Delta Govt Approves N4bn Empowerment For 15,000 Indigents

The Delta State Government has approved N4 billion to empower 15,000 indigent residents across the state as part of measures to cushion economic hardship and boost small businesses.

The approval was given at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the meeting.

He was accompanied by the chief press secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.

Aniagwu said the beneficiaries would be drawn from the 25 local government areas and implemented through the Delta State Social Investment Programme in the coming weeks.

According to him, the scheme will target indigent persons already operating small businesses, those seeking to start micro-enterprises, and vulnerable residents who need support to improve their livelihoods.

Advertisement

He said the grant is meant to help existing businesses stay afloat, provide start-up capital for new entrepreneurs and enable beneficiaries to meet pressing needs.

The Commissioner said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that economic reforms translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Deltans.

The EXCO also approved compensation for land acquired in the central senatorial district for agricultural purposes, a decision taken to boost large-scale farming and attract commercial farmers.

Aniagwu said the government is building a land bank to make agricultural land more accessible to investors and local farmers to stimulate production and create jobs.

In preparation for the 2027 fiscal year, the Council approved the Economic and Fiscal Updates, Fiscal Strategy Paper and Budget Policy Statement to guide budget preparation.

He said the documents will provide economic assumptions and revenue projections, noting that naira stability will aid planning despite possible oil price fluctuations.

Advertisement

The Council also directed the Ministry of Health to expand free medical outreach in riverine communities following the success of a recent outreach in oil spill-affected communities visited by the governor.

In addition, EXCO approved the construction of a clubhouse for civil servants at the State Secretariat, Asaba, to provide a place for relaxation and socialisation outside work hours.

Aniagwu said the approvals reflect the administration’s focus on social investment, agriculture, workers’ welfare and human capital development.