99 percent of previously awarded projects were completed to specification. 

He commended the Department of Physical Planning and the Procurement Team for their diligence and professionalism. 

Hon. Mariere acknowledged the challenges posed by rising market prices but assured contractors that prevailing economic realities had been carefully factored into the 2025 procurement planning process. 

He stressed that transparency, fairness, and strict compliance with procurement laws remain the guiding principles of the Board.

The Chairman further disclosed that the Board collaborates with regulatory and monitoring agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to strengthen accountability and eliminate sharp practices in public procurement. 

He reassured stakeholders that the 2025 intervention projects would be executed in line with global best practices.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Adira Akison, representative of ICPC, Delta State, emphasized the Commission's role in ensuring transparency and accountability in project execution. 

He commended the Chairman of Delta Subeb for overseeing the completion of over 90 percent of last year's projects according to specification. 

Akison clarified that the ICPC is not established to persecute contractors but to monitor implementation and address grievances where necessary, advising contractors to first engage the Board before escalating concerns to the Commission.

Also in attendance was the State Coordinator of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mrs. Sharon Dafiluelo, who commended Delta State for its consistent record of effective project delivery. 

She noted that the state has demonstrated strong capacity in executing intervention projects in accordance with approved standards and timelines. 

Mrs. Dafiluelo stated that Delta State's proven performance and accountability are key reasons the Commission confidently releases intervention funds to the state, even as she encouraged the Board and contractors to sustain the high standards that have earned the state its reputation for excellence.

Others who spoke reiterated the board’s strong alignment with the development vision of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whose administration has continued to prioritize quality infrastructure and improved learning outcomes across Delta State.

They renewed call on contractors to uphold professionalism, deliver value for money, and contribute meaningfully to strengthening basic education infrastructure throughout the state.

Other notable stakeholders present at the ceremony included Mrs. Kenebo Augusta, Executive Director of the Afro Center of Development Peace and Justice; Mr Osakwe Adolphus, representing the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS); Arc. Pius Amromanoh, representing the Nigerian Institute of Architects; members of the Board; Directors of Delta SUBEB; and other key stakeholders.