Abakaliki, Ebonyi—Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on Tuesday presented a substantial ₦884.868 billion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, labelling it the “Budget of Actualisation and Hope.”
The proposal, delivered at the State Assembly complex, is heavily skewed towards development, with a striking ₦749.49 billion (84.7 per cent) earmarked for capital expenditure and ₦135.37 billion allocated for recurrent costs.
Governor Nwifuru stated that the financial plan is designed to accelerate infrastructure development, strengthen human capital, and consolidate key sector reforms, aligning with his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs” philosophy. He stressed that the budget would drive industrialisation, deepen economic recovery, and improve the standard of living for Ebonyi residents.
Key Highlights and Sectoral Focus
- Fiscal Strategy: The administration’s fiscal determination was highlighted, with the Governor describing the budget as a product of “determination, discipline, and sincerity,” despite national economic challenges.
- Infrastructure: Major projects cited include the VANCO Flyover and Tunnel, the completed Iziogo Tunnel, and ongoing works on the Nwezenyi and Nwofe Junction flyovers, alongside extensive township and rural road rehabilitation.
- Education: Landmark achievements include the establishment of the University of ICT, Oferekpe, and the commencement of the University of Aeronautic Engineering, Ezza. The administration also noted the construction of 43 model secondary schools and the award of over 1,000 local and overseas postgraduate scholarships.
- Welfare and Debt: Reflecting on past challenges, Governor Nwifuru reported that thousands of pensioners have now received their long-awaited gratuities, noting this move “restored not just their financial stability but their dignity.”
- Empowerment: Over 5,000 residents reportedly benefited from empowerment programmes, receiving financial support ranging from ₦1 million to ₦100 million for entrepreneurship and artisanal projects, alongside vocational and agribusiness training.
- Health: Achievements in the sector include free maternal care, improved emergency medical services, upgraded general hospitals, and the revival of the drug revolving fund.
The Economic Sector received the largest share of the budget, with ₦492.93 billion (55.71%), followed by the Social Sector at ₦247.97 billion (28.02%).
The Governor urged the State Assembly to give the Appropriation Bill accelerated consideration to ensure the prompt execution of planned projects.
