Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said the state government is proposing a budget of over ₦1 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to consolidate the socio-economic and infrastructural development drive of his administration.

Governor Oborevwori made this known on Thursday during the state government’s citizens’ engagement on the preparation of the 2026 budget, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Represented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, the Governor explained that 67 per cent of the budget estimate would be allocated to capital expenditure, while 33 per cent would go to recurrent expenditure.

He said the projected distribution was designed to channel more resources into infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other developmental projects, while also sustaining obligations such as workers’ salaries and the running costs of governance.

Emphasising that the capital focus underscored his administration’s priority on growth and development, Governor Oborevwori reiterated his commitment to accountability, transparency, and prudent management of public resources.

“This gathering is not only a moment for reflection, but also a platform to share the progress of our administration, reaffirm our commitment to transparency, and present our vision for the future.

“Over the past two years, this administration has worked tirelessly to ensure fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in governance.

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“We have put in place stringent financial control measures, reduced waste, and ensured that every kobo spent by government delivers value to our people.

“Through prudent financial management, our public debt profile has been reduced significantly, creating room for more sustainable growth and development. One of the key achievements of this administration is in revenue generation.

“Without imposing additional taxes or creating undue burdens on citizens, we have expanded our revenue base by improving compliance, blocking leakages, and widening the tax net.

“Internally Generated Revenue has grown consistently, ensuring that government can fund critical projects without over-reliance on federal allocations. This fiscal responsibility has translated into tangible development across the state.”

On agriculture and private sector investment, Ekedayen disclosed that initiatives were underway to develop carbon markets, expand agricultural opportunities, and provide land to encourage private investment.

Reviewing the performance of the 2025 budget, he said the state had performed creditably, achieving 69 per cent implementation of the capital budget and 86 per cent of the recurrent budget.

“We are hopeful and confident that the trend will continue until the end of the year as more payments are being processed and more deliveries are being taken,” he stated.

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Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the College of Commissioners, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, thanked Deltans for their sustained support and partnership with the state government.

He stressed that the administration’s success was tied to citizens’ contributions, feedback, and trust, assuring that transparency and accountability would remain central in project execution.

“This is why mechanisms such as public monitoring and feedback channels have been established to ensure that projects are delivered to standard,” Aniagwu added.

Representatives of civil society organisations, community leaders, and professional bodies, including Mr. Rex Anighoro, Prince Igwe, and Mr. Voke Ighorodje, commended the Oborevwori’s administration for its people-oriented policies and programmes.

They noted that the engagement was a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to transparency and participatory governance, stressing that by involving stakeholders in the budget process, policies and projects would continue to reflect the true needs of the people.

In Nigeria, severe thunderstorms have been forecasted, raising concerns among residents, particularly after heavy rainfall recently forced many individuals out of their homes in Lagos and other regions.

As fresh anxieties arise about another impending downpour and the possibility of significant flooding, authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Click link to continue reading.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the official government body tasked with delivering vital meteorological information and forecasts, has released an advisement for Thursday, September 25.

The agency warns of thunderstorms and rainfall that may affect various parts of the country, underscoring the need for preparedness among the population.

NiMet plays a crucial role in supporting socio-economic activities through its weather data and forecasts while also advising on climate policy to safeguard lives and property in the face of challenging weather conditions.

NiMet forecasts rains, thunderstorms

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In its outlook released on Wednesday, September 24, obtained by Legit.ng, the agency predicted isolated thunderstorms with light rains over parts of Taraba, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa states on Thursday morning, September 21

For the afternoon and evening weather, it projected isolated thunderstorms with moderate rains over parts of Jigawa, Borno, Yobe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Adamawa, and Taraba states. ‎

For the central Nigerian states, NiMet forecast cloudy atmosphere with intervals of sunshine.

It said: “Chances of isolated thunderstorms with light rains over parts of Niger, Kwara, the federal capital territory (FCT), and Nasarawa states.”

