THE Delta State Government has unveiled details of the 2026 Appropriation Law, with a total budget size of N1.7 trillion, committing over 70 per cent to capital expenditure in a renewed push to deepen infrastructural development and social investment across the state.
Briefing journalists in Asaba, Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, said the 2026 Budget, recently passed by the Delta State House of Assembly and assented to by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represents a major leap from the 2025 Budget of N979 billion.
Ekedayen explained that the initial estimate of N1.664 trillion sent to the House was subject to legislative review, which resulted in marginal adjustments that ultimately served the best interest of the state.
He noted that the budget, now a legal and “live” document, would take effect from January 1, 2026.
“The most significant aspect of this budget is the strong tilt towards capital expenditure. For the first time, Delta State is prioritising capital projects to the tune of over N1.165 trillion, representing at least 70 per cent of the total budget,” he said.
He described the development as historic, noting that the capital component of the 2026 budget is even larger than the entire 2025 budget; a move he said would accelerate development across the state’s 25 local government areas.
The Commissioner, who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Projects and Policies, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika; and the Executive Assistant on Media, Mr. Felix Ofou, said the administration was determined to “hit the ground running” from the first day of 2026.
According to him, ongoing projects would be completed without abandonment, while new ones would be carefully selected for maximum impact.
He disclosed that contractors were usually mobilised up to 40 per cent to ensure timely delivery, especially given the state’s relatively short construction season.
