Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has presented a bold and development-focused ₦1.664 trillion proposed budget for 2026 to the Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA), proposing an unprecedented 70 percent allocation to capital projects.
The budget underscores the administration’s commitment to massive infrastructure renewal, economic expansion, and strengthened security across the state.
The presentation, held at the Assembly Complex on Wednesday November 26, 2025 in Asaba in line with Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as altered), showcased the Governor’s strategy to accelerate the MORE Agenda while cushioning the impacts of national security pressures and economic instability.
Christened “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” Governor Oborevwori said the proposal was prepared amid signs of a gradually improving national economy, with Nigeria’s GDP expected to grow by 3.9 percent in 2026.
He highlighted rising oil revenues, improved fiscal policies, tax reforms, and enhanced national security interventions as factors bolstering the state’s economic outlook.
A DELIBERATE PUSH FOR DEVELOPMENT AMID INSECURITY
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that dedicating 70 percent of the budget, ₦1.165 trillion, to capital expenditure is a strategic response to increasing infrastructure demands and security challenges.
According to him, robust investments in roads, urban renewal, healthcare, youth empowerment, power infrastructure, and agricultural expansion will not only stimulate economic activities but also strengthen security, enhance surveillance capacity, and reduce vulnerability in rural and riverine areas.
“This budget is designed to deliver inclusive growth, deepen development, and secure our communities,” he stated, noting that well-developed infrastructure remains a critical tool for crime prevention, rapid response, and improved livelihood opportunities.
STRONGER REVENUE BASE, ZERO-BORROWING OUTLOOK
The Governor projected significant increases in federal allocations following subsidy removal, with statutory revenue, including mineral derivation, expected to hit ₦720 billion, a 23.75 percent rise from 2025.
Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is also expected to grow sharply to ₦250 billion, driven by ongoing reforms, professionalized tax processes, and an expanded revenue net.
Value Added Tax (VAT) remittances are projected at ₦120 billion, while capital receipts have been deliberately reduced to ₦25 billion as the state continues its zero-borrowing approach. An additional ₦489 billion is expected from savings and oil revenue recoveries.
EXPENDITURE FRAMEWORK
The recurrent component of the budget stands at ₦499 billion (30%), covering personnel costs (₦185 billion), overheads (₦204 billion), and social benefits and grants (₦110 billion). These reflect inflation realities and the state’s priority for workers’ welfare.
PRIORITY SECTORS FOR 2026
• Works & Infrastructure: ₦450 billion for urban, rural, and riverine road development, including major highways and bridges to ease movement and enhance security presence.
• Education: ₦105.086 billion to improve learning access and upgrade facilities across all levels.
• Health: ₦50.067 billion for renovation and upgrades across 441 primary healthcare centres, 65 general hospitals, and three tertiary institutions.
• Urban Development: ₦20 billion each to the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency and the Warri, Uvwie & Environs Development Agency.
• Agriculture: ₦10 billion to boost food production and agro-investment.
• Energy: ₦16 billion to advance the state’s multi-grid electricity plan.
• Social Protection: ₦20 billion to expand social welfare programmes for vulnerable households.
• Local Government Direct Interventions: ₦100 billion earmarked for projects across all 25 LGAs.
SECURITY INVESTMENT TO PROTECT DEVELOPMENT GAINS
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his commitment to a safer Delta, announcing plans to deploy drones, modern surveillance systems, and increased logistics support for security agencies.
He stressed that investments in security will safeguard the state’s massive capital projects and sustain investor confidence.
ASSEMBLY PLEDGES COOPERATION
In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, described the presentation as a reaffirmation of the government’s pact with the people.
He commended the Governor for the visible achievements under the MORE Agenda, flyovers, extensive road construction, healthcare upgrades, educational improvements, and empowerment initiatives.
Guwor also praised the Governor for approving CONLESS for legislative workers and initiating permanent offices for the Assembly Service Commission.
He assured that the Assembly will thoroughly and promptly consider the budget to maintain development momentum and uphold people-centered governance.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Emeke Nwaobi, moved for the adoption of the budget presentation, seconded by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Chairperson of the Finance and Appropriations Committee.
The 2026 Appropriation Bill has now been formally laid before the House for legislative consideration
