BREAKING: Delta Governor Signs 13th-Month Salary Law, Four Others

SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has signed five bills into law, including the 13th Month Salary Law, 2026, aimed at improving workers’ welfare, strengthening the judiciary, protecting property rights, and reforming tax administration.

The governor signed the laws on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Asaba, describing them as part of his administration’s commitment to reforms under the MORE Agenda.

Oborevwori said the new laws would strengthen public institutions, enhance service delivery, and promote economic growth. He noted that the 13th-month salary initiative would boost workers’ morale, reward their contributions, and improve productivity.

The governor also signed amendments increasing the number of High Court judges from 46 to 50 and Customary Court of Appeal judges from nine to 12 to improve access to justice and enhance judicial efficiency.

Another law, the Public and Private Properties Protection Amendment Law, seeks to strengthen safeguards against the unlawful occupation and destruction of properties.

The Delta State Revenue Service (Consolidated) Law, 2026, is designed to harmonize tax administration, curb multiple taxation, and create a more favorable environment for investment.

The governor urged relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation, stressing that development goes beyond infrastructure to include policies that directly improve citizens’ lives.

Presenting the bills, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Emomotimi Guwor said the legislation would strengthen governance, protect investments, and improve justice delivery. He explained that the 13th-month salary benefit would apply to eligible public servants.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, welcomed the salary law, describing it as a boost to workers’ welfare and family well-being. She added that the initiative could stimulate business activities across the state.

The signing ceremony was attended by judicial officers, lawmakers, commissioners, and other senior government officials.

SNOW TV EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
The five laws represent a significant policy step towards improving public service welfare and strengthening governance in Delta State. The 13th-month salary could ease workers’ financial pressures, stimulate consumer spending, and improve morale. However, its long-term success will depend on clear eligibility rules, sustainable funding, and timely payment.

Similarly, increasing judicial capacity and protecting property rights could strengthen public confidence and attract investment. Harmonizing tax administration may also reduce the burden on businesses.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of these reforms will depend less on their formal enactment than on transparent implementation, adequate funding, and measurable results for workers, businesses, and residents.