Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Tuesday presented a ₦1.39 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, describing it as “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth.”
The proposal represents a 16% reduction (₦260bn) from the revised 2025 budget, according to details published on the state government’s website.
A breakdown of the figures shows a heavy focus on capital projects, with Capital Expenditure taking 75% (₦1.035 trillion), while Recurrent Expenditure accounts for 25% (₦354.867bn).
Governor Eno explained that the capital-driven budget is designed to “accelerate and stimulate economic activities across the state” throughout 2026.
Key sectoral allocations include:
₦387.5bn for roads and infrastructure
₦31.6bn for education
₦136.1bn for health
Funding also earmarked for agriculture, security, SMEs, tourism, rural development, and housing.
Eno emphasized that the proposal reflects direct input from citizens gathered during the state-wide Town Square Meetings held across all 10 federal constituencies.
“This is a citizens-oriented budget. It draws from the needs assessment submitted by residents during our Town Square engagements,” he stated.
Calling for speedy passage of the budget, the governor appealed to lawmakers, saying, “I urge you to quickly pass this budget so we may continue to work for our people.”
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the removal of fuel subsidy has boosted state revenues.
“The removal of petroleum subsidy has provided states with more resources to implement capital and recurrent projects,” he said.
Reviewing his administration’s performance so far, Eno highlighted achievements across agriculture, education, infrastructure, security, rural development, sports, and healthcare—stressing that all projects are being executed without borrowing.
He noted significant progress under the agricultural revolution, stating:
“Over 69,107 farmers have benefited so far, and 13,060 registered farmers have received modern agricultural processing equipment.”
Upcoming initiatives include a palm tree crop expansion programme, tractor leasing scheme, and upgrades to AKADEP’s operational facilities.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the ARISE Agenda, adding:
“We remain intentional about ensuring ongoing projects across all 31 LGAs—from model schools to healthcare centres, new feeder roads, water projects, electricity, and wet markets.”
Responding after the budget presentation, the Speaker of the House, Elder Udeme Otong, praised the proposal as aligned with the state’s development strategy. He assured lawmakers would conduct thorough scrutiny to ensure efficient use of public resources.
“Our aim is not just to approve figures but to eliminate waste and ensure accountability,” he said.
The budget is now set to undergo legislative review in the coming weeks, hobnob news reports.
About The Author
