Mr. Speaker
Honourable Members
INTRODUCTION
I am pleased to present the 2025 Budget proposals of the Delta State Government to this hallowed Chamber. I present this budget in an economic environment that is still as unpredictable as it was when we came into office on May 29, 2023. Although not peculiar to our state, the challenges we face as an administration are enormous – turbulent economy, soaring inflation resulting in high cost of governance, structural youth unemployment or underemployment, infrastructural deficit vis-a-vis our developmental aspirations, and persistent insecurity.
2. As an administration, our priority remains to ensure microeconomic stability through continuing fiscal discipline and judicious allocation of resources, expand economic activities, create opportunities for our teeming youth population, bolster public service efficiency for optimum service delivery, and lend support to the poor and vulnerable who have been hugely impacted by the ongoing fiscal and monetary reforms of the Federal Government.
3. It is, therefore, imperative, that those of us entrusted with the burden of leadership rededicate ourselves to the public cause and the strategic imperatives of the MORE agenda, while maintaining the highest levels of discipline, focus, transparency, and accountability.
OBJECTIVES
4. Our goals in the 2025 fiscal year remain the same as in the outgoing year.
· Complete on-going projects and add new ones in all the critical areas of need;
· Expand our revenue base by sustaining the on-going reforms and upward trajectory of Internally Generated Revenues (IGR).
· Enhance transparency and accountability in our public expenditure management.
· Implement effective cost control measures and efficient cash management practices to ensure optimal liquidity position.
· Expand the capacity of our health institutions to cater to the health needs of more Deltans.
· Strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to create employment and grow our GDP through the provision of capital grants.
· Provide conducive environment for Investors and Development Partners to operate in the state by repositioning the Delta State Investment and Development Agency (DIDA).
· Continue the empowerment of the vulnerable and less privileged through our social investment programmes.
· Continue the monitoring and evaluation of government projects and programmes to ensure value for every naira spent.
· Domesticate electricity sector reforms as contained in the Federal Government Electricity Act of 2023.
· Enhance food production and food security through the establishment of Special Agric Processing Zone (SAPZ).
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
5. Before I present the details of the 2025 Budget proposals, it is necessary to review our performance in the last one year.
STAYING AFLOAT IN A TURBULENT ECONOMY
6. Mr. Speaker, we have managed to strengthen our financial management systems, by ensuring better allocation and utilization of resources, through the bottom-up budgeting process and the prioritization of the needs of our people in line with global best practices. We have ensured that we keep our expenditure within revenue limits, as all our revenue sources are organic. Consequently, we have been able to meet our expenses and maintain good financial liquidity without recourse to borrowing, while ensuring that the government gets full value for every naira spent through strict and regular monitoring.
7. Mr Speaker, I am happy to inform this honourable House, that because of our resourcefulness in managing our finances, we have substantially reduced our debt stock from N465.3billion at the inception of this administration to N303.4billion as at 30th June 2024: a reduction of N160.9billion, representing approximately 34.6% of our debt stock. This feat was largely possible because of fiscal discipline and the enthronement of more efficient cost control measures. We have cost control measures across board, resulting in substantial cash savings, which we are judiciously deploying to funding the various infrastructural projects across the state.
INFRASTRUCTURAL RENEWAL FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH
8. Since we came on board, this administration has prioritized the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of roads because of their strategic importance in engendering economic growth, attracting private investment, improving connectivity, boosting trade and commerce, and enhancing the overall living standards of Deltans. As we all know, investment in critical infrastructure also helps in the fight against poverty. Those who benefit most from infrastructural development are the poor through employment and increased demand for the services of the informal sector.
9. Mr. Speaker, it is common knowledge that the twin cities of Warri and Effurun, and environs, have long suffered from infrastructural decay and frequent flooding. Improving the landscape of this part of the state was one of my campaign promises. The construction of the N78 billion Effurun/Warri Flyovers and Interchange is in full swing and on course to be delivered on schedule. The first phase of the Warri Storm Water Drainage has been completed; the second phase is at 85% completion while work on the third phase has also commenced.
10. We have also undertaken the construction of strategic roads in Warri, including the completed Upper and Lower Erejuwa Road. Other completed roads are Gabriel Mabiaku Road, and Esisi Road to Estate Roundabout, with a spur to Nana College connecting Ajamimogha. Work on the protracted Trans- Warri Road and allied bridges would be completed in two years. I have directed the contractor to expedite work on the project, and assured of continuous funding to ensure prompt completion of the project within two years.
