Oborevwori gives N175bn to drive grassroots development, writes
RAPHAEL TAMUNOTONYE
In a bold move that underscores his commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development across Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has gone beyond the statutory allocations from the federation account to local government councils. He has in addition to whatever comes from the federation account, allocated a whopping N7 billion to each of the 25 local government areas in the 2026 Budget, specifically, to boost rapid development across the state at the local level.
By allocating N7 billion to each of the 25 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the 2026 budget, Oborevwori is empowering grassroots communities to drive their own development agendas. This initiative, totaling a staggering N175 billion, is designed to address critical needs in infrastructure, health, education, and other sectors, ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the nooks and crannies of the state.
According to Mr Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, who made this known while featuring as a guest in a national television, the allocation represents an unprecedented escalation from previous budgets and positions Delta as a model for grassroots empowerment in Nigeria.
At a time when President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration is vigorously advocating for local government financial autonomy, Oborevwori’s approach stands out as a beacon of genuine federalism. In some states, governors are allegedly finding creative ways to circumvent this autonomy, maintaining control over local funds and stifling grassroots initiatives. Reports from various quarters suggest that these maneuvers include joint accounts or indirect deductions that undermine the independence of LGAs. Such practices not only contradict the spirit of the Renewed Hope agenda but also deprive rural populations of the resources needed to tackle local challenges. In stark contrast, Delta State under Oborevwori is not just complying with the push for autonomy but amplifying it. By dedicating substantial state funds directly to LGAs, the administration is fostering financial stability at the local level, enabling councils to plan and execute projects tailored to their unique needs. This empowerment ensures that development is not top-down but community-driven, spreading prosperity to even the most remote areas.
The genesis of this extraordinary allocation can be traced back to the Oborevwori administration’s progressive budgeting strategy. As Aniagwu explained, the journey began in 2024 with an initial N1 billion per LGA, aimed primarily at enhancing rural connectivity. Recognizing the transformative impact of these funds, the governor increased the allocation to N2.1 billion in the 2025 budget. Now, in 2026, the ante has been upped significantly to N7 billion per council. This breakdown includes N3 billion specifically for expanding rural road networks, with an additional N4 billion for interventions in health, education, and other human capital development priorities. When multiplied across the 25 LGAs, this amounts to N175 billion strictly for local-level projects, separate from statewide initiatives. Aniagwu described this as “unprecedented,” noting that no other state in the federation is dedicating such significant resources directly to grassroots development.
This move not only accelerates progress but also instills a sense of ownership among local leaders and residents, who can now address peculiarities in their communities without undue reliance on the state capital.
One of the most visible strides of the Oborevwori administration has been in rural infrastructure, particularly roads. Delta’s rural communities, often characterized by challenging terrains and seasonal flooding, have long suffered from isolation. Poor road networks hinder access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, thus accentuating the circles of poverty. The administration’s focus on rural roads is changing this narrative. With the initial N3 billion per LGA earmarked for road expansion, communities are witnessing the construction and rehabilitation of feeder roads that connect farms to urban centers. These projects are not mere cosmetic fixes; they are strategic investments that boost agricultural productivity, facilitate trade, and stimulate local economies. Aniagwu highlighted how the governor’s assessment of previous allocations led to this escalation, emphasizing the need for greater results. By integrating road development with other sectors, the administration is creating synergies that amplify impact. For instance, improved roads mean faster emergency responses in health crises and easier access to educational institutions, weaving a tapestry of interconnected progress.
Beyond infrastructure, the Oborevwori government has made remarkable advances in healthcare, a sector pivotal to human capital development. The additional N4 billion per LGA complements an already robust statewide allocation of over N16 billion for health. This funding is addressing multifaceted challenges, from infrastructure upgrades to manpower shortages exacerbated by the global migration of medical professionals.
Aniagwu acknowledged the “japa” phenomenon— the exodus of doctors and nurses abroad—but stressed the administration’s proactive measures. Delta has recruited more medical personnel and initiated training programs to bridge the gap and curb capital flight. A flagship initiative is the establishment of a College of Health Technology in Ovrode, Isoko North LGA, dedicated to training nurses and allied health professionals. This institution is poised to produce a steady stream of skilled workers, tailored to the state’s needs.
Moreover, Delta boasts four state-owned universities—the only state in Nigeria to do so—which are actively involved in training doctors and high-level medical personnel. This educational infrastructure ensures a pipeline of expertise that sustains the health sector long-term. Aniagwu proudly noted that Delta leads the nation in contributory health insurance coverage at the subnational level, with over 2.8 million residents enrolled. For just N7,000 annually, enrollees can access services in accredited hospitals without financial ruin. This scheme, which rivals federal enrollment figures, democratizes healthcare, making it affordable and accessible. The administration’s investments extend to physical upgrades: over 400 dispensaries are being renovated statewide, while general and cottage hospitals are receiving facelifts. A new Specialist Hospital in Osubi, Okpe LGA, is under construction to augment tertiary facilities in Asaba, Oghara, and Warri. Equipping these with modern technology, such as MRI scanners previously confined to private sectors, underscores a commitment not just to building structures but to functional excellence, too. As Aniagwu put it, “We are not just building structures; we are equipping them with modern technology and strengthening the manpower needed to run them.”
Education, another cornerstone of human capital development, is receiving equal attention under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. The N4 billion add-on per LGA allows for targeted interventions, such as school renovations, teacher training, and provision of learning materials. Building on the state’s university system, these efforts aim to elevate educational standards at the grassroots. By addressing local peculiarities—whether it’s building classrooms in flood-prone areas or providing scholarships for indigent students—the administration is fostering an educated populace ready to contribute to Delta’s growth. This holistic approach extends to other areas like agriculture, where improved roads and health services indirectly support farmers’ productivity and well-being.
The cumulative effect of these strides is a state on the cusp of inclusive growth. Oborevwori’s administration is not merely allocating funds; it is orchestrating a symphony of development where every LGA plays a vital role. This contrasts sharply with the alleged circumventions in other states, where local autonomy is more of rhetoric than reality. In Delta, financial stability for LGAs translates to tangible dividends: better roads reducing travel times, healthier citizens boosting productivity, and educated youth driving innovation. The Renewed Hope agenda finds a true ally in Oborevwori, who is ensuring that federalism works for the people.
Tamunotonye, a Development Economist and Good Governance Advocate, writes from Asaba, Delta State
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