The 2026 Appropriation Bill of 1.664 trillion naira, passed on Thursday, passed second reading on the floor of the Delta State House of Assembly, setting the stage for further legislative scrutiny at the committee level.
The bill, which was presented to the House on Wednesday by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and read the first time on the same day, is made up of ₦499 billion for recurrent spending, representing about 30 % of the total budget and ₦1.165 trillion for capital projects, representing 70% of the total estimates.
Debate on the merits of the bill dominated Thursday’s plenary, presided over by Speaker Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor as Lawmakers unanimously endorsed the 2026 estimates.
The motion for the second reading was moved by the Leader of the House, Hon Emeka Nwaobi (Aniocha North), and seconded by Deputy Leader Festus Okoh (Ika South).
The House Leader, Emeka Nwaobi, who led the debate on the merits of the money bill christened “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda “, described it as apt and a true manifestation of Governor Oborevwori’s development-driven vision for Delta state.
Nwaobi noted that the proposal stood out as it was crafted after extensive consultations with major stakeholders, including the leadership of communities across the state and called for its early passage.
The Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowowo, who represents Ethiope East Constituency, praised the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritising infrastructural expansion in the state and the prosperity of the people.
Akpowowo expressed optimism for accelerated socioeconomic growth in the 2026 fiscal year with the implementation of the proposed budget as presented to Deltans by the Governor.
The Member Representing Bomadi Constituency, Hon Oboro Preyor, Isoko South 11, Ferguson Onwo, Ndokwa West, Charles Emetulu, Warri South 1, Austin Uroye, Ndokwa East, Emeka Osamuta, Oshimili South, Bridget Anyafulu, and Okpe, James Augoye, extolled the visionary leadership of Governor Oborevwori and his respect for the rule of law.
The Lawmakers agreed that the financial document presented to the House met global standards, stressing that swift passage of the appropriation bill would further strengthen democratic gains in the state.
They were also unanimous in their submissions that the 70 % capital expenditure in the proposed estimates was novel as it shows government commitment towards infrastructural revolution as encapsulated in the “Renewed Hope for MORE” agenda.
Other lawmakers took turns to support the proposed estimates, affirming that the fiscal plan aligns with the state’s developmental aspirations and would consolidate ongoing progress across sectors.
The Speaker, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor committed the bill to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriations, chaired by Hon Marilyn Okowa‑ Daramola, with other standing committees serving as sub‑committees.
In his remarks, the Speaker commended members for their dedicated and quality debate and charged the committees to conduct a *thorough, transparent, and speedy review* of the budget proposals, in line with the House’s commitment to good governance.
“As you meet with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), I enjoin you to keep the focus on people-centred governance, accountability and equitable development, ensuring the budget translates into real infrastructure and social gains”, Guwor said.
The Speaker directed the Finance and Appropriations Committee to submit its report by December 9, 2025.
