Delta State’s N936 Billion Budget Proposal Seeks to Fuel Infrastructure and Economic Expansion
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Executive Council, presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved a proposed budget of N936 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, with a significant focus on capital projects and infrastructure development.
Briefing the press after the council meeting, State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, detailed the budget structure, which allocates N587.4 billion, or 62.75 per cent, for capital expenditure, while N348.7 billion, representing 37.25 per cent, is dedicated to recurrent expenditure. The budget framework, Ekedayen noted, is based on an exchange rate of N1,300 per dollar, underscoring the state’s economic ambitions amidst fluctuating currency values.
Ekedayen, accompanied by Commissioner for Information Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Mr Charles Aniagwu, and Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure Hon. Ebikeme Clark, emphasised that this budget is both strategic and growth-oriented. “The budget size stands at N936.1 billion, split into capital and recurrent components. This structure supports our commitment to key sectors and reflects a balanced approach between capital and recurrent needs,” he said.
He further highlighted the budget’s 29.12 per cent increase from the current year’s allocation, stating, “Our focus remains clear: agriculture, youth empowerment, tourism, entertainment, poverty alleviation, physical infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”
Emphasising fiscal prudence, Ekedayen assured that the proposed budget would be 100 per cent funded without resorting to borrowing. “A substantial portion of funding will come from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), complemented by internally generated revenue, which we project will reach at least N140 billion.”
Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, remarked that the council also approved a suite of projects aimed at uplifting communities across Delta. “With the two-year anniversary of the administration approaching, we are committed to forward-thinking, impactful planning. Commissioners and Permanent Secretaries have been directed to enforce rigorous oversight, ensuring high standards across all projects, with zero tolerance for subpar execution.”
Osuoza also confirmed key traditional appointments, including HRM Dr Greg N. Oputa as the Obi of Aboh in Ndokwa East and Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, as the Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Oshimili South.
Several infrastructure initiatives were sanctioned, such as the rehabilitation of the Ugwhrughelli/Ehidi road and the construction of Chief Lyn Ivie Akporiche Street in Ughelli North LGA, among others. The council also greenlit the construction of critical roads in Jeddo Okpe, Isoko South, and the NYSC Orientation Camp in Aniocha North, as well as access roads to the Air Force base at Osubi Airport.
Commissioner for Works, Mr Charles Aniagwu, noted that contractors delaying projects for over a year without mobilisation will face termination. “Several new road projects have been approved, including the Uzere Asaba-Ase Bridge and adjoining roads in Ndokwa East and Isoko South,” he said, adding that internal roads in Isoko South and access roads in various communities are also part of the government’s expansionary plans to stimulate local businesses.
In a similar vein, Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure, Hon. Ebikeme Clark, announced the council’s endorsement of Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to riverine development. The council approved the construction of a Model Secondary School in Oporoza and access roads to the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko, both in Warri South-West LGA. Clark stated, “The Governor recognises the importance of connecting the riverine communities to major institutions and economic hubs. The people are hopeful of even greater developments in the future.”
The proposed budget will be presented to the Delta State House of Assembly for further deliberation, marking a pivotal step in the administration’s ongoing commitment to transparency, economic growth, and the enhancement of social infrastructure across the state.
