Beyond Oil Revenue: Delta Assembly Demands Stronger IGR & Capital Investment In 2027–2029 Plan
By PAULINA NZERUBE
Delta Assembly Adopts 2027–2029 Fiscal Framework, Passes Local Government Amendment Bill
THE Delta State House of Assembly has adopted the recommendations of its Committee on Finance and Appropriation on the 2027–2029 Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The lawmakers also passed the Delta State Local Government Amendment Bill, 2024, in a major legislative development.
Both decisions were reached during Wednesday’s plenary, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. The Chairman of the Finance and Appropriation Committee, Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, presented the committee’s report.
While reviewing the three-year fiscal framework, the committee urged the state government to strengthen economic diversification and reduce its dependence on oil revenue. Instead, it recommended greater investment in non-oil revenue sources, particularly agriculture and tourism, to expand Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
The lawmakers also called for stronger environmental protection measures. Specifically, they recommended regular maintenance of existing flood control facilities and the construction of additional infrastructure to address flooding and erosion across the state.
On public expenditure, the committee advocated greater efficiency in recurrent spending. It also recommended the adoption of scientific revenue forecasting methods to create more financial room for capital development.
Furthermore, the report urged the government to prioritise capital projects in line with the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda. It stressed the need to maintain compliance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) in budget preparation and documentation.
Beyond these measures, the committee emphasised transparent fiscal policies, credible budgeting and the effective use of available resources. According to its recommendations, these measures would support sustainable economic development.
Following the presentation, the Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, moved a motion for the adoption of the report. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, seconded the motion, which members unanimously approved.
Meanwhile, the Assembly passed the Delta State Local Government Amendment Bill, 2024. The legislation seeks to strengthen the administration, structure, composition, financing and functions of Local Government Councils across the state.
To facilitate its passage, lawmakers suspended relevant provisions of the House Standing Orders. This enabled the bill to proceed through its third reading before the Assembly passed it.
Commending members for the development, Speaker Guwor said the amendment would strengthen local government administration and improve the effective functioning of councils in Delta State.
The Assembly subsequently adjourned plenary until Tuesday 10 November 2026.
