The Delta State Government has proposed a budget of ₦936 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, raising concerns about the state’s increasing debt burden in the face of economic challenges, particularly the fluctuating exchange rate.
The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Sunny Ekedenyen, revealed this on Tuesday during the budget defence session held in Asaba, the state capital.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ekedenyen acknowledged the difficult economic conditions confronting the state and urged citizens to adjust to the new financial realities.
“This year’s budget defence will be more interactive compared to last year,” Ekedenyen stated, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda.
He added, “Whatever is agreed upon during these sessions will be forwarded for implementation.”
The commissioner further noted that the government would adopt a strict and realistic approach in the budget process to ensure alignment with the governor’s vision.
Addressing the broader economic situation, Ekedenyen highlighted the twin challenges facing the state: “We are experiencing a double-edged sword of exchange rate fluctuations and subsidy removal, making it a challenging period for the state.”
Ekedenyen also disclosed that Delta’s revenue-to-debt ratio stood at 97% over the past year, meaning that almost all the state’s earnings were used to service its debt obligations.
He explained that the 2025 budget proposal was based on actual revenue receipts from June 2024 to date, reflecting the financial limitations confronting the state.
The budget defence continues as officials review proposals to ensure they are in line with the state’s fiscal goals.
