The Delta State House of Assembly has officially passed the state's Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year, setting the total budget at a substantial N1.73 trillion. This figure represents a significant increase of N65.6 billion over the initial proposal presented by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Legislative Scrutiny and Budget Breakdown
The approved budget, which moved from the governor's proposed N1.664 trillion to the final N1.73 trillion, was passed during a plenary session on Monday, December 15, 2025. The session was presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, who represents the Warri South-West constituency.
A detailed analysis of the budget estimates shows a clear commitment to development. A sum of N500 billion is earmarked for recurrent expenditure, which covers the day-to-day running of the government. Meanwhile, a much larger portion, N1.229 trillion, is allocated for capital projects. This heavy investment in infrastructure underscores the administration's focus on its development blueprint, known as the "MORE Agenda."
The Passage Process and Legislative Remarks
The bill successfully passed its third reading after the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations, led by its Chairman, Hon. Marylin Okowa-Daramola of Ika North-East, presented its report. The final motion for passage was moved by the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi (Aniocha North), and was seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo (Ethiope East). The bill was then unanimously adopted by the Assembly.
Following the approval, Speaker Guwor hailed the moment as a "landmark achievement" for the state legislature. He emphasized that the Assembly had successfully executed one of its core constitutional duties as outlined in Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
"Through the process of deliberation and scrutiny, this House has ensured that the budget is people-centred and sustainable," Guwor stated. He added that the N1.73 trillion budget reflects a common vision between the legislative and executive arms to build a more equitable Delta State. The Speaker confirmed that the Assembly has now provided the necessary legislative backing for the governor to implement his programs in the coming year.
Related Sports Achievement
In a separate but notable development, the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, also known as Onos, has dedicated his recent international award to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Onoriode secured his 3rd Nigeria-France Sports Award in Paros.
Speaking to reporters, he credited the governor's support and the enabling environment created in Delta State for his success. "I dedicate this award to my family, to my elder brother, the Governor of Delta State, and the special people of Delta State, especially my athletes," Onoriode said. He expressed his gratitude, stating that the athletes were instrumental in his achievement.
This budget passage has sparked renewed conversations about fiscal planning, the role of the legislature in amending executive proposals, and the overall credibility of the budgetary process in Delta State as it prepares for the 2026 fiscal year.