11. The Isoko area is not left out, Mr. Speaker. I have inaugurated the Emevor-Orogun Road Phase 1, while approval has been granted for the construction of Emevor-Ivrogbo-Orogun Road Phase 2. Meanwhile, the construction Otekpo Road in Ellu, Isoko North, is also ongoing. Other ongoing projects in this axis include the completion of Enwhe-Olomoro Road; Enhwe Internal Roads; and construction of Olomoro-Igbide Road. There is also the strategic Ellu/Ovrode/Ofagbe/Ori-Irri/Okpe-Isoko/Uro-Irri/Ada-Irri Road in Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas, which is ongoing.
12. Other projects in the Delta South Senatorial district include the completed remedial works for the failed approach to the bridge at Bedesegha along Ohoror-Bomadi Road in Bomadi Local Government Area. The Executive Council also approved the reconstruction of Ohoror-Bomadi Road; Ekeye-Ovedhe Close in Okumagba Layout, Warri, internal roads and drains in Kurutie, Obitobon-Elolo-Ajaokurogbo-Orubu Road Phase 2, Ogidigben; Kurutie internal roads Phase 2; Rehabilitation of Odimodi, Ogulagha road in Burutu Local Government Area and the construction of rigid concrete pavement of Stadium Road, Ugborodo in Warri South-West Local Government Area.
13. In Sapele, over 16 kilometres of road construction with drainages are in progress to revitalize the town. These projects include; the reconstruction of Major Bowen Road from Okpe Road to New Ogorode Road, the construction of Benin Road from Green Egbedi Road at Olympia to Abeke Road, and the construction of Uko Road from Benin Road through Otuedor Road to Ugberikoko Road. Other projects include; the construction of Obule School Road from Orodje Grammar School to Okirigbagha by the Okirigwe Police Station, Alegbe Road from Abeke Road to New Ogorode Road, and the extension of Hausa Road from Ogodo Road to Commercial Avenue, among others.
14. In Ughelli, approval for the construction of several new roads to alleviate traffic congestion at the popular Otovwodo junction has been granted. These projects include the construction of Uduere Road, Okogbe Road, Oyakemeagbegha Street, Ohre Street, and Edo Road. Additionally, the Okan Junction to Agbarho road received attention to ease traffic around the PTI Junction, Effurun Roundabout, and DSC Roundabout, with the ongoing flyover construction project.
15. In Okpe, the Ohorhe-Adagbrasa-Ugolo Road has been completed. The dualization of Ezesi Road in Orerokpe, and the construction of Orerokpe-Okulohor-Oviri Road, and Ugolo Road are ongoing.
16. Mr. Speaker, we are also working in the Delta North Senatorial District. Isheagu-Ewulu Road and Bridge and the Okpanam-Ibusa bypass remain a testament to our determination to building infrastructure of vital interest and consequence. Also, contract for the construction of gully erosion at the bypass has been awarded and work has commenced. Similarly, the multi billion Naira Kwale-Beneku bridge linking Ndokwa West and Ndokwa East LGAs has continued with accelerated pace since we assumed office, such that it is about 95 percent completed to the delight and appreciation of the adjoining communities who will no longer commute by canoe, boat, or pontoon.
17. Additionally, we have embarked on the following projects;
– Construction of Isele Azagba/Otulu Road, Aniocha North LGA,
– Construction of Idumu Etiti Street with a spur to Market Road, Owerre Olubor, Ika North East LGA,
– Construction of Aziken Avenue, DDPA Low-Cost Housing Estate, Boji Boji, Agbor, Ika South LGA,
– Construction of Okoye Street and Chief Iyke Street in Onu Quarters, Aboh, Ndokwa East LGA,
– Construction of Utagba-Uno/Ndemili Road (Phase 1), Ndokwa West LGA,
– Construction of Eweshi/Utagba-Uno Road, Ndokwa West LGA,
– Construction of Access and Internal Road at Headquarters of 63 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ibusa, Oshimili North LGA,
– Construction of Ichie James Obodoechi Avenue/Chikozie Okafor Road, Oshimili South LGA,
– Construction of Ofuegbe Street, Amai, Ukwuani LGA, among others.
18. As you are aware, we inaugurated a chain of connecting roads in Asaba, as part of activities marking our 100 days in office. The roads, 29 in all, with drainages on both sides, though started by my predecessor, were completed, including the strategic road leading to the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.
