The Delta State House of Assembly is gearing up for a crucial year, with expectations high among citizens for tangible results. As lawmakers prepare to resume plenary after the Christmas and New Year recess, the focus is on whether the legislature will translate promises into concrete actions to address the state's pressing issues.
An Agenda for Impactful Governance
In a recent statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Nkem Nwaeke, outlined a bold vision for the 8th Assembly under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. Nwaeke declared that 2026 presents a pivotal opportunity for the Assembly to redefine its relevance and productivity.
The core mission is to evolve into a truly people-oriented legislature, shifting from ceremonial lawmaking to impactful governance. This will involve direct engagement with citizens across Delta State, with their input shaping future legislative actions.
Key Legislative Priorities for the Year
The Assembly's agenda for the year is packed with initiatives aimed at driving development. Nwaeke highlighted several key areas of focus:
- Economic Growth and Job Creation: Legislative interventions to boost internally generated revenue (IGR), support SMEs, and create an investor-friendly environment will be paramount.
- Critical Sectors: Bills targeting infrastructure, education, healthcare delivery, and social welfare are expected to be prioritized.
- Institutional Strengthening: The House plans to pass key legislation aimed at improving transparency, strengthening institutions, and enhancing public service delivery.
Intensified Oversight and Collaborative Governance
A major thrust for the year will be a more rigorous oversight function. Nwaeke stressed that the Assembly will intensify scrutiny of government policies and projects. This is seen as critical to ensuring accountability, the prudent use of public funds, and that government programs deliver real benefits to communities, addressing concerns over abandoned projects.
Furthermore, the CPS highlighted Speaker Guwor's emphasis on inter-governmental cooperation. The Assembly intends to sustain a harmonious working relationship with the executive branch in 2026 while maintaining its constitutional independence. This synergy is deemed essential for the smooth passage of bills and execution of development plans.
The Assembly also plans to deepen inclusiveness by engaging stakeholders, including the media, to ensure laws reflect the broad aspirations of Deltans. Expressing confidence in the Speaker's leadership, Nwaeke noted that Guwor, who also serves as National Treasurer of the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, continues to push members toward greater diligence, patriotism, and responsibility.
"Deltans look up to the Assembly not just for laws, but for leadership, advocacy, and solutions," Nwaeke concluded, encapsulating the heightened expectations as the legislative year begins.