It added that isolated thunderstorms with moderate rains are anticipated over parts of Benue, Plateau, Niger, Kwara, and Kogi states may be experienced in the evening.

‎In the south, “cloudy skies with prospects of light rains over parts of Cross River state” are projected on Thursday morning, September 25.

Isolated thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over most parts of the southern region in the afternoon and evening. ‎‎

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NiMet stated that the predicted thunderstorms may cause temporary disruption of outdoor activities, advising motorists to drive cautiously during rainfall due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.

It also counselled residents in flood-prone areas to take precautionary measures.

The states that may experience isolated thunderstorms and rains are listed below:

1. Taraba
2. Zamfara
3. Kaduna
4. Kano
5. Bauchi
6. Gombe
7. Adamawa
8. Jigawa
9. Borno
10. Yobe
11. Niger
12. Kwara
13. Nasarawa
14. Kogi
15. Benue
16. Plateau
17. Cross River
18. FCT, Abuja

For several years, renowned African artist Tiwa Savage, often referred to as the ‘Bad Girl’ of the music scene, has kept the identity of the person who leaked her intimate video a closely guarded secret.

The scandal erupted in 2021, throwing her into a whirlwind of controversy and public scrutiny as the video circulated widely online. Click link to continue reading.

UK is now considering slashing visa fees and reducing the challenges for applications to lure global talents

The move comes as Trump hikes US H-1B visa costs to $100,000 and urges firms to priorities American nationals

Britain’s global talent taskforce, chaired by Patrick Vallance, explores measures to boost growth and attract world-class professionals

Britain is weighing plans to slash visa fees and speed up applications for leading foreign academics and digital experts.

This move is expected attract top US scientists away from home, attract global talent and challenge President Donald Trump’s efforts to keep talent in America.

The Financial Times UK said Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s “global talent taskforce” is reviewing measures to reduce costs and streamline paperwork, officials said

Treasury ministers are also exploring ways to attract elite researchers and innovators as part of a growth strategy

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The proposals to adjusts UK global talent visa come after Donald Trump administration raised the price of skilled-worker visas to $100,000 and urged universities and technology firms to prioritise American nationals in senior roles.

Although UK visas are far cheaper, the global talent route costs £766 per person plus a £1,035 health surcharge.

Major employers have complained about red tape and lengthy processing delays. UK Ministers are now considering cutting fees “to zero” GuardianUK reports.

Britain’s global talent visa was introduced in 2020, targets high achievers in science, engineering, medicine, digital technology, humanities, and the arts.

Report has it that the number of visas issued jumped 76% in the year to June 2023, reaching 3,901.

A Home Office spokesperson said the scheme was designed to: Attract and retain high-skilled talent, particularly in science, research and technology, to maintain the UK’s status as a leading international hub for emerging talent and innovation.

For Nigerians applying for the UK Global Talent visa depends on various circumstances.

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The UK government said applicants from abroad can apply directly for the visa if they have won an eligible prestigious prize. To apply UK government said: “Applicants must provide a valid passport or other proof of identity and nationality, along with tuberculosis test results if required by their country of origin.

Those who received a UK award or scholarship within the past year must also submit written permission from the granting agency or government.

“If you have not won a listed prestigious prize, you will need to apply for an endorsement instead.

Endorsements are available to applicants working in academia or research, arts and culture, or digital technology.”

Following the controversy surrounding his appointment, Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, the Eze Ndi Igbo in Ghana, has prompted Ismaila Adegbola, award-winning publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Naija Diaspora Magazine, to call on the Nigerian government and social media users to support Nigerian immigrants and ignore propaganda.

Reports indicate that Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu was featured in a viral video claiming to have acquired 50 acres of land in Prampram, along the Aflao road (Old Ningo), within the Ga Traditional Council, with the intention of establishing an empowerment centre.

