Awka — GOVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State said weekend that stoppage of work at various project sites in the state was due to Christmas holidays, assuring that project execution would begin in earnest as soon as the festive period was over.

Obi, who spoke while inspecting the on-going palliative work on Onitsha-Enugu dual carriageway, noted that it was customary for construction companies to vacate sites during the Christmas period.

Insisting that his administration had funds to pay for projects being executed in the state, Obi said: "Anambra State government under my watch is financially liquid to go on with her various projects.

"If you have been following development in the state, you would notice that we have also continued with the money we give to missionaries.

"Rather than the three-week holidays contractors usually take during Christmas period, we have talked to them not to stay more than two weeks before resuming work on the many jobs that we are presently executing and the need for them to make maximum use of the dry season.

"I am happy to note that all of them agreed and, in fact, told us that they will grant whatever request we make because we do not owe them.

"We have enough resources, saved through prudence management, for project execution for the benefit of the state."

Obi also spoke on his continued flagging off of projects even as his tenure would soon end, adding that he was satisfied that the state had the financial muscle to carry out the projects.

He commended the people of the state for their faith in his government and assured that 2013 would witness renewed commitment on his part to even achieve greater things for the progress and development of the state.

The governor appealed to the people to shun various vices during the festive period and to strive to leave within their means.