By Abasi Ita
Gov Umo Eno Unveils ₦1.39tr 2026 Budget, Prioritises Expansion, Growth and Federal Alignment
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Tuesday presented a ₦1.39 trillion Appropriation Bill for 2026 to the State House of Assembly, describing it as a “People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth” aimed at accelerating development across key sectors.
Presenting the budget during plenary in Uyo, Governor Eno said Akwa Ibom is now fully aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, noting the State’s recent political transition to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He described the move as a strategic decision driven by the collective interest of Akwa Ibom people.
“With 24 lawmakers, 30 chairmen, EXCO members and political structures now APC, Akwa Ibom is solidly aligned with the centre, and this is strategic,” he said.
The Governor highlighted substantial progress under the Arise Agenda, including support for more than 69,000 farmers, the expansion of palm crop cultivation, model schools, healthcare upgrades and extensive infrastructure projects. According to him, over 900 kilometres of roads are currently under construction across the state, with none abandoned, alongside significant investments in security, water supply, tourism, aviation, social welfare and SME development.
In the health sector, Governor Eno reported the re-engagement of 1,300 retired workers, recruitment of 2,000 new personnel, and upgrades of hospitals and primary healthcare centres. He also mentioned ongoing work on a new international hospital and diagnostic centre. On education, he reiterated that it remains the state’s most effective tool in the fight against poverty.
Unveiling the fiscal structure, Governor Eno proposed a 75 per cent capital and 25 per cent recurrent expenditure ratio, insisting that the focus is to stimulate economic growth and consolidate development gains. Roads and major infrastructure projects are expected to receive ₦387.5 billion, alongside significant allocations for education, health, SMEs and strategic projects across all senatorial districts. Revenue projection for 2026 is pegged at ₦1.146 trillion.
He urged political actors to ensure that the election season does not compromise peace, appealing for maturity and decorum in political engagement.
“Even if you disagree with us, let us play politics with decorum. The brother you fight today may become your ally tomorrow,” the Governor cautioned.
Governor Eno requested the Assembly’s speedy consideration of the budget, assuring that the Arise Agenda will continue to deliver effective and inclusive governance.
Welcoming the Governor, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, described the annual budget presentation as a vital democratic tradition. He commended the administration for impactful programmes in tourism, humanitarian support such as the ARISE Compassionate Homes, and various people-oriented interventions.
The Speaker also acknowledged the ongoing renovation of the Assembly Complex and the provision of a conducive temporary workspace. He assured that the House would thoroughly scrutinise the budget to ensure efficient resource allocation and prioritisation of projects that benefit the people.
In a vote of thanks, the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, praised the Governor for presenting a forward-looking and expansion-driven fiscal plan. He described the robust capital-to-recurrent ratio as a strong signal of development intent and assured that the Assembly would give the budget swift and diligent passage in the interest of Akwa Ibom residents.