The Delta State Government has announced plans to set up a fully functional, commercially viable printing press to meet the printing needs of government agencies and the general public.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, on Tuesday during the inter-ministerial budget defence session at the Ministry of Economic Planning in Asaba.

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Boosting Efficiency and Revenue

Aniagwu explained that the initiative, championed by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is aimed at enhancing government printing efficiency while generating sustainable revenue for the state.

He noted that the project has experienced delays due to the limited number of qualified proposals received, but the government remains committed to transparency and healthy competition in the procurement process.

“We want multiple submissions from professionals so we can make a proper comparative assessment — not only in terms of cost but also in the brands and quality of machines to be acquired,” Aniagwu said.

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Serving Broad Government and Public Needs

The proposed printing press is designed to serve as a central facility for all state printing requirements, not just for The Pointer Newspapers.

“The state government has substantial printing needs — from files and calendars to diaries and other materials currently handled by private contractors,” Aniagwu explained.

“For instance, the Ministry of Education’s annual printing budget alone is significant enough to sustain a functional and profitable printing press.”

He added that under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement, the press will handle both government and commercial printing services for the general public.

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Sustainability and Reduced Dependence on Subventions

Aniagwu expressed optimism that the press, once operational, will address operational challenges, improve revenue generation, and reduce dependence on government subventions.

“A self-sustaining printing operation will reduce the agency’s reliance on government support for essentials like vehicles or fuel,” he said.

He also commended Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, for his support and stressed that with the political will of Governor Oborevwori, the project will soon become a reality.

“With the commitment and focus of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, we are confident that the light at the end of the tunnel is much closer than where we are coming from,” Aniagwu added.