Delta Approves N4bn Lifeline For 15,000 Small Business Owners

The Delta State Government has approved N4 billion to empower 15,000 indigent residents across the 25 local government areas of the state.

The grant is aimed at supporting small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship and cushioning the effects of economic hardship on vulnerable Deltans.

Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.

He was accompanied by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.

Aniagwu said the scheme will be implemented through the Delta State Social Investment Programme in the coming weeks, with strict eligibility criteria as directed by the Governor.

According to him, priority will be given to indigent persons already running small businesses, those seeking to start micro-enterprises, and vulnerable residents in need of financial support to improve their livelihoods.

He explained that the intervention is designed to help existing businesses stay afloat, provide start-up capital for new entrepreneurs, and enable beneficiaries to meet pressing household needs.

"This is part of efforts to ensure that economic reforms translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Deltans," he said.

The Council also approved compensation for land acquired in Delta Central for agricultural purposes. Aniagwu said the decision aligns with resolutions from recent economic summits on the need to open up land for large-scale farming and attract commercial farm investors.

The move, he noted, will make the state's agricultural land bank more attractive, boost food production, create jobs and expand economic opportunities for local farmers.

In preparation for the 2027 fiscal year, Exco approved the Economic and Fiscal Updates, Fiscal Strategy Paper and Budget Policy Statement to guide budget preparation.

Aniagwu said the documents will outline economic assumptions, revenue projections and policy thrust, adding that while naira stability will aid planning, fluctuations in global crude oil prices could impact federal allocations.

The Council further directed the Ministry of Health to scale up free medical outreaches in riverine communities, following the successful outreach in oil spill-affected areas recently visited by the Governor.

He said residents from neighbouring communities trooped in to benefit from the exercise, prompting the Governor to direct a more regular outreach programme to improve healthcare access in riverine areas.

On workers' welfare, Exco approved the construction of a clubhouse for civil servants at the State Secretariat, Asaba, to serve as a meeting, relaxation and social centre outside work hours.

Aniagwu said the approvals underscore the Oborevwori administration's focus on social investment, agriculture, healthcare and civil service welfare alongside its infrastructure drive.