The Delta State Executive Council has approved N4 billion to empower 15,000 indigent residents, with each beneficiary expected to receive N250,000 to support existing small businesses, start new enterprises or meet pressing needs.
The beneficiaries will be selected from the state’s 25 local government areas through the Delta State Social Investment Programme, which the government said would begin in the coming weeks.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, announced the decision after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.
He said priority would be given to poor residents already running small businesses, persons seeking start-up capital for micro-enterprises, and vulnerable residents who need financial assistance.
The grant is expected to strengthen beneficiaries’ purchasing power and help small businesses cope with the economic pressure of ongoing reforms.
The council also approved compensation for land acquired in Delta Central Senatorial District for agricultural purposes. Aniagwu said the move followed recommendations from the state’s economic summits and is intended to open land for large-scale farming, attract commercial farmers and create jobs.
For the 2027 fiscal year, the council approved the Economic and Fiscal Updates, Fiscal Strategy Paper and Budget Policy Paper. The documents will guide revenue projections, economic assumptions and the overall direction of the next state budget.
The Executive Council also directed the Ministry of Health to explore regular free medical outreach services for riverine communities, following the positive response to a recent outreach in oil-spill-affected areas.
In addition, the council approved the construction of a clubhouse at the State Secretariat in Asaba to provide civil servants with a space to relax and socialise outside work hours. Aniagwu said the approvals reflect the Oborevwori administration’s focus on social investment, agriculture, healthcare access, workers’ welfare and human development.