Asaba, Delta State — November 11, 2026: The Delta State Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructural Development, Hon. Ebikeme Clark, has presented his ministry’s proposed 2026 budget before the State Ministry of Economic Planning, emphasising renewed commitment to improving infrastructure in riverine and coastal communities across the state.
Speaking with journalists after the budget defence session held at the State Secretariat, Asaba, Clark described the presentation exercise as successful. He noted that the increased budget allocation to the ministry reflects the state government’s resolve to deepen development in hard-to-reach coastal areas.
“Our ministry is relatively new, but we are grateful to His Excellency, the Governor, for creating this ministry to bring meaningful development to riverine communities,” Clark said.
He explained that within its first year of establishment, the ministry had completed several projects, while others were currently ongoing in different riverine locations.
“For the first year, we have completed some projects and we have others still ongoing in various riverine areas of the state. The increased budget for the coming year—more than double what we had—shows the governor’s determination to do more for the people,” he noted.
Clark added that the ministry’s development priorities for the 2026 fiscal year will focus on addressing key infrastructure deficits traditionally faced in the coastal belt, including transportation routes, schools, health facilities, and housing.
“Riverine communities require infrastructure in all areas,” he stated. “We lack roads, we lack schools, we lack some critical public services, so our approach for 2026 is to touch these sectors as much as the available resources allow. With the funds allocated to us, we will work to deliver improvements that will positively affect the lives of our people.”
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the state government for responding to the needs of riverine residents who, he said, have long yearned for a stronger government presence.
“Our people are grateful. For the first time, we are seeing real attention given to our terrain. The governor has shown commitment, and we are determined to translate this commitment into visible development,” he added.
The proposed budget is expected to undergo further review before being submitted to the Delta State House of Assembly for legislative approval.
