Delta Government says it Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) has increased from N84 billion in 2023 to more than N200 billion, reflecting improved revenue systems and economic reforms under Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.
The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, disclosed this in Asaba on Tuesday while briefing the delegation from the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the RMAFC visit was part of the commission’s assessment of Delta State’s Economic Diversification Programmes and Strategies aimed at improving revenue generation and strengthening fiscal sustainability.
Ekedayen, said the state achieved the growth through “expanded tax net, improved tax administration, stronger compliance and efficient revenue collection” without increasing personal income tax.
He akso explained that Delta’s IGR growth represented more than 138 per cent increase, adding that the government focused on strengthening internal revenue sources while protecting residents from additional tax burdens.
He further said that the Oborevwori’s administration was reducing dependence on oil revenue by investing in agriculture, industrialisation, innovation and other sectors capable of creating sustainable economic opportunities.
According to Ekedayen, agriculture remains central to the diversification plan, with government partnerships allowing investors to provide funding and technology while the state provides land for large-scale farming projects.
He said Public-Private Partnerships were supporting the cultivation of important crops, including cassava and oil palm, as Delta seeks to expand production, attract investors and strengthen food security.
In his remarks, Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, said the administration was advancing industrial growth through strategic infrastructure projects designed to improve investment opportunities and create a stronger economic foundation.
Tilije disclosed that the Kwale Industrial Park would soon receive full power supply, while efforts continued with the Federal Government to revive activities at Warri and Forcados ports.
The Team Leader, RMAFC delegation, Mr Victor Eboigbe, said heavy dependence on oil revenue was no longer sustainable.
He lauded Delta Government’s commitment to building a diversified and resilient economy.
Eboigbe said that the commission’s assessment was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to ensure diversification of the state’s economy.
He also commended Gov. Oborevwori for implementing policies aimed at strengthening economic stability and long-term development.
The RMAFC delegation expressed satisfaction with Delta’s transformation initiatives, urging the government to sustain reforms that encourage investment, improve revenue generation and create employment opportunities.
The Federal Commissioner representing Delta in RMAFC, Mr Martins Egwarhevwa, said the visit was part of the commission’s constitutional duty to assess diversification efforts in the state.
Egwarhevwa explained that the exercise was designed to encourage collaboration between the commission and states while promoting responsible fiscal management and stronger economic planning nationwide.
NAN also reports that the increase in the state’s IGR is expected to boost Delta’s ability to fund development projects, support public services and reduce reliance on external financial assistance.
The RMAFC’s three-day assessment visit to Delta which began on Monday is expected to end on Wednesday, July 15