19. You would recall that the sum of one billion naira was allocated to each of the 25 local government areas in the 2024 Appropriation Bill for road infrastructure. As a result, several construction and reconstruction of road projects are ongoing in many of the local government areas.
RIVERINE COMMUNITIES
20. In keeping with my campaign promise to our kinsmen in the riverine communities and my administration’s determination to ensure the even development of all parts of the state, I have created a Directorate of Riverine Infrastructure to give the communities the desired attention.
21. We have inaugurated the Model Secondary School, Ogulagha, built by DESOPADEC in Burutu Local Government Area, and commissioned a Faculty Building and Lecture Halls at the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, in Warri South-West Local Government Area. Both projects are in line with the “Meaningful Development” component of the MORE Agenda of my administration.
22. Mr. Speaker, we will not only ensure that children in the riverine communities are given the benefit of quality secondary education, but we will also provide an excellent platform to produce graduates with the requisite skill sets, knowledge, and capacity to function in the 21st century marketplace. We have approved the construction of a model secondary school in Oporoza, the construction of a road to the Maritime University’s permanent site, both in Warri South-West LGA, and the rehabilitation/reconstruction of the 12.1-kilometre Odimodi-Okuntu-Ogulagha Road, in Burutu LGA. Work on the construction of Ogbuougbudu Community Road in Warri North LGA, internal roads in Kiagbodo, Burutu LGA, Uduophori Secondary School Road in Patani LGA, are expected to commence soon. We will do more in the coming fiscal year.
THE PEOPLE FIRST
23. As an administration that prioritises the welfare of its citizens, we commenced the payment of the new minimum wage in October this year. This is expected to motivate the workforce, boost morale, and improve productivity. We have enhanced our social investment programmes that cater to vulnerable groups – widows and people living with disabilities – through grants, training, and business networking. A total of two hundred and three thousand, two hundred and four (203,204) persons have so far been empowered under the various delivery platforms of the Delta Action (for) Resilience and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) programme. Out of this figure, one hundred and sixty-six thousand, eight hundred and fifty-one persons (166,851) were enrolled in just eighteen months of this administration, representing an increase of approximately four hundred and fifty-nine percent (459%).
24. We also launched the MORE Grant Scheme for petty traders, artisans, and female entrepreneurs to ensure that other segments of the populace are not left out in our interventionist measures. So far, 5,426 persons have received cash grant support.
25. This year, we empowered over 6,000 farmers with agricultural inputs to boost agricultural production in the state. We have also distributed fertilizers to farmers across the 25 Local Government Areas of the state in support of our drive to ensure food security for our people. This is in addition to the expanded focus on Agriculture under the Result Area 2 – FADAMA (Food Security) of the D-CARES scheme as well as the release of One Billion Naira counterpart funding for the Africa Union Development Agency, New Partnership for African Development (AUDA NEPAD), to empower 2,000 farmers for food production, livestock, and aquaculture.
25. In recognition of the financial squeeze faced by small businesses occasioned by the ongoing economic reforms of the Federal Government, we recently launched the MORE Biz-Up programme targeted at small business owners across the 270 wards in the state. In the next few weeks, the selection process will be concluded to select 2,000 persons that qualify for business support packages and grants from the government.
26. It is our earnest expectation to expand the programme to include more beneficiaries because Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises remain the backbone of any prosperous society. They are globally recognised as engines of inclusive economic growth, wealth creation, and employment generation. We shall step up efforts to support and promote their growth to drive the economic diversification of the state and enhance its business competitiveness.
27. The students are not left out in our bid to ensure that every segment of the population feels the impact of government. Since the inception of this administration, we have paid bursary to 30,000 students of Delta State origin in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. In 2023, we paid six hundred and seventy-four million, four hundred and eighty thousand, four hundred- and fifty-one-naira, fifty-four kobo (N674,480,451.54), while the approved amount for 2024 is seven hundred and thirteen million naira (N713,000,000.00). We also rendered financial assistance to Delta indigenes in the seven Nigerian law schools, amounting to forty-three million, six hundred and ninety thousand, two hundred- and twenty-one-naira, eighty-six kobo (N43,690,221.86). I am glad to report that we also paid children of deceased civil servants and physically challenged students the sum of twenty-nine million, two hundred and six thousand naira, three hundred- and eighty-nine-naira, seventy-five kobo (N29,206,389.75).
