…Allocates 70% To capital projects
WED NOV 26 2025-theGBJournal| Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday delivered his 2026 budget with details of spending plans, as he banks on zero-borrowing, VAT remittances, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) as well as expectations of improving Federal allocations, following the removal of fuel subsidy.
The Governor’s budget is an eye-watering N1.664 trillion of which 70% is dedicated to capital expenditure, signaling an aggressive push for infrastructure expansion and socio-economic development in the 2026 fiscal year.
N499 billion (30%) is proposed for recurrent expenditure, while N1.165 trillion (70%) is earmarked for capital projects, representing a 70% increase over the 2025 appropriation.
On revenue expectations, Oborevwori stated that the state anticipates significant improvement in Federal allocations following the removal of fuel subsidy.
Statutory Allocation including mineral derivation is projected at N720 billion, accounting for 43.28% of total revenue, reflecting a 23.75% rise from the previous year.
He also disclosed that ongoing reforms in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) collection are expected to yield N250 billion in 2026, an 86.5% increase over 2025, driven by professionalized revenue processes and a broader tax net.
The governor noted a “projected N120 billion from VAT remittances”, citing improved VAT administration at the national level, adding that capital receipts are deliberately reduced to N25 billion as the state aims to maintain a zero-borrowing posture, while N489 billion is expected from savings and oil revenue recoveries, reflecting what he described as “the fiscal discipline and prudence” of his administration.
In the expenditure breakdown, personnel costs are estimated at N185 billion, overheads at N204 billion, and N110 billion allocated for social contributions, benefits, and grants.
The governor emphasized that these figures reflect inflationary trends and the state’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
Oborevwori highlighted key sectors earmarked for priority funding in 2026, saying that the Works Ministries (Urban Highways, and Rural and Riverine Roads) will jointly receive N450 billion to accelerate strategic road development across the state.
Education is allocated N105.086 billion to strengthen access to functional learning, while the health sector receives N50.067 billion to improve existing infrastructures across 441 primary healthcare centres, 65 general hospitals, and three tertiary facilities.
The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency is slated to receive N20 billion, with the governor reaffirming his commitment to addressing flooding and expanding urban infrastructure in Asaba.
A similar sum is allocated to the Warri, Uvwie and Environs Development Agency, as massive road and flyover projects continue reshaping the oil city.
In the areas of agriculture, energy, and social protection, the proposed budget dedicates N10 billion to boost food security and agro-investment; N16 billion to strengthen electricity supply through the state’s upcoming multi-grid template; and N20 billion to scale up social intervention programmes aimed at lifting more Deltans out of poverty.
Additionally, N100 billion is reserved for direct interventions across all 25 local government areas, translating into an average of N4 billion each.
On security, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to deploy cutting-edge technology, including drones and advanced surveillance equipment while continuing logistical and financial support to security agencies.
Governor Oborevwori said the budget was crafted against the backdrop of an improving national economy, with Nigeria’s GDP projected to grow by 3.9% in 2026, and designed to drive inclusive and sustainable growth, develop human capital, accelerate infrastructure renewal, enhance social cohesion, reduce debt exposure, and ensure better resource management.
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.
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