Asaba, Sept. 25, 2025 — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced plans for a ₦1 trillion-plus budget for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at boosting socio-economic and infrastructural development across the state.
The Governor disclosed this during the citizens’ engagement on the 2026 budget held Thursday at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba. He was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen.
Capital Spending Takes the Lead
According to the Governor, 67% of the budget will go to capital expenditure, while 33% will cover recurrent costs. This distribution, he said, reflects his administration’s priority on roads, schools, hospitals, and other projects that directly impact growth, while also meeting obligations such as salaries and running government services.
“This gathering is not only a moment for reflection but also a platform to share the progress of our administration, reaffirm our commitment to transparency, and present our vision for the future,” Oborevwori said.
Track Record of Fiscal Discipline
Highlighting progress made so far, the Governor said his administration had cut down waste, enforced financial controls, and reduced the state’s debt profile.
He noted that Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown steadily, thanks to measures like blocking leakages, widening the tax net, and boosting compliance — all without imposing new taxes. “This fiscal responsibility has translated into tangible development across the state,” he stressed.
Agriculture and Investment Push
On agriculture and private-sector growth, Commissioner Ekedayen said the government was developing carbon market opportunities, expanding agriculture, and making land available for investors.
2025 Budget Performance Review
Looking back at the 2025 budget, Ekedayen revealed the state achieved 69% implementation of the capital budget and 86% implementation of the recurrent budget, figures he described as encouraging.
“We are hopeful and confident that the trend will continue until the end of the year as more payments are being processed and more deliveries are being taken,” he said.
Government-Community Partnership
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the state’s commissioners, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, thanked citizens for their continued support. He said the administration’s success was rooted in citizens’ contributions and trust, adding that public monitoring and feedback systems were now in place to ensure projects meet standards.
Civil society leaders and community representatives — including Mr. Rex Anighoro, Prince Igwe, and Mr. Voke Ighorodje — praised the Governor for running an open and inclusive government. They said the engagement proved the administration was serious about participatory governance, ensuring policies and projects match the real needs of the people.
With more than ₦1 trillion projected for 2026, analysts say the proposed budget could be one of Delta State’s most ambitious yet — focusing heavily on development while balancing accountability, citizen input, and sustainable growth.
