In a strong display of fiscal discipline and governance efficiency, Delta State has been ranked second nationwide in budget implementation for the first half of 2024, achieving an impressive 97.9 per cent execution rate.
The state came just behind Yobe State, which led with 98.6 per cent.
The figures, published by Agora Policy, a respected Nigerian think tank, follow a comprehensive analysis of States’ Budget Implementation Reports and independent fiscal data evaluation.
Delta’s performance puts it ahead of other traditionally dominant states including Rivers (93.4 per cent), Ekiti (87.9 per cent), Lagos (87.0 per cent), as well as Bauchi (86.9 per cent), Osun (86.5 per cent), Edo (83.2 per cent), Kogi (79.9 per cent), and Akwa Ibom (79.1 per cent).
According to Agora Policy, the rankings reflect more than just statistics; they reveal how well state governments are delivering on promises made to citizens.
The organisation described the near-complete implementation by Yobe and Delta as “clear indicators of planning matched with decisive action.”
For Delta, the 97.9 per cent execution further boosts its rising profile as a model of effective governance and public accountability.
Policy analysts believe that if the current momentum is sustained, Delta State could claim the top spot in the next reporting cycle, a prospect that fuels optimism around ongoing reform efforts under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
It has been reported that in an era marked by widespread borrowing among Nigerian states, the Delta has distinguished itself through strict fiscal discipline. Since Governor Oborevwori assumed office on May 29, 2023, his administration has maintained a zero-debt policy.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, the State Commissioner for Finance, Sir Fidelis Tilije, reaffirmed this commitment. “Since the inception of this administration led by Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State, has not borrowed a single dime or engaged in any borrowing relationship whatsoever,” Tilije declared.
Supporting the claim, the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, praised the governor’s transparent approach to governance and financial management.
“Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management is yielding visible results across Delta. Stakeholders can now clearly see that this government walks its talk,” Aniagwu said.
Reacting to the report, Yobe’s Focal Person on Digital and Strategic Communications, Yusuf Ali, credited his state’s near-perfect score to “fiscal responsibility and purposeful leadership” under Governor Mai Mala Buni.
Observers note that Delta State’s zero-debt stance, combined with its 97.9 per cent budget implementation in the first half of 2024, positions it as a benchmark for good governance and fiscal responsibility in Nigeria.
