ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced plans by his administration to present a budget of over ₦1 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at consolidating socio-economic and infrastructural development across the state.
The governor made this known on Thursday during the state government’s citizens’ engagement on the 2026 budget, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba. Represented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, Governor Oborevwori explained that 67 per cent of the budget would be devoted to capital expenditure, while 33 per cent would go to recurrent expenditure.
According to him, the distribution reflects his administration’s resolve to prioritise infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other critical projects, while also sustaining obligations such as workers’ salaries and operational costs of government. He emphasised that the capital bias of the budget underscores a deliberate focus on growth, development, and improved service delivery.
“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. “Over the past two years, this administration has worked tirelessly to ensure fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in governance. We have reduced waste, strengthened financial control measures, and ensured that every kobo spent by government delivers value to our people.”
The governor further disclosed that through prudent financial management, the state’s debt profile had been significantly reduced, creating room for sustainable growth. He noted that Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) had grown steadily without new tax burdens on citizens, thanks to improved compliance, blockage of leakages, and an expanded tax net.
On agriculture and private sector participation, Ekedayen said initiatives were being developed to promote carbon markets, expand agricultural opportunities, and allocate land to attract investment. Reviewing the 2025 budget, he revealed that Delta State achieved 69 per cent implementation of the capital budget and 86 per cent of the recurrent budget.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the College of Commissioners, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, commended Deltans for their support and feedback, stressing that the administration’s success was tied to citizens’ partnership. He assured that transparency and accountability would remain central to project delivery.
“This is why mechanisms such as public monitoring and feedback channels have been established to ensure that projects are delivered to standard,” Aniagwu stated.
Civil society leaders, including Mr. Rex Anighoro, Prince Igwe, and Mr. Voke Ighorodje, also praised the administration’s people-oriented approach. They described the engagement as a clear demonstration of transparency and participatory governance, adding that by involving stakeholders in the budget process, the government was ensuring that policies and projects reflect the real needs of the people.
