Delta Assembly Passes N725bn 2024 Appropriation Bill

The Delta State House of Assembly (DSHA) has given its nod to a budget size of N725 billion for the 2024 fiscal year in the state. This approval, exceeding the initial N714 billion proposed by the State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, follows the legislature’s passage of the 2024 appropriation bill during its third reading on the House floor.

The passage of the bill ensued after the presentation of a report by the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, during Thursday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Hon. Emomotimi Guwor.

In her report, Hon. Okowa-Daramola highlighted the committee’s careful consideration of the proposed budget, necessitating a slight upward revision in line with present economic realities.

The approved budget by the lawmakers revealed a noteworthy increase in the proposed capital expenditure from N397.8 billion to N408.3 billion, marking a 2.7% rise over the proposed capital expenditure budget.

Concerning recurrent expenditure, the House sanctioned a budget of N316.6 billion, a marginal increase from the earlier proposed budget of N316.5 billion, representing a 0.21% hike in the proposed recurrent expenditure budget.

“The 2024 budget aligns with the present time and reflects His Excellency’s M.O.R.E agenda. It is indeed a budget of ‘Hope and Optimism.’ Therefore, the finance and appropriation committee submits the amended appropriation bill for consideration by this honourable house,” Okowa-Daramola stated.

The revised figures aim at financing critical sectors in the state, particularly the health sector, works, and urban renewal, among others.

The House, transitioning into the committee on supply chaired by the Speaker, meticulously reviewed the finance and appropriation report clause by clause, incorporating necessary amendments.

Governor Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori had presented a budget proposal of N714 billion for legislative consideration and approval merely two weeks ago.

After the bill’s passage, Speaker Guwor emphasized that this legislative action aligns with global practices, anticipating that its implementation will significantly enhance the well-being of Deltans.

He commended the lawmakers for their dedication and legislative prowess in passing the bill, while also praising Governor Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for presenting the bill before the House.