By Akpos Oje
Delta State has emerged as one of Nigeria’s top performers in budget implementation, recording a 97.9% execution rate in the first half of 2024. The performance places the state second only to Yobe, which achieved 98.6%, according to new data released by Agora Policy, a leading Nigerian public policy think tank.
The analysis, based on state Budget Implementation Reports and independent fiscal assessments, highlights Delta’s strong governance and prudent fiscal management. The state outperformed several prominent peers, including Rivers (93.4%), Ekiti (87.9%), Lagos (87.0%), Bauchi (86.9%), Osun (86.5%), Edo (83.2%), Kogi (79.9%), and Akwa Ibom (79.1%), securing a firm position among the nation’s top 10 best-performing states.
Agora Policy noted that the rankings go beyond statistics, reflecting the extent to which states are fulfilling their budgetary commitments and delivering on campaign promises. The organization described the performances of Yobe and Delta as “evidence of thoughtful planning backed by consistent execution.”
While Yobe’s spokesman for Digital and Strategic Communications, Yusuf Ali, credited their success to “purpose-driven leadership and a deep culture of financial responsibility,” Delta’s near-perfect score underscores Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s growing reputation for fiscal discipline and accountability.
Analysts believe Delta could overtake Yobe in subsequent reports if it maintains its current momentum—a prospect that adds optimism to the state’s ongoing administrative reforms and infrastructural development drive.
This achievement aligns with earlier declarations by government officials on the state’s financial health. Speaking at a January 24, 2025, press conference in Asaba, Commissioner for Finance, Sir Fidelis Tilije, reaffirmed that the Oborevwori administration has not borrowed a kobo since assuming office on May 29, 2023.
“From inception, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has not contracted any loans or entered into borrowing agreements with banks, financial institutions, or development partners,” Tilije said.
He was joined by Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who praised the governor for embedding transparency and fiscal restraint into governance.
“Governor Oborevwori is proving that financial discipline can go hand-in-hand with development. His leadership is restoring public confidence and driving visible progress in infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” Aniagwu stated.
