Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has announced a remarkable boost in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which surged from N83 billion in 2023 to N158 billion in 2024. This growth represents an impressive 90.4 percent increase within a year. The governor also projected that the IGR would further climb to N165 billion in 2025. Notably, this financial progress was achieved without imposing any new taxes or increasing the tax burden on residents, reflecting the administration’s commitment to a pro-people governance approach.
Governor Oborevwori attributed this surge in revenue to several key factors. He highlighted the state’s peaceful atmosphere and a business-friendly environment that encourages investments. In addition, ongoing infrastructure projects across Delta State have played a major role in creating an enabling atmosphere for economic activities. The State Internal Revenue Service was also credited for its professionalism and efficiency in plugging revenue leakages and improving tax collection methods.
The governor revealed that the state’s debt stock had significantly reduced from N465.3 billion at the beginning of his administration to N249.2 billion by December 2024, marking a 46.4 percent drop. This reduction was ascribed to prudent financial management, transparency, and efforts to curb wasteful spending, underscoring the administration’s dedication to restoring the state’s financial health.
In the area of public service, Governor Oborevwori announced the implementation of a new minimum wage of N77,500 for workers in Delta State. This wage surpasses the national minimum wage, signaling the government’s commitment to improving the living standards of its workforce. To address manpower shortages in local government councils, the administration recruited 13,497 new teaching and non-teaching staff. Beyond recruitment, the government invested in capacity building by training over 8,000 public servants and organizing leadership development programs for 450 senior management personnel. These efforts aim to build a robust, efficient, and professional civil service. To further enhance service delivery, permanent secretaries were provided with new vehicles, while promotion interviews were conducted for over 2,193 officers to encourage career growth within the public sector.
Governor Oborevwori’s administration has also embarked on extensive infrastructure development, completing more than 513 projects. These include road constructions, bridges, and drainage systems designed to improve connectivity and access to urban centers and markets across the state. Some of the key projects completed or underway are the Ughelli-Asaba dual carriageway, the first phase of the Emevor-Orogun road, and the Okpanam-Ibusa bypass. The government also focused on rural infrastructure to ensure that underserved communities gain better access to essential services, further promoting balanced regional development.
In the education sector, the Delta State government prioritized the renovation of dilapidated schools and the recruitment of qualified teaching and support staff. The administration also provided necessary learning materials to improve the quality of education. Furthermore, it sponsored accreditation processes for programs in higher educational institutions within the state. Youth empowerment received attention as well, with numerous young people being trained in skills related to technology, agriculture, commerce, and the creative arts. These initiatives are aimed at reducing unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship among the state’s youth.
Governor Oborevwori’s administration has demonstrated a clear focus on sustainable development, public welfare, and financial stability. The upward trend in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue, combined with a significant reduction in debt, signals positive prospects for Delta State’s economic growth and stability.
