The Delta State House of Assembly on Monday, December 15, 2025, passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill, increasing the budget from ₦1.664 trillion proposed by the executive to ₦1.729 trillion, following a thorough review by lawmakers. Speaking to journalists after Governor Sheriff Oborevwori signed the bill into law, Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor said the increase was carefully considered to address urgent development and social needs across the state.
“What was presented to the House was a proposal. Our duty as legislators is to examine it thoroughly and ensure it meets the real needs of Deltans,” Guwor explained. “Through sector-by-sector scrutiny and consultations with stakeholders, we identified areas requiring additional funding. That process accounts for the ₦65.6 billion increase.”
He said the revised budget now includes ₦1.229 trillion for capital expenditure and ₦500 billion for recurrent spending, reflecting the House’s commitment to infrastructure-led development and sustainable governance. “Every extra naira was directed to critical sectors such as social welfare, education, security, and economic development,” the Speaker added.
Guwor highlighted the Social Investment Programme Law, which carries a ₦10 billion allocation in the budget, as one of the major contributors to the increase. “Other sectors were also strengthened to address pressing needs. This is not about figures for the sake of it; it is about ensuring that Deltans benefit directly from the state’s resources,” he said.
The Speaker emphasised that the decision was collective, reflecting the constitutional role of the Assembly to protect the interests of the people. “This increase is the outcome of thorough scrutiny, stakeholder engagement, and a deep understanding of the state’s development priorities,” Guwor said.
He also assured Deltans that the Assembly would exercise robust oversight, with standing committees monitoring ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to ensure that funds are used strictly in line with the law and the approved programmes.
“This budget, now christened the ‘Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,’ reflects our shared vision with the Executive to accelerate development, improve social welfare, and ensure no one is left behind in Delta State,” Guwor stated.
In addition to the budget, Governor Oborevwori signed three other key bills into law: the Delta State Social Investment Programme Law, the Colleges of Education Law, 2025, and the Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, 2025. According to the Speaker, these laws complement the budget by reinforcing social welfare, education, and security across the state.
“The passage and assent to these laws demonstrate the productive synergy between the Legislature and the Executive,” Guwor said. “Together, these measures are designed to deliver tangible benefits to Deltans, strengthen governance, and advance socio-economic development in Delta State.”
