Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has approved the 2026 draft budget, aptly titled the “Budget of Shared Prosperity.”
The N820.49 billion proposal marks a 35.7 percent increase from the 2025 revised budget, signaling a new phase of sustainable growth and inclusive development for the state.
Briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting on Thursday, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, said the budget focuses on five priority areas: boosting internal revenue, strengthening debt recovery, creating a business-friendly environment, deepening public-private partnerships, and ensuring completion of ongoing projects.
According to Idris, “The 2026 budget proposals reflect a robust and balanced financial strategy that emphasizes enhanced revenue generation, strategic expenditure control, and a strong commitment to capital investment.
The significant increase in both recurrent revenue and capital expenditure underscores the government’s determination to expand infrastructure and improve service delivery.”
He disclosed that both the total estimated revenue and expenditure stand at ₦820,490,585,443, maintaining a balanced fiscal outlook for the 2026 fiscal year.
The council meeting also reviewed key issues affecting the state, including insecurity, access to clean water, road safety, and land administration reforms.
The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, stated that the Ododo administration has strengthened the state’s security architecture, resulting in improved safety across communities.
Fanwo added that the Governor has directed all commissioners to provide at least three boreholes each in their respective local government areas to improve access to potable water.
He also revealed that the council resolved to transfer land consent authority to the state to curb fraudulent land transactions.
The meeting, which included the participation of former commissioners, reflected Governor Ododo’s inclusive leadership approach. Former Commissioner, Hon. Salisu Sani Ogu, commended the Governor’s leadership style, noting that “he has demonstrated a strong commitment to unity and continuity by carrying everyone along and building on the solid foundation laid since 2016.”
Credit: Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