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION
28. In line with our belief in a free, fair, and credible democratic process, the local government elections were held across the 25 local government areas on July 13, 2024. The outcome of that election was a strong vote of confidence in our administration. Our party, the PDP, won all the local government chairmanship seats, a huge endorsement of the administration’s policies and programmes.
29. As I said during the inauguration of the Local Government Chairmen and their deputies, “my profound appreciation goes to the good people of Delta State who defied the heavy downpour to come out and vote. Our people deserve commendation for their commitment and steadfast belief in the electoral process…. It is also gratifying to note that there was not a single reported incident of violence during the election. For that I am grateful to God, and the security agencies for their vigilance, professionalism, and dedication to duty.”
30. It goes without saying that the Local Government Councils in the state will continue to operate without interference from the state government. The Supreme Court ruling that validated the autonomy of the local government councils was well received by this administration because as you know, this noble House was in the forefront of advocacy for the autonomy of the legislature, judiciary, and local government. So, we areglad that the issue has been laid to rest by the Supreme Court.
RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFORMATION
31. Our rural communities need access to quality roads, potable water, functional schools, better healthcare, and better sanitation and environment. The State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the agency for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are critical vehicles to actualise these goals. I am happy to report that we have paid our share of the 2024 counterpart funding for SUBEB, which amounted to three billion, five hundred and fifty-four million, six hundred and forty-two thousand, five hundred- and eighty-four-naira, forty-six kobo (N3,554,642,548.46) only. We have also paid six hundred million naira (N600,000,000.00) to the SDG office. Although the Federal Government is yet to fulfill its side of the bargain, I have directed the SDG office to commence work with the money disbursed from the state government.
PENSION ARREARS
32. This administration has been consistent in remitting the inherited N500m monthly disbursement for the payment of pension benefits to retirees (accrued rights and harmonization) with a view to gradually clearing the backlog, and N400m which is released as employer contribution (i.e. 10%). The sum of fifteen billion, nine hundred million naira (N15,900,000,000.00) only, has been released so far as pension benefits by the government for the period under review. With the sustained payment trajectory of pension benefits and clearing of backlog, I assure this honourable House that the issue of delay in payments would soon be a thing of the past.
SECURITY
33. No doubt, the biggest security challenge we faced this year was the Okuama crisis that resulted in the death of four officers and thirteen soldiers of the Nigerian Army, as well as the sacking of community in Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area. It was a very testy period for this administration but we were able to overcome the situation through dialogue, tact, patience, and wisdom. I am glad that today the people of Okuama are aware that the rebuilding process has begun. Mr Speaker, please permit me to pay tribute to the departed Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, who was a key player in the resolution of the crisis. In my engagements with him, he was very cooperative, understanding, and mature in the handling of the situation.
34. Admittedly, there are other security challenges. However, I want to assure all Deltans and residents in the state that we are on top of the situation. The security agencies are responding appropriately to these threats to our collective security and safety. Towards this end, I have approved the procurement of fifty-five utility vehicles to boost our security operations.
35. As I said during the Independence Anniversary celebration on October 1, this administration will not spare any effort to ensure that crime is reduced to the barest minimum by strengthening our partnership with the security agencies. Of equal significance is the need to actively enlist the participation of the private sector and all the relevant stakeholders in our communities in the fight against violent crimes because security is a shared responsibility. Towards this end, plans are afoot to revitalize the Delta State Security Trust Fund with a fund-raising event to be held in the shortest possible time. I earnestly solicit the full and unreserved cooperation of all of us to make our dream of a safe and secure Delta State a reality.
36. Meanwhile, Deltans and all residents in the state must recognise and embrace peace and unity as a way of life. It bears restating here that no meaningful development can take place in the absence of peace. As a people, we have more in common than what separates us. So, I urge us to rededicate ourselves to strengthening the ties that bind us together. Together, we can ADVANCE Delta through our MORE agenda.
THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE 2025 BUDGET
37. I will now turn my attention to the 2025 budget proposals. I begin by outlining the philosophy undergirding our proposals. Mr. Speaker, the 2025 budget has been developed against a backdrop of a tamed global economic outlook as the world economy growth stood at 3.2% in 2023 and is projected to continue at the same pace in 2024 and 2025. The outlook reflects economic recovery in the Euro area and the United Kingdom, robust activity in the United States of America and in many emerging markets and developing economies.
