The Delta State Government says it is set to embark on a comprehensive rebranding and modernization of its three state-owned media organizations as part of efforts to strengthen information dissemination and government visibility.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Monday during the 2026 budget defence session of the Ministry of Information before officials of the Ministry of Economic Planning in Asaba.
Aniagwu said the planned reforms, which form a major component of the 2026 fiscal proposal, would focus on The Pointer Newspapers, Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Asaba, and DBS Warri.
According to him, the move is a deliberate step by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to reposition the media houses for efficient, modern broadcasting and publishing in line with the “MORE Agenda.”
“Our priority areas in 2026 are to strengthen The Pointer, DBS Asaba, and DBS Warri, and to reposition them for modern broadcasting and publishing,” Aniagwu stated. “We are not just going to patch things; the idea is a complete rebranding that gives these institutions a new identity.”
He explained that the ministry’s proposed budget for 2026 is slightly above ₦5 billion, with ₦2.073 billion allocated for recurrent expenditure and ₦3 billion for capital projects. The figure, he said, reflects a modest increase compared to 2025.
Aniagwu further disclosed that the government had earlier deferred some capital projects in 2025 to allow for a full-scale restructuring of the media parastatals, noting that piecemeal interventions would not achieve the desired transformation.
The commissioner also identified challenges such as inadequate vehicles for staff and poor infrastructure in some agencies, expressing optimism that the new budget would address these gaps.
“As we speak, even my Permanent Secretary does not have an official vehicle,” he said. “We are hopeful that this budget cycle will correct such inadequacies and improve operational efficiency.”
Looking ahead, Aniagwu noted that 2026, being a pre-election year, would demand greater public communication and proactive media engagement to counter misinformation and promote transparency.
“As we move closer to 2027, political activities will increase. The ministry must therefore be equipped to manage information effectively and maintain the government’s positive image,” he added.
He also highlighted the ministry’s strides in social media communication, partnerships with journalists, and staff capacity building, stressing that the Oborevwori administration remains committed to timely project delivery and prompt salary payments.
“Delta remains one of the few states that pay civil servants as early as the 24th of every month,” he noted. “We will sustain this record while ensuring balanced development across upland and riverine areas.”
In his response, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, commended the Ministry of Information for its effective public communication efforts and assured that its proposals would receive fair consideration.
“We recognize the good work being done by the ministry in projecting government programmes,” Ekedayen said. “The committee will thoroughly review your budget and explore opportunities for partnerships with the private sector to boost sustainability.”
Also appearing before the committee was the Directorate of Government House and Protocols, led by its Permanent Secretary, Mr. Victor Udi, to defend its 2026 budget proposal.
