Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Wednesday signed into law the Thirteenth Month Salary Law, 2026 Bill intended to improve the welfare of workers under the state government employ.
The governor also signed into law four other bills designed to strengthen the judiciary, protect property rights and reform the state’s tax administration.
Governor Oborevwori, who appended his signature on the five bills at the Executive Council Chambers if the Government House Asaba, described the development as part of his administration’s commitment to reforms under the M.O.R.E. Agenda.
He expressed optimism the laws would strengthen public institutions, improve service delivery and promote economic development.
On the Thirteenth Month Salary Law, the governor said the initiative would boost workers’ morale, reward their contributions and improve productivity.
He also signed amendments increasing High Court judges from 46 to 50 and Customary Court of Appeal judges from nine to 12 to improve justice delivery.
The governor said the Public and Private Properties Protection Amendment Law would strengthen safeguards against unlawful occupation and destruction of properties.
On the Delta State Revenue Service (Consolidated) Law, 2026, he said it would harmonise tax administration, curb multiple taxations and promote investment.
Oborevwori said development went beyond infrastructure to include policies that improve lives. He commended the Assembly and urged relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation of the laws.
Presenting the bills, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said that the laws would “strengthen governance, improve justice delivery and protect investments.”
“The Thirteenth Month Salary Law provides for the benefit for eligible public servants, while the judicial amendments would enhance court efficiency and the property law to safeguard public and private assets”, the Speaker noted.
Nonetheless, the outgoing Delta Head of Service, Dr Mininim Oseji, described the Thirteenth Month Salary Law as a boost to workers’ welfare and family wellbeing.
While noting that the policy has potential to stimulate business activities, Dr. Oseji commended the governor for the initiative.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai, represented by Justice Briki Okolosi; the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, represented by Justice Tracy Uriah; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, principal officers of the State House of Assembly; the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice; the Secretary to the State Government; Dr Kingsley Eze Emu, members of State Executive Council Commissioners and several other senior government officials.