38. At the domestic level, the federal government is currently pursuing bold reforms to reestablish macroeconomic conditions for stability and growth. The PMS subsidy has been substantially eliminated, and the exchange rate has been unified and allowed to be market-reflective, thereby eliminating the parallel market premium, while generating large fiscal and economic benefits. It is my sincere hope that though it may be tough now, when these reforms fully mature, Nigeria would be better for it.
39. As we look to the future, our focus shifts to diversifying our revenue streams. We recognize the volatility of oil markets and the need to explore alternative sources of revenue. To this end, we are making strategic efforts to improve our non-oil revenue by tapping into the vast potential of the green economy. This innovative collaboration will unlock new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development. The green economy initiative offers a promising frontier for our state’s prosperity, and we are committed to harnessing its full potentials.
40. Mr. Speaker, it is in this context that we have chosen the theme for this year’s budget as: “BUDGET OF FISCAL CONSOLIDATION”.
OPEN GOVERNANCE
41. As a member of the Open Government Partnership, Delta State is committed to implementing reforms that promote inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and citizens participation. This we are demonstrating in many fronts through our transparent public procurement practices and the citizens engagement in the budget process as enshrined in the OGP State Action Plan (2023 -2025).
42. In putting together the 2025 budget, we accorded Deltans an opportunity to not only share their views, but to also participate in the budget compilation, with a view to proffering grassroots solutions to the economic challenges facing us as a people. Today, Mr. Speaker, I assure Deltans that we have listened to their concerns and have as much as possible incorporated their suggestions to address our collective challenges through this budget.
FOCUS OF THE 2025 BUDGET
43. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Members, it is my hope and fervent belief that the proposed 2025 Budget is a correct reflection of our sincere and frank assessment of the amount the state can generate on its own, in addition to what it is projected to receive from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and other sundry sources. Given the earlier indices espoused, this Draft Budget is higher than that of 2024 based on credible and realistic assumptions of the state’s actual revenue cash inflows and the current economic realities.
44. The 2025 budget contains several initiatives planned to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on our people and all the attendant economic challenges it has brought upon us. These include deliberate provisions to strengthen our social protection interventions and safety nets, basic rural infrastructure, agriculture and food security, agro value chain, and MSMEs.
45. The 2025 Budget focuses on continued provision of physical infrastructure, human capital development, job creation, wealth creation, and poverty reduction in our dear state. The state government intends to achieve these through prudent management of our resources and prioritizing expenditures on health, education, agriculture, water resources, environment, housing as well as women and youth empowerment programmes.
46. I will now proceed to give a brief highlight of the performance of the 2024 Budget.
REVIEW OF 2024 BUDGET PERFORMANCE
47. You would recall that the approved amount of the 2024 Budget is seven hundred and twenty-four billion, nine hundred and seventy-nine million, three hundred and thirteen thousand, eight hundred- and sixty-seven-naira (N724,979,313,867) only.
48. This comprised three hundred and sixteen billion, six hundred and twenty-four million, four hundred and sixty-two thousand, seven hundred and eleven naira (N316,624,462,711) only for recurrent expenditure, and four hundred and eight billion, three hundred and fifty-four million, eight hundred and fifty-one thousand, one hundred and fifty-six naira (N408,354,851,156) only for capital expenditure.
49. The breakdown is as follows:
EXPENDITURE
Recurrent Expenditure 316,624,462,711 44.32%
Capital Expenditure 408,354,851,156 57.16%
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 724,979,313,867 100%
The main sources of revenue for the 2024 budget include:
(i) Internally Generated Revenue N110,304,108,619
(ii) Statutory Allocation Including Mineral Revenue Derivation and Excess Crude N507,958,684,190
(iii) Value Added Tax N45,763,396,566
(IV)Other Capital Receipts/ Miscellaneous N50,388,124,492
REVENUE PERFORMANCE
50. The state received the sum of eight hundred and nineteen billion, six hundred and eighty-eight million, forty-three thousand, eight hundred- and thirty-one-naira, ninety-seven kobo only (N819,688,043,831.97bn), during the first nine months of the year as against a proportionate revenue of N529.82bn for the same period. This represents 154.7% performance. Out of this amount, the sum of N97.0bn was generated as IGR against a proportionate figure of N73.5bn for the same period, representing 131% performance. The improvement in revenue generated is attributable to improved public engagement, expanded tax payers base, and good enforcement measures. It is our resolve to continue to create a conducive atmosphere for improvement in our IGR collections.
