By Festus Ahon
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s assumption of office on May 29, 2023, marked a transformative shift in Delta State’s governance.
Guided by his M.O.R.E Agenda, Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security, his administration has, within two years, delivered visible progress defined by inclusivity, strategic reforms, and fiscal prudence.
Revenue Growth and Fiscal Reforms Delta State witnessed an almost 90% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), rising from N83 billion in 2023 to N158 billion in 2024, with projections at N165 billion for 2025.
This was achieved without raising personal income taxes, thanks to reforms in the revenue service and improved public service delivery. Additionally, the state’s debt profile was significantly reduced by 46%, from N465.3 billion to N249.2 billion by the end of 2024.
Workers’ Welfare and Civil Service Reforms Governor Oborevwori approved a new minimum wage of N77,500, raising the monthly wage bill from N11.5 billion to N15.3 billion.
Over 8,000 civil servants, including 450 senior managers, received capacity training.
Over 3,000 new teaching and non-teaching staff were recruited for primary schools, while mobility was improved through the distribution of vehicles to permanent secretaries.
Infrastructure Development Over 513 roads and bridges covering more than 1,500 km of roads and 950 km of drainage are under construction. Noteworthy projects include:
The Ultra-Modern High Court Complex
Flyovers and a sleepway interchange in Warri/Effurun
Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass in Asaba
Ughelli–Asaba dual carriageway (99% completed)
Emevor–Orogun road (Phase I completed, Phase II underway)
Multiple urban and rural road upgrades and drainage systems across the state
Urban Renewal and PPP Projects Urban renewal is gaining traction through PPPs such as the Asaba International Market and the Asaba Waterfront City project.
Agencies like DSCTDA, WUEDA, and DESOPADEC continue driving development in urban centers and oil-producing communities.
Human Capital Development and Economic Empowerment The M.O.R.E Grant Scheme empowered over 5,400 petty traders, artisans, and women entrepreneurs.
The D-CARES program benefited over 250,000 individuals. Over 80 solar-powered boreholes were completed, and urban water systems rehabilitated under SURWASH.
Agricultural investments have reached over 6,000 farmers, with an additional 2,000 set to benefit under AUDA-NEPAD. A partnership with AfDB has created over 50,000 jobs through the development of Special Agricultural Economic Zones.
Healthcare and Education Delta State invested over N3 billion in modern diagnostic equipment and renovated more than 250 primary healthcare centers.
Over two million residents are enrolled in the contributory health scheme. In education, 30,000 students received bursaries totaling N674 million.
The state continues funding nine functional tertiary institutions and revitalizing over 150 primary and secondary schools.
Judiciary and Housing Judicial independence was bolstered by providing 20 SUVs to judges, constructing Judges’ Quarters, and establishing an e-enabled High Court Complex. Housing projects are ongoing in Ozoro
