By Anne Azuka
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday presented a ₦1.664 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly, dedicating a record 70 percent to capital expenditure in a push to accelerate infrastructure development and strengthen the state’s socio-economic outlook.The budget presentation, held at the Assembly Complex in Asaba, was made in line with Section 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Titled the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” the proposal was crafted against the backdrop of forecasts that Nigeria’s GDP will grow by 3.9 percent in 2026.Oborevwori said the budget seeks to promote inclusive and sustainable growth by improving human capital development, strengthening infrastructure, enhancing social cohesion, reducing debt exposure, and driving prudent resource management.Of the total package, ₦499 billion (30%) is earmarked for recurrent expenditure, while ₦ 1.165 trillion (70%) is proposed for capital projects—representing a 70 percent rise from the 2025 capital allocation.The governor projected stronger revenue inflows driven by increased federal allocations following the removal of fuel subsidy. Statutory allocation, including mineral derivation, is estimated at ₦720 billion, accounting for 43.28 percent of total revenue and reflecting a 23.75 percent rise from 2025.Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is also expected to grow significantly. With ongoing reforms to professionalize tax administration and broaden the revenue net, the state targets ₦250 billion in IGR for 2026—an 86.5 percent increase over 2025. He added that ₦120 billion is projected from VAT remittances.
Oborevwori said capital receipts have been intentionally reduced to ₦25 billion as the administration maintains its zero-borrowing stance. An additional ₦489 billion is expected from savings and oil revenue recoveries, which he described as an outcome of “fiscal discipline and prudence.”For recurrent spending, personnel costs are projected at ₦185 billion, overheads at ₦204 billion, and ₦110 billion for social contributions, benefits, and grants. He said these figures reflect the government’s commitment to worker welfare amid prevailing inflationary trends.Highlighting key spending areas, the governor announced that the Works Ministries—covering urban highways and rural/riverine roads—will jointly receive ₦450 billion for accelerated road development. The education sector is allocated ₦105.086 billion to enhance access to functional learning, while the health sector will receive ₦50.067 billion to strengthen infrastructure across 441 primary health centres, 65 general hospitals, and three tertiary institutions.The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency will receive ₦20 billion for flood control and urban infrastructure upgrades, while the Warri, Uvwie and Environs Development Agency is allocated a similar amount to continue major road and flyover projects.In agriculture, ₦10 billion is earmarked to boost food security and agro-investments. The energy sector is allocated ₦16 billion to support the state’s new multi-grid electricity model, while ₦20 billion is set aside for social protection programmes aimed at reducing poverty.The budget also includes ₦100 billion for direct interventions across all 25 local government areas, amounting to an average of ₦4 billion per LGA.
On security, the governor reaffirmed plans to deploy drones, modern surveillance tools, and expanded logistical support for security agencies.Oborevwori thanked the Assembly for its cooperation and urged lawmakers to expedite the budget’s consideration to sustain development gains. He restated his commitment to building “a prosperous, secure, and stronger Delta where no one is left behind.”Earlier, Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor praised the governor’s achievements under the MORE Agenda, including the expansion of road networks, improvements in healthcare and education, and empowerment programmes. He also thanked the governor for approving the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) and beginning the construction of permanent offices for the Assembly Service Commission.The Majority Leader, Hon. Emeke Nwaobi, moved for the adoption of the presentation, seconded by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola. The budget has now been formally laid before the House for legislative consideration.
