Delta Ministry Presents 2026 Budget, Prioritise Digitalisation, Service Delivery

The Delta Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (SAN), yesterday, presented his ministry’s budget for the 2026 fiscal year before the State Ministry of Economic Planning.
Speaking with newsmen in Asaba, shortly after the presentation, Ohwovoriole highlighted the ministry’s priorities for the coming year, focusing on digitalisation, improved service delivery, and enhanced access to justice for all citizens.
The commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Omamuzo Erebe (SAN), said: “We cannot afford to remain behind.
”Happily, the State Government has given us significant support to ensure justice is brought to the common man,” he said.
He emphasised that the laws of the state were now freely accessible.
“Many services that previously required payment are now available to the public through the State Government’s website, the Ministry of Justice website, and the Law Pavilion, at no cost,” he said.
Ohwovoriole also spoke about the ministry’s virtual court hearing system, aimed at ensuring faster and more efficient case management.
He said: “A lot of people say cases take too long in court, but with the virtual court hearing system, cases move smoother, quicker, and faster.
”If a person is guilty of an offence, justice should be delivered promptly.
”Civil matters should also proceed without unnecessary delays,” he said.
Ohwovoriole confirmed that several bills were currently being drafted and would be forwarded to the House of Assembly as executive bills.
“The process is ongoing. Any perceived delays are not from our side.
“The governor is a great proponent of timely legislation, and these bills will come as executive bills in due course,” he said.
Reflecting on the ministry’s performance in 2025, the commissioner said that significant progress was made, particularly in staff capacity building.
“Capacity building is key. Since the beginning of this year, we have conducted over 20 training sessions to ensure our staff members are properly trained.
”The ministry can hold its head high, in terms of staff professionalism,” he said.
Ohwovoriole also spoke on the improved welfare for civil servants.
“Encouraging and compensating civil servants is crucial.
“Today, no employee in the ministry can complain of unpaid work or travel allowances.
”In fact, some staff receive payment before attending court.
“We have taken great steps to ensure fairness and efficiency,” he said.
The commissioner affirmed the ministry’s commitment to a justice system that is faster, fairer, and more accessible, in alignment with the ‘MORE Agenda’ of the Delta Government.