51. Value Added Tax remittances to the state between January and September 2024 was N88.8bn as against a proportionate sum of N53.1bn for the same period, representing 166% performance.
RECURRENT EXPENDITURE PERFORMANCE
52. Our expenditure profile for January to September 2024 shows that a total sum of N178.5bn was spent as against a proportionate approved sum of N211.1bn, representing a budget performance of 84.5%. The increase in expenditure is largely attributable to the current high inflation rate estimated at over 32% per annum and the high exchange rate of the naira against the major currencies of the world. The combined effect of both significantly weakened our purchasing power and the attendant consequences of which is increased overheads and running costs.
CAPITAL BUDGET EXPENDITURE PERFORMANCE
53. The sum of N408.3bn was appropriated. However, during the period under review, the sum of N237bn was spent, against a proportionate amount of N275.7bn, representing a budget performance of 86%.
2025 BUDGET PROPOSALS
54. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I present to you a budget proposal of nine hundred and thirty-six billion, seventy-eight million, eight hundred and eighteen thousand, seven hundred and nineteen naira (N936,078,818,719) only to execute projects and programmes of government in 2025. This amount is made up of three hundred and forty-eight billion, seven hundred and seventeen million, seven hundred and fifty-eight thousand, six hundred and thirty-five naira (N348,717,758,635) only as recurrent expenditure or 37.25%, and a capital expenditure of five hundred and eighty-seven billion, three hundred and sixty-one million, sixty thousand, and eighty-four naira (N587,361,060,084) only or 62.75%.
55. The 2025 budget is N211bn more than the 2024 approved sum of N725bn, indicating an increase of 29%. The increase was largely because of the realignment of the exchange rate which resulted in higher FAAC allocations and associated revenues. This is in addition to a corresponding improvement in our Internally Generated Revenues in the year.
THE RECURRENT EXPENDITURE
56. A total sum of three hundred and forty-eight billion, seven hundred and seventeen million, seven hundred and fifty-eight thousand, six hundred and thirty-five naira (N348,717,758,635) only, is being proposed to meet government’s financial obligations on salaries, wages and the day-to-day running of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government in the 2025 fiscal year.
Details of recurrent expenditure proposals are as follows:
Personnel cost N170,000,000,000
Overhead cost N117,280,056,705
Consolidated Revenue Charges
Social Contribution N9,806,041,013
Social Benefit N5,940,157,448
Loan Repayment N35,691,503,469
Grants and Contribution N10,000,000,000
THE CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
57. The sum of five hundred and eighty-seven billion, three hundred and sixty-one million, sixty thousand, and eighty-four naira (N587,361,060,084.00) only representing 62.75% of the total budget, is being earmarked. This will be utilized in funding infrastructural development, acquisition of assets, and investments in human capital.
The summary of sectoral allocations of the capital expenditure is as follows:
Administrative Sector N27,029,332,359
Economic Sector N327,267,059,771
Law and Justice Sector N6,420,000,000
Regional Sector N74,000,000,000
Social Sector N111,760,000,000
Contingency N40,884,667,954
58. The increase in allocation to capital expenditure over the 2024 appropriation, once again underscores our commitment to channel more resources to the growth and productive sectors of our economy.
HIGHLIGHTS OF PRIORITY SECTORS
Agriculture
59. Agriculture is the backbone of the livelihood of our rural population. This administration reaffirms its commitment to boosting food production, leveraging our rich vast arable and fertile land. We recognize agriculture as the driver of our economic growth, food security, and job creation. We shall, therefore, prioritize investments in agriculture and its entire value chain and vigorously pursue the actualization of the Special Agricultural Processing Zone (SAPZ) under the guidance of and partnership with the African Development Bank.
60. Our strategic areas of focus include scaling up support to farmers through improved access to land, quality inputs and extension services, focus on key crops such as cassava, rice, potato, oil palm, and vegetables. This administration will continue to promote private sector investment in large scale farming and agro-processing.
61. The sum of N7billion is being proposed to fund these activities in the 2025 budget.
Health
62. As we strive to build a prosperous Delta State, we recognise the critical importance of investing in the health sector- a cornerstone of human capital development. A healthy population is the foundation upon which economic growth, social stability, and individual wellbeing are built.
