By Isaiah Eka
Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom on Tuesday presented a budget of N1.39 trillion for the 2026 financial year before the state House of Assembly.
Speaking at the presentation, Eno said that recurrent expenditure stood at N354.87 billion, while N1.035 trillion would be used for capital expenditure.
The governor said that the 2026 budget represented a decrease of 16 per cent in the 2025 revised budget of N1.65 trillion.
He further said that the total capital receipts and expenditure for 2026 was estimated at N1.15 trillion, as against the revised provision of N897.14 billion for 2025.
Eno said that the 2026 budget christened “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth” would strengthen food security and sufficiency through mechanised agriculture, small-holder production and value chain promotion.
The governor announced a projected recurrent revenue of N1.17 trillion for 2026, representing a nine per cent shortfall in the 2025 estimate which stood at N1.26 trillion.
He said that a capital receipt of N791.98 billion would be transferred from the consolidated revenue fund, while the balance of N243.16 billion would be derived from other sources.
“Income earning potentials of rural households will be enhanced through home farm schemes, access to farm inputs, credit and extension services, and agro-processing support.
“The policy thrust of the budget is to improve the living conditions Akwa Ibom people in rural areas.
“The government will electrify rural communities, upgrade and construct rural roads, and renovate primary healthcare facilities.
“We shall complete ongoing flagship projects such as roads, bridges, aviation, health facilities. We shall begin projects that are critical for connectivity, trade, investment and job creation,” he said.
The governor urged the house to expedite action on the passage of the budget to enable the government to provide democracy dividends to the people.
In his remark, the Speaker, Mr Udeme Otong, urged ministries, departments and agencies of the government to cooperate with the house by providing the required information.
“We pledge to do a thorough job, and ensure speedy passage of the budget. The house shall scrutinise the budget with diligence, patriotism, and fairness.
“The essence is to ensure that it aligns with the state’s long term development blueprint.
“Our job is not to approve figures, but to ensure efficient allocation, eliminate waste and duplication, and strengthen fiscal discipline,” he said. NAN
