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Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has approved the 2026 draft budget, aptly titled “Budget of Shared Prosperity.” The bold ₦820.49 billion budget represents a 35.7% increase over the 2025 revised budget, signaling a new era of sustainable growth and inclusive development in the state. Briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Finance, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, stated that the budget focuses on five key areas: boosting internal revenue, strengthening debt recovery, fostering a business-friendly environment, deepening public-private partnerships, and ensuring project completion. According to him, “The 2026 budget proposals reflect a robust and balanced financial strategy emphasizing 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. ALSO READ: Police arrest Cameroonian human trafficking syndicate in Ogun “Effective monitoring of revenue inflows and strict fiscal discipline will be critical to achieving the desired outcomes. The total estimated revenue (recurrent and capital) is ₦820,490,585,443, while the total estimated expenditure (recurrent and capital) stands at ₦820,490,585,443 — making it a balanced 2026 draft budget.” Governor Ododo’s administration is also intensifying efforts to combat insecurity, with the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, highlighting significant progress in the state’s security architecture. The meeting also addressed critical issues, including access to clean water, road safety, and land administration reforms. Fanwo noted that Governor Ododo has directed all commissioners to sink three boreholes each in their respective local government areas and has mandated the Council to take over land consent authority to curb fraudulent land transactions. The inclusive meeting, which also featured former commissioners, reflected Governor Ododo’s commitment to unity and collective progress. Former Commissioner, Hon. Salisu Sani Ogu, commended the Governor’s leadership, saying, “He has shown a desire to carry everyone along and build on the foundation laid since 2016.” NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
