By Anne Azuka
The Delta State Government has announced plans to undertake a comprehensive rebranding and total overhaul of its three state-owned media organizations as part of the 2026 fiscal year budget.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made this known on Monday in Asaba during the ministry’s budget defence session before the State Ministry of Economic Planning.
According to Aniagwu, the initiative, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is aimed at modernizing and strengthening the state’s communication platforms. The affected institutions include The Pointer Newspapers, Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Asaba, and DBS Warri.
“Our priority in 2026 is to strengthen The Pointer, DBS Asaba, and DBS Warri, and reposition them for modern broadcasting and publishing,” Aniagwu said. “We want to give these institutions a brand-new look. His Excellency believes the time has come for a paradigm shift and a total package that will rebrand our media houses in line with the MORE Agenda.”
The commissioner disclosed that the proposed 2026 budget for the Ministry of Information is estimated at slightly over N5 billion, with N2.073 billion allocated for recurrent expenditure and N3 billion for capital projects. The budget, he said, represents a modest increase over the 2025 allocation.
He explained that the ministry’s capital projects for 2025 were delayed due to the government’s decision to embark on a full-scale restructuring of the three parastatals, rather than make piecemeal refurbishments.
Aniagwu highlighted operational challenges, including inadequate official vehicles and dilapidated infrastructure, expressing hope that the 2026 budget would address these issues.
“At the moment, even my Permanent Secretary does not have an official vehicle,” he lamented. “We are hopeful that the new budget will bridge these gaps and enhance the ministry’s efficiency.”
The commissioner added that the ministry is prioritizing effective public engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections to combat misinformation and promote accurate reporting of government activities.
“As we approach 2027, political activities will increase, and our ministry must be well-equipped to engage the public effectively and maintain a positive government image,” he said.
Aniagwu also pointed to achievements in information dissemination, social media engagement, and collaboration with journalists, while reiterating the government’s commitment to staff welfare and capacity building for improved service delivery.
In his response, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, commended the Ministry of Information for its communication efforts and assured that the ministry’s budget proposal would be reviewed positively.
“We appreciate the ministry’s efforts in promoting government policies and programmes,” Ekedayen stated. “We’ll review your proposals and consider partnerships with the private sector to ensure long-term sustainability.”
The Directorate of Government House and Protocols, led by Permanent Secretary Mr. Victor Udi, also appeared before the committee to defend its budget proposal.
Speaking with journalists after the session, Aniagwu reaffirmed the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to timely project delivery and prompt payment of salaries, noting that Delta remains one of the few states that pays civil servants as early as the 24th of every month.
He concluded that the 2026 fiscal plan will sustain Delta’s record of inclusive development, ensuring that both upland and riverine communities benefit from government projects and programmes.
