This report, which was prepared by independent consultants with the joint technical assistance of UNDP, UNICEF, WHO and FAO, is the UN's response to the request of the Delta State Government to carry out an assessment of its performance in four key sectors: education, health, agriculture, and water, sanitation and hygeine (WASH). The analysis of each sector involved a careful examination of the policies and strategies adopted by the government, the governance and regulatory framework put in place, as well as identification of gaps and challenges in performance. It also focuses on sectoral performance using, among other things, the MDG targets and indicators.

The aim of the report is to generate lessons to strengthen the capacity of government for effective stewardship and the development of the State. The policy recommendations presented at the end of each sector appraisal provide the basis for evidence-based policy formulation and implementation, as well as for regulation and legislation which will channel resources towards enhancing the welfare of the people of Delta State.

Translating these policy recommendations into action could mean reducing the incidence of disease and providing the people with better access to health care and education. In a nutshell, it means ‘human development, which is about people; about expanding their choices to live full creative lives with freedom and dignity. Fundamental to expanding their choices is building human capabilities: the range of things that people can do to attain along and healthy life, education, a decent standard of living and enjoy political and civil freedoms to participate in the life of one's community.

The report highlights concerted efforts that the state and federal governments, the different communities, civil society organizations, and the private sector have helped to make to expand the opportunities available to people in Delta State. It also points out that while substantial progress has been made in meeting some of the targets, it is still necessary to develop a bolder and focused action plan where significant gaps and disparities exist in order to address the unfinished business of the MDGs and prepare for the Post-2015 Development Agenda.