Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday laid before the State House of Assembly a 2026 budget proposal of N820,490,584,443, signalling a major push for revenue expansion, fiscal discipline, and long-term development reforms.
The proposal marks a 35.7% increase, amounting to N215.96bn, over the 2025 budget of N604.5bn.
The 2026 fiscal plan is structured around N367.4bn recurrent expenditure and N453.04bn capital expenditure, underscoring the administration’s priority on infrastructure and growth sectors.
Presenting the budget tagged “Budget of Shared Prosperity: Driving Sustainable Growth for All,” Governor Ododo said his administration aims to enforce strict expenditure controls, strengthen revenue systems, and deepen investments in key sectors that support job creation and economic expansion.
He listed additional priorities: aggressive repayment of federal debts, strengthening the state’s investment climate, blocking revenue leakages, and aligning new initiatives with the state’s 32-year development plan.
“This budget is more than a financial statement. It is a roadmap for inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
“We are building an economy that rewards productivity, encourages innovation, and uplifts the vulnerable,” Ododo said.
Earlier, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, appealed to the governor to support efforts to computerize Assembly operations, noting that Kogi remains one of only two states yet to adopt full digital legislative processes.
He also raised concerns over inadequate staffing, urging the executive to help the Assembly reach the 200-personnel benchmark required for optimal legislative function.
He further requested government-provided transportation for staff, citing the long commute between town and the Assembly complex.
The Speaker commended the governor for improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education, and financial management.
“Your administration has shown remarkable dedication to improving the living conditions of our people. Kogi citizens are experiencing renewed confidence and stability under your leadership,” he said.
He also applauded the governor for granting full autonomy to the State Assembly, an action he described as a bold demonstration of respect for institutional independence.
Rt. Hon. Umar reassured the governor of the Legislature’s commitment to a transparent and development-driven budget review process, promising accelerated but diligent consideration.
He urged all ministries, departments, and agencies to cooperate fully with committees during budget defence sessions to ensure timely passage of the Appropriation Bill.
