Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday announced a budget proposal of N1.664 trillion for its services in the 2026 fiscal year.
The amount is made up of N499 billion, representing 30% of the total budget for recurrent expenditure, and N1.165 trillion, representing 70% of the total budget for capital expenditure.
The 2026 budget size indicates an increase of N685 billion, or 70% over the 2025 appropriation of N979 billion.
Presenting the proposal, christened “Budget of Accelerating the More Agenda”, to the state house of assembly on Wednesday, Gov Oborevwori said he noted that rising oil revenues, stabilising fiscal and monetary policies, tax reforms, and renewed federal efforts in tackling insecurity have rekindled hope for economic expansion and improved living standards.
The governor explained that the 2026 budget is designed to drive inclusive and sustainable growth, develop human capital, accelerate infrastructure renewal, enhance social cohesion, reduce debt exposure, and ensure better resource management.
The governor said funds for the budget will be sourced mainly from statutory allocation, internally generated revenue, mineral derivation, value-added tax, other capital receipts, savings and oil revenue recoveries.
Gov Oborevwori gave the breakdown of the recurrent expenditure estimates of N499 billion to include personnel costs of N185 billion, representing 37% of the proposed recurrent budget, while N204 billion, representing approximately 41% is being earmarked for overheads.
According to him, the balance of N110Billion is accounted for by social contributions, benefits, and grants, while the personnel cost of N185 billion anticipates the annual increments and allowances, with the overhead cost mirroring the inflationary trend in the country.
On capital estimates, the governor disclosed that the proposed N535 billion is 85% higher than the 2025 capital budget of N630 billion.
This, he said, is largely accounted for by the larger budget size of N1.664 trillion, as against N979.2 billion for 2025.
With increased pressure on social amenities and infrastructure occasioned by its growing population, we will continue to invest in new roads, schools and recreational facilities to enable it to mitigate the effects of rapid urbanisation.
The stormwater drainage project, a multi-billion-naira investment currently being executed, will permanently address the challenge of perennial flooding in the capital city when completed.
On sectoral, the sum of N20 billion is proposed for the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency and N20 billion is earmarked for Warri, Uvwie, and Environs Development Agency
The governor noted that Warri is beginning to come alive again, saying, “With the major roads and flyover projects now taking shape, the city and surrounding metropolis are now wearing a new look of modernity.
“The residents who spoke with nostalgia about the good old days are now brimming with hope and excitement that the city is on track to regain its lost glory. ”
Announcing the sum of N16 billion for the Ministry of Energy in the budget and to ensure a robust growth of the informal sector, Oborewvori said his administration is poised to ensure the success of the multi-grid template the state is about to introduce in the power and energy sector to overcome the challenges posed by unreliable and insufficient electricity supply from the national grid.
The sum of N10 billion was earmarked for the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the budget.
N20 billion to support social protection programmes and initiatives, N100 billion for direct intervention to local government councils following an avalanche of requests from leaders and communities.
On Security, Oborewvori said the administration has invested heavily in security infrastructure upgrades and will continue to do so for enhanced peace and security.
“We are looking at deploying cutting-edge technology, including drones and sophisticated intelligence gathering capabilities and surveillance equipment.
“All these are in addition to the prompt payment of personnel emoluments and allowances, as well as the provision of covert logistics.”
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor described the budget presentation as an affirmation of the covenant between government and citizens.
He praised the governor’s leadership, noting significant achievements under the MORE Agenda, including strategic flyovers, expanded road networks, improved healthcare facilities, strengthened education, and empowerment programmes.
Guwor also commended the governor for approving the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) and initiating the construction of permanent offices for the Assembly Service Commission.
He assured the governor of the Assembly’s resolve to undertake a thorough and timely review of the appropriation bill, stressing that the Legislature remains committed to people-centred governance, accountability, and equitable development.
