Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has presented a N936.08 billion Appropriation Bill for the 2025 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly. The proposed budget, termed the "Budget of Fiscal Consolidation," includes a recurrent expenditure of N348.72 billion, or 37.25% of the total, and a capital expenditure of N587.36 billion, representing 62.75% of the budget.
Governor Oborevwori explained that the 2025 budget shows a 29% increase over the previous year’s N725 billion allocations. He attributed this rise to a realignment of the exchange rate, which increased FAAC allocations, as well as a boost in the state's internally generated revenue.
The Governor highlighted that several provisions within the budget aim to address the economic challenges posed by the recent removal of fuel subsidies. These initiatives include expanded social protection programs, rural infrastructure enhancements, and investments in agriculture and MSMEs.
“This budget focuses on sustaining infrastructure development, human capital growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation,” the Governor said. He further outlined those significant allocations had been made for priority sectors: N230 billion for road infrastructure, N67.42 billion for education, N30.55 billion for health, N11.03 billion for water resources, and N7 billion for agriculture.
In response, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, praised the Governor’s fiscal responsibility and commitment to completing projects inherited from the previous administration. He noted the Governor’s return of over N500 million to the state coffers during his tenure as Speaker and his efforts in saving over N14 billion for Local Government Councils across the state.
The Speaker encouraged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to fully cooperate during the upcoming budget defense sessions, emphasizing the importance of timely passage for effective implementation. The budget motion was moved by House Majority Leader Hon. Emeka Nwaobi and seconded by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Member Representing Ika North East Constituency.
The presentation, attended by Delta Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and a delegation from the Bayelsa State House of Assembly led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Abraham Ngobere, underscored the state’s ongoing commitment to prudent resource management and strategic development.