Adegbola, who recently visited Ghana, shared his experiences and emphasized what Nigerians should do to support Eze Dr. Ihenetu while also dismissing false narratives on social media. He noted that the backlash against Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu has become excessive. After following several of his interviews, Adegbola observed that Ihenetu displays humility and a remorseful attitude, indicating he has good intentions for both Nigerians and Ghanaians.

While some voices in Ghana have been critical of Ihenetu, others have come to his defense. This polarization should not be allowed to create division within the community.

In his voice: “During my visit to Ghana last year, I saw how Nigerians live constructively, contributing to society in positive ways. At social events, I was impressed by their collaborative spirit and gratitude toward Ghanaians and their authorities. I also observed the commendable roles played by Nigerian leaders — including the Eze Ndi Igbo in Ghana, the Oba of the Yoruba community, Oba Alhaji Abdul Rashid Brimah IX, and several other influential Nigerians.

“In fact, I witnessed a remarkable moment when a Ghanaian chief bestowed a developmental chieftaincy title on Ambassador Oloye Oyeyemisola Fatuyi on August 23, 2024. He was enstooled as the Noryaa Mantse (Development Chief) of the Sakumono Divisional Council under the Nugua Stool in the Greater Accra Region, recognizing his contribution to community growth. The ceremony was colourful, vibrant, and deeply cultural — a celebration of unity and shared heritage. I was so impressed that I featured it in a recent edition of Naija Diaspora Magazine.

“The Igbos and Yorubas are thriving in Ghana. They collaborate closely, work together without discrimination, and celebrate one another’s progress. The Yoruba community, under their King, Oba Alhaji Abdul Rashid Brimah IX, has continued to flourish peacefully. At the events I attended, I felt a sense of love, oneness, and genuine togetherness. This is the Africa we need — an Africa without artificial borders. Ghanaians should view Nigerians as brothers and sisters, and Nigerians should reciprocate in kind.

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“I therefore appeal for a round-table dialogue so that this matter can be resolved amicably. We must not allow a few individuals with selfish interests to divide us. Nigeria and Ghana are not just pillars of West Africa, but of Africa as a whole. I commend both governments for their swift intervention — this reflects true brotherly care.

“Igbos in the diaspora have always been united, enterprising, and deeply connected to their roots. They make remarkable social and economic contributions to their host countries. While there may be a few lapses, the majority remain industrious, generous, and committed to strengthening both their lineage and their communities. May God continue to bless Africa. We are one people, and together, we are stronger.”

The publisher has urged all Nigerians living abroad to consistently honor and adhere to the laws of their host countries. By doing so, they contribute positively to the perception of Nigeria on the global stage

The Delta State Government, in collaboration with Tantita Security Services Limited, has inaugurated an 8-classroom block at the Medium Security Correction Centre, Okere Road, Warri, to boost inmate education and rehabilitation.

The facility, built by Tantita Security Services, was officially commissioned on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, with the state Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the ceremony.

Prof. Tonukari said the project reflects the state government’s commitment to using education as a tool for transformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates into society.

He commended Tantita Security Services for its corporate social responsibility, describing the partnership as a model for government–private sector collaboration.

“This initiative shows how education can serve as a bridge between incarceration and reintegration. By equipping inmates with knowledge and skills, we are not just giving them a second chance but also contributing to the growth and security of our state,” Tonukari stated.

The Commissioner further noted that Governor Oborevwori’s administration prioritizes policies and partnerships that empower people through learning, adding that the classrooms will provide a conducive environment for inmates to pursue knowledge and vocational training.

Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Ltd, Chief Keston Pondi, expressed commitment to investing in human development and community-building initiatives, stressing that education is critical to reducing recidivism and fostering peace in society.

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The inauguration ceremony underscored the growing synergy between government and private stakeholders in Delta State, with both parties affirming that the facility will serve as a beacon of hope for inmates seeking a new beginning.