Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, passed an executive bill that makes the payment of a 13th-month salary to public servants a legally binding entitlement, transforming what began as a welfare initiative by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori into a permanent statutory right that no future administration can casually discard.
The bill, titled the Delta State Payment of Thirteenth-Month Salary Bill, 2026, scaled its third reading during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor. To fast-track its passage, the House suspended relevant standing orders, with the Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, moving the motion for suspension, which was adopted by members. The legislation provides for the payment of basic salary and fixed monthly allowances, excluding salary arrears and overtime, ensuring clarity on what constitutes the 13th-month entitlement.
Speaker Guwor, in his remarks after the passage, described the development as a bold step towards strengthening workers' welfare and reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to the constitutional principle that the primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of the people. He said the passage of the bill further affirmed the Oborevwori administration as a welfare-oriented and worker-friendly government, declaring that "the payment of the 13th-month salary to public servants in Delta State has come to stay."
The bill's passage followed a report presented by the House Committee on Establishment, Ethics and Privileges, chaired by Hon. Edafe Emakpor. Emakpor explained that the proposed law was designed to establish a legal framework for the policy while improving the welfare and productivity of workers across the state. He noted that institutionalising the payment would provide public servants with greater assurance and certainty, while contributing to improved morale, productivity and overall wellbeing. The law is expected to provide stronger institutional backing for the annual payment and enhance the welfare package of workers.
Governor Oborevwori had first announced the approval of the 13th-month salary bonus during the 2026 Public Service Week, marking the first time in Delta State's history that such a policy was introduced for civil servants. At that time, he said payment would begin from December 2026, and he has since reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of the state's workforce. The governor also disclosed during a separate event in August 2026 that he had approved the payment as part of his administration's broader efforts to reward dedication to public service.
With the bill's passage, Delta State is set to become the first state in Nigeria to provide a statutory framework backing the payment of a 13th-month salary to its public servants, according to The Guardian. The development has been welcomed by workers and stakeholders who see it as a significant step towards financial security and improved welfare in the state's public service.
The bill now awaits the governor's assent to become law. Once signed, the 13th-month salary will no longer be a discretionary gesture subject to the goodwill of any administration, but a legal entitlement that public servants can claim as a matter of right. For the workers of Delta State, the legislation represents more than a financial bonus; it is a recognition of their contributions and a guarantee that their welfare will not be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience. As the Speaker declared, the 13th-month salary has come to stay.
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