Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has presented a N1.39 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, aimed at accelerating development and consolidating ongoing projects.

The budget, titled “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth,” allocates 75% to capital expenditure and 25% to recurrent spending. Governor Eno highlighted that the capital allocations include N387.5 billion for roads and infrastructure, N31.6 billion for education, and N136.1 billion for health, with the revenue projection set at N1.146 trillion.

“The emphasis on capital spending is deliberate,” Eno said, “to stimulate economic activities across the state in 2026 and ensure ongoing projects in all 31 local government areas—from model schools and healthcare centres to feeder roads, wet markets, water projects, and electricity supply. This is part of our effort to curb rural-urban migration and improve quality of life for our citizens.”

Citizens-Oriented Approach

The governor stressed that the budget reflects the inputs of Akwa Ibom residents, gathered through State-Wide Town Square Meetings and Needs Assessments, ensuring it is citizens-driven. Each of the 31 local governments will have at least one project derived from stakeholder submissions, with sectoral allocations to be detailed by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.

“The 2026 budget for growth and expansion aligns with the requests of stakeholders in every local government,” Eno noted, urging the House of Assembly to approve the budget promptly.

Political Alignment and Strategic Goals

Governor Eno reiterated the state’s alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, describing it as a move driven by “enlightened state interest.” With 24 lawmakers, 30 council chairmen, and executive members now in the APC, Eno said, “Akwa Ibom is solidly aligned with the centre, which is strategic for our development goals.”

Legislative Response

In response, Speaker of the House, Elder Udeme Otong, commended the governor for presenting a budget aligned with the ARISE Agenda, emphasizing agriculture, rural development, and healthcare. He assured that the Assembly will conduct critical oversight to ensure efficient resource allocation, elimination of waste, and prioritization of projects that directly improve citizens’ lives.

“Our aim is not merely to approve figures, but to guarantee that the budget drives growth and prosperity for Akwa Ibom people,” Otong added.