Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Wednesday 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 the state’s tax administration.
The governor, who signed the bills at the Government House, Asaba, described the development as part of his administration’s commitment to reforms under the M.O.R.E Agenda.
He said the laws would strengthen public institutions, improve service delivery and promote economic development.
He said the 13th month salary law would boost workers’ morale, reward their contributions and improve productivity.
Oborevwori also signed judicial 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, while assenting to the Public and Private Properties Protection Amendment Law, said it would strengthen and safeguard against unlawful occupation and destruction of property.
On the Delta State Revenue Service (Consolidated) Law, 2026, he said it would harmonise tax administration, curb multiple taxation and promote investment.
He said development is beyond infrastructure and should include policies that improve lives.
He commended the assembly and urged relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation of the laws.
Presenting the bills, the Speaker, State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, said the bills would strengthen governance, improve justice delivery and protect investments.
Guwor said the 13th month salary law provided benefits for eligible public servants, while the judicial amendments would enhance court efficiency and the property law would safeguard public and private assets.
Meanwhile, the outgoing Delta Head of Service, Dr Mininim Oseji, described the 13th month salary law as a boost to workers’ welfare and family wellbeing.
She said the policy would stimulate business activities and thanked Oborevwori for the initiative, describing it as a welcome development for workers and people of Delta.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the signing ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Judge of Delta, Justice Tessy Diai, represented by Justice Briki Okolosi; and the President, Customary Court of Appeal, represented by Justice Tracy Uriah.
Also present were the Deputy Speaker, State House of Assembly, Arthur Akpowowo; principal officers of the assembly; the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice; the Secretary to the State Government; Commissioners and other senior government officials.
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