Feature
Oborevwori Unveils Ambitious N1.729 Trillion Delta 2026 Budget: A Renewed Commitment To Accelerating The MORE Agenda
By Ejiroghene Ibuakevwe
The presentation and eventual signing into law of the ₦1.729 trillion Delta State 2026 Appropriation Act by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, marks yet another defining chapter in the steady evolution of governance, development, and visionary leadership in Delta State. Originally proposed at ₦1.664 trillion and subsequently adjusted upward following legislative review, the final budget underscores the governor’s responsiveness to the state’s growing developmental needs and economic realities. Christened the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” this historic fiscal plan once again demonstrates a bold, pragmatic, and deeply people-centred approach to governance.
At a time when subnational governments face increasing economic constraints, rising inflation, dwindling federal allocations, and expanding development demands, Governor Oborevwori’s ₦1.729 trillion budget stands out for its clarity of purpose, strategic depth, and unmistakable determination to transform Delta State’s social and economic landscape. The upward review of the budget further reflects a shared resolve between the executive and legislative arms to fast-track development and adequately fund priority sectors.
The 2026 budget is not just a financial document; it is a clear and compelling statement of intent. It reflects a governor who understands the urgency of development, the expectations of the people, and the necessity of accelerating ongoing reforms and projects. The MORE Agenda—Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security—remains the guiding philosophy of this administration. With the expanded ₦1.729 trillion fiscal framework, the government is better positioned to deepen the impact of its programmes and consolidate the gains recorded over the past two years.
In his budget address, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, infrastructural expansion, economic diversification, youth empowerment, and social stability. The 2026 fiscal plan devotes substantial resources to road and bridge construction, healthcare delivery, education, rural development, job creation, agriculture, and social welfare—ensuring that development touches every Deltan, irrespective of geography or social status. The size and scope of the approved budget reflect a government unwilling to settle for incremental progress but firmly determined to deliver accelerated transformation.
Over the past two years, Delta State has witnessed remarkable infrastructural renewal under Oborevwori’s leadership. Long-abandoned roads have been rehabilitated, new highways opened to improve mobility, rural communities reconnected to economic hubs, and inherited projects pursued with uncommon dedication. One of the governor’s most admirable qualities is his commitment to continuity. Unlike the unfortunate practice of abandoning ongoing projects, Oborevwori has insisted on completing inherited infrastructure, recognizing that public funds must be protected and development must be uninterrupted.
The ₦1.729 trillion 2026 budget amplifies this philosophy by providing stronger financial backing for strategic and economically impactful projects. The accelerated MORE Agenda includes the speedy completion of road networks across the three senatorial districts, intensified urban renewal in Warri, Effurun, Asaba, Ughelli, and Sapele, as well as expanded rural development initiatives for underserved communities. This balanced focus once again demonstrates the governor’s understanding that development must be inclusive and evenly distributed.
Education continues to receive priority attention in the 2026 budget. Governor Oborevwori recognizes that human capital development remains the backbone of sustainable progress. Increased funding is directed toward school rehabilitation, strengthening tertiary institutions, teacher training, and provision of learning materials. With the enhanced budget size, the administration is better equipped to expand access to quality education, improve learning environments, and equip Delta students with skills required in the digital age.
Healthcare equally enjoys renewed focus. Drawing lessons from global health challenges, the administration has strengthened its commitment to building a resilient healthcare system. The 2026 budget increases investment in hospitals, modern medical equipment, primary healthcare centres, and the state health insurance scheme. Special attention is given to maternal and child healthcare, disease prevention, and universal access to affordable healthcare services—further reflecting the governor’s belief that a healthy population is the foundation of sustainable development.
Youth empowerment remains central to the MORE Agenda. At a time of nationwide unemployment challenges, Governor Oborevwori has consistently created opportunities for young people through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, vocational training, and job creation programmes. The expanded 2026 budget strengthens these initiatives, opening wider funding channels and training pipelines in agriculture, ICT, entertainment, construction, and small-scale manufacturing.
Peace and security also remain a major focus. Delta State has enjoyed relative stability under Oborevwori’s leadership due to strategic engagement with community leaders, traditional institutions, youth groups, and security agencies. The 2026 budget makes enhanced provisions for security infrastructure, community policing, intelligence gathering, and modern surveillance systems—ensuring a safe environment for investment, business growth, and communal harmony.
What is increasingly evident is that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is redefining public leadership in Delta State. His governance style is marked by consultation, strategic planning, and decisive execution. The results are visible: improved infrastructure, strengthened institutions, better service delivery, and renewed confidence among the people.
Given the scale of ongoing projects and the bold vision encapsulated in the MORE Agenda, supporting Governor Oborevwori for a second term is not just desirable—it is imperative. Development thrives on continuity. The transformational impact of governance is best realized when capable leadership is sustained. A second term will allow the governor to consolidate gains, complete major projects, and fully deliver on his developmental blueprint.
Delta State stands on the threshold of historic transformation. The ₦1.729 trillion 2026 budget is a powerful declaration of that future—a future of prosperity, modern infrastructure, empowered citizens, and strong institutions. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has shown vision, competence, and unwavering commitment. Deltans must rally behind him, support his re-election, and give him the opportunity to complete the remarkable transformation already underway.
Ejiroghene Ibuakevwe is the immediate Past President General of Edjeba Community, Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, Warri South LGA