In what many are calling a game-changing move, the Delta State Government has earmarked a whopping N23.3 billion — half of its N46.7 billion education budget — for tertiary Education alone in 2025. This decision, according to education experts, is not only bold but also unprecedented in the country.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, said the Oborevwori-led government is making history with its strong focus on universities and polytechnics.
“Delta State is unique—it funds education more than any other state,” he declared proudly.
“We have four state-owned universities and several polytechnics serving over 100,000 students. This is a big jump from less than 20 years ago when DELSU Abraka had only about 3,000 students.”
The budget boost comes at a time when nearly 25,000 new students have been admitted across state institutions this academic year. Experts believe that the massive investment will help tackle infrastructure decay, strengthen academic staff, and expand course offerings — all crucial steps in building a skilled and competitive workforce.
Dr Grace Edafe, an education policy analyst based in Warri, sees the funding as a “long overdue intervention.”
“It shows that Delta is serious about producing a generation that can compete globally. When you invest in tertiary Education, you are investing in doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs and teachers of tomorrow.”
Prof. Godwin Akpokiniovo, a lecturer at the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, agrees.
“Beyond buildings, we now have resources for faculty development and research. This is what lifts a university from average to world-class,” he said.
For many parents and guardians, this is welcome news. Mrs Josephine Akere, a mother of two undergraduates, said it gives her peace of mind.
“We have suffered overcrowded classrooms and outdated courses. If this money is properly used, our children can have better learning conditions.”
Similarly, 21-year-old student Timi Oghenekaro, studying Mass Communication at DELSU, says he is already seeing signs of change.
“They are building a new media studio for our faculty. It means we will graduate with practical skills, not just theory.”
Beyond just infrastructure, the government is also pushing for academic innovation. DELSU has added four new faculties, including Dentistry, Computing, and Mass Communication, bringing its total number of faculties to twelve. Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and the Polytechnic in Utefo-Ugala have introduced over 30 new programmes combined.
“Indeed, this move is not just about getting more students into schools, it is focused on ensuring that they get relevant skills that will make them competitive in the labour market,” said Mr Christopher Emuobosa, an education consultant.
With Nigeria currently facing a situation of rising youth unemployment and a widening skills gap, Delta State’s strategic investment and focus on tertiary Education could become a model for other states in Nigeria to follow. Some experts have suggested that allocating more funds to tertiary Education is not enough; it must be managed effectively. They added that if the money is well-managed, the N23.3 billion investment could yield far-reaching benefits for the economy, healthcare, technology, and innovation sectors.
In the words of Prof. Tonukari, “This is not just a budget—it is a vision. And if executed properly, that vision could shape Delta State’s future for generations to come, “ he said.
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