63. The cornerstone of our efforts lies in the continuous upgrading of health infrastructure in the state. In this regard, work is on-going for the rehabilitation and upgrade of primary and tertiary health institutions across the state. The sum of N30.55bn is earmarked for this. Some of the projects are as follows: –
– the Construction of Primary Healthcare (PHC) Centre, Okuama in Ughelli South L.G.A;
– Completion of Maternal & Child Care Centre, Ekpan in Uvwie L.G.A;
– Construction of Trauma Centre at Agbor in Ika South L.G.A;
– Construction of 500-seater Capacity Auditorium at the School of Health Technology, Ofuoma, Ughelli North L.G.A;
– Construction of Delta State Drug Rehabilitation Centre at the General Hospital, Kwale in Ndokwa West L.G.A;
– External Works Development for College of Health Sciences (Oghara) at Delta State University, Abraka in Ethiope West L.G.A;
– Construction of 500-seater Auditorium for College of Health Sciences (Oghara), Delta State University, Abraka;
– Remodelling of the uncompleted library building of the Basic Clinical Sciences’ Building of the College of Health Sciences (Oghara) in Ethiope West L.G.A;
– Renovation/Rehabilitation of facilities at the General Hospital, Akwukwu-Igbo in Oshimili North L.G.A. (Part A);
– Rehabilitation of the General Hospital in Forcados, Burutu L.G.A; and
– Renovation of Main Building, Staff Quarters, Mortuary Block, Fencing and landscaping of the Premises of the Igbide Hospital, Igbide in Isoko South L.G.A.
64. In furtherance of the numerous initiatives already instituted in our commitment to achieve a robust and efficient health sector, this administration has approved the establishment of a College of Medical Sciences at the Delta State University of Science and Technology (DSUST) in Ozoro, a development which will not only enhance medical education in the State, but will also strengthen healthcare delivery and provide more opportunities for students wishing to pursue a career in the medical profession.
Water
65. As we strive to build a more prosperous and healthy society, access to clean water remains fundamental and a cornerstone of our development agenda. We are aware that despite our best efforts over the years, our state still faces significant challenges in providing universal access to safe and potable water. Many communities continue to rely on inadequate and unhygienic water sources, exposing them to water-borne diseases and economic hardship.
66. Consequently, I have approved the creation of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Departments for the 25 Local Government Areas of the state. The Bill is being prepared by the Ministry of justice for transmission to this House for legislative action.
67. We will strengthen the regulatory framework governing the water sector, ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective management of water resources.
68. To support these initiatives, we are proposing the sum of N11.03bn.
Education
69. This administration understands the invaluable role education plays in the life of any society. Investment in education is vital for human and economic development. Changes in technology, labour market patterns, and general global environment, all require appropriate policy responses.
70. Since assuming office, we have demonstrated our commitment to developing the sector to meet today’s needs. Our vision is to give all children of school age equal access to qualitative and functional education across board. To underscore this commitment, the state government owns and funds four universities, three polytechnics, two colleges of education, five schools of nursing, two colleges of health technology, 489 secondary schools, and 1,148 primary schools.
71. We are not only upgrading the facilities in these universities; we are also establishing new campuses and faculties to absorb increased enrolment as well as provide conducive learning environment for our teeming student population. Clearly, Delta is now a major education hub in the country.
72. The sum of N67.42 bn is earmarked for the education sector in the 2025 fiscal year.
Roads
73. Mr. Speaker, in the light of the far-reaching implications of road infrastructure for our state’s growth and the significant investment it demands from our capital budget in 2025, we have created a budget line for each of the 25 local government areas in the state. This is to ensure that no local government is omitted. In 2025, we intend to consolidate on our achievements in road infrastructure. Towards this end, substantial budgetary provisions have been made for the completion of ongoing road projects and the award of new critical ones.
74. For this purpose, the sum of N230 billion has been earmarked for road infrastructure in the budget.
PROTECTION AND RESTORATION OF OUR SEAWEED AND MANGROVE FORESTS
75. In alignment with Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the objectives laid out in the Delta State Action Plan 2023-2025 under the Open Government Partnership (OGP) for Environmental Sustainability and economic diversification, the Delta State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Serendib Capital Limited and EightVersa Limited, both UK-based firms. This agreement aims to conserve, protect, and promote the reforestation of over 270 hectares of mangroves and seagrass within Delta State’s vast ecosystem and wetlands, known as the Blue Carbon Partnership.
76. This initiative, now registered with Verra, one of the world’s largest carbon registries, underscores the credibility and importance of the ongoing efforts.
