Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has stressed the need for continuous training and professional development as a critical tool for delivering durable, high-quality and sustainable infrastructure projects across the state.
The commissioner stated this on Tuesday during an interactive session with zonal and superintendent engineers of the ministry in Asaba, noting that the ever-evolving nature of engineering practice makes constant learning inevitable.
Izeze said regular training exposes engineers to emerging technologies, global best practices and innovative construction methods required to meet modern standards in road construction and urban infrastructure development.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration to professionalism, efficiency and value for money in public projects, stressing that these goals can only be achieved through a skilled, motivated and competent workforce.
According to him, deliberate investment in human capacity will guarantee timely project delivery, improved durability, enhanced safety and cost-effectiveness, in line with the governor’s MORE Agenda.
The commissioner urged engineers and other stakeholders in the construction sector to embrace continuous retraining and strict adherence to project specifications, assuring that the ministry would sustain programmes aimed at strengthening technical competence and improving service delivery.
He also charged engineers to prioritise physical, on-site inspections of project locations rather than relying solely on GPS data, while emphasising the need for the timely completion of all ongoing projects, especially as the election year approaches.
Addressing staff welfare, Izeze said improved working conditions would boost productivity and overall performance.
“If you are excellent at what you do and remain on top of your game, I know how best to showcase and support my people,” he said.
He further noted that training is as important as the job itself, given the constant emergence of new techniques and innovations in the sector, adding that consistent training and retraining are essential for staff relevance and effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Engr. Mrs Juliet Aboloje; Special Assistant (Technical) to the Commissioner, Engr. Ejovi Adasen; Director of Highways, Engr. Solomon Aghagba; and Director of Urban Roads, Engr. Victor Oputa, among other senior officials.
