₦1.66tr 2026 Budget Scales Second Reading in Delta Assembly

The Delta State House of Assembly on Thursday passed the ₦1.664 trillion 2026 Appropriation Billthrough second reading, setting the stage for a more detailed examination at the committee level.

The budget, presented to the House on Wednesday by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, comprises ₦499 billion for recurrent expenditure (30% of the total) and ₦1.165 trillion for capital projects(70% of the estimates).

The bill also sailed through first reading on the day it was laid.

During Thursday’s plenary, presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, lawmakers engaged in extensive debate on the merits of the proposal and unanimously endorsed the fiscal document.

The motion for second reading was moved by the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Hon. Festus Okoh.

Leading the debate, Nwaobi described the appropriation proposal tagged “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda” as both strategic and development-focused. He said it reflects Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to inclusive growth and was drafted after “extensive consultations with major stakeholders, including leadership of communities across the state.” He also advocated for its early passage.

Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo commended the administration for prioritizing infrastructure and the prosperity of Delta people, expressing optimism that the 2026 fiscal year will deliver “accelerated socioeconomic growth.”

Other lawmakers including members representing Bomadi (Hon. Oboro Preyor), Isoko South II (Ferguson Onwo), Ndokwa West (Charles Emetulu), Warri South I (Austin Uroye), Ndokwa East (Emeka Osamuta), Oshimili South (Bridget Anyafulu), and Okpe (James Augoye) praised the Governor’s visionary leadership and his adherence to the rule of law.

They noted that the 70% capital expenditure allocation was particularly significant, describing it as a strong indicator of the government’s commitment to an infrastructural revolution under the “Renewed Hope for MORE” agenda.

The lawmakers agreed that the proposed financial plan aligns with global best practices and would strengthen democratic dividends across the state when passed.

Speaker Guwor thereafter committed the bill to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations, chaired by Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, with all standing committees to serve as sub-committees.

In his remarks, the Speaker applauded members for their quality contributions and urged the committees to embark on a “thorough, transparent, and speedy review” of the proposals.

He added: “As you meet with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), I enjoin you to keep the focus on people-centered governance, accountability and equitable development, ensuring the budget translates into real infrastructure and social gains.”

The Committee on Finance and Appropriations is expected to submit its report on December 9, 2025.