Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has presented a landmark budget proposal of N1.664 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly. The presentation, which took place on Wednesday, marks a significant financial commitment aimed at accelerating development across the state.
A Budget of Historic Proportions
Tagged the "Budget of Accelerating the More Agenda", the 2026 proposal represents a massive 70 per cent increase, or an additional N685 billion, compared to the 2025 appropriation. Governor Oborevwori outlined a spending plan that heavily prioritizes capital projects, with N1.165 trillion (70%) allocated for capital expenditure and N499 billion (30%) for recurrent costs.
This allocation ratio underscores the administration's infrastructure-driven strategy for economic growth and development.
Key Sectoral Allocations and Economic Outlook
The Ministry of Works emerged as the biggest beneficiary, receiving a colossal N450 billion allocation. This sum, which constitutes roughly 27% of the entire budget, is split between Urban Highways and Rural/Riverine Roads, highlighting the governor's determination to "accelerate infrastructure renewal" in all parts of the state.
Other critical sectors also received significant boosts:
- Education: N105.086 billion to continue prioritising qualitative and functional education.
- Health: N50.067 billion for the Ministry of Health.
- Social Protection: N20 billion for welfare programmes.
- Agriculture: N10 billion for the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Governor Oborevwori projected a bright economic future, forecasting a 3.9 per cent GDP growth for Delta State in 2026. He attributed this optimistic outlook to an expected recovery in oil revenue, stable fiscal and monetary policies, and improved foreign investment.
Industrialisation Drive and Legislative Support
In a related development aimed at repositioning Delta as an industrial hub, the state government has announced plans to secure a ₦1 billion loan from the Bank of Industry (BOI). This initiative, disclosed at the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Edo/Delta Branch, is designed to boost technology-enabled manufacturing.
Represented by the Deputy Director (Industries), Mr. Ocheli Jude, the Governor emphasized the need for the state to adapt to global shifts in manufacturing, stating, "Digitalisation, green energy involvement and artificial intelligence are gaining ground... and we must take the initiative so we don’t lag."
Back in the assembly, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor, assured Governor Oborevwori of the legislature's commitment to an accelerated passage of the budget, signaling a collaborative effort to swiftly implement the proposed development plans for the benefit of Deltans.
