…Prioritises Roads, Agriculture, Critical Infrastructure in Proposed 2027 Budget

The Delta State Government says it has reduced the state’s inherited legacy debt from ₦463 billion to ₦63 billion, representing a reduction of approximately ₦400 billion, with plans to settle the outstanding balance by the first quarter of 2027.

The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this during the 2026 Budget Stakeholders’ Engagement held on Friday at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

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Ekedayen attributed the reported debt reduction to the fiscal management approach of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, which he said was focused on prudent financial management, responsible resource utilisation and improved budget implementation.

He explained that the government was determined to sustain its debt-reduction efforts while directing available resources towards projects capable of stimulating economic growth and improving the living conditions of residents.

According to the commissioner, roads and other critical infrastructure would receive priority attention in the proposed 2027 budget, particularly projects aimed at improving connectivity and opening up communities across the state.

He disclosed that the current expenditure framework allocates approximately 70 per cent of government spending to capital projects, while recurrent expenditure accounts for the remaining 30 per cent.

Ekedayen added that the proposed 2027 budget would maintain its emphasis on capital investment while ensuring that recurrent expenditure remained within a manageable limit.

Asagba, CSOs Make Recommendations

Speaking at the engagement, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, underscored the importance of citizens’ participation in the budget preparation process, noting that public involvement would promote transparency, accountability and inclusive governance.

The traditional ruler also commended the state government over its reported budget performance and encouraged stakeholders to continue contributing constructive ideas towards the development of Delta State.

Similarly, representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) welcomed the proposed introduction of legislation by the Delta State House of Assembly to regulate housing-related issues.

The stakeholders also highlighted the need for residents to support government development initiatives by protecting public infrastructure, maintaining environmental cleanliness and ensuring that public facilities were not subjected to vandalism.

One of the participants, Odugala, cautioned residents against destroying public infrastructure provided through taxpayers’ resources.

“Government cannot continue to build infrastructure, then citizens begin to destroy them,” he said.

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Odugala also commended the Oborevwori administration for introducing the 13th-month salary initiative, describing it as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to improve workers’ welfare.

The engagement provided an opportunity for traditional institutions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to contribute recommendations towards shaping the state’s 2027 fiscal priorities, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture and economic development.