By Uduakabasi Ikpatt
The 2026 “People’s Budget of Expan5sion and Growth” presents a bold and comprehensive roadmap for sustainable development, with a clear focus on infrastructure, human capital, and economic diversification.
As a renowned chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a critical analyst of Governor Umo Eno’s administration, I am thrilled to witness the presentation of the 2026 budget, aptly titled “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth.” This comprehensive budget proposal is a testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to the people of Akwa Ibom, and I have no doubt that it will bring about unprecedented prosperity and development to our beloved state.
The budget, which stands at N1.39 trillion, is a bold statement of intent, with a whopping 75% (N1.035 trillion) allocated to capital expenditure. This clearly indicates the governor’s focus on infrastructure development, job creation, and poverty alleviation. The significant allocations of N387.5 billion for roads and infrastructure, N31.6 billion for education, and N136.1 billion for health represent a crucial step toward transforming our state’s human capital and physical infrastructure.
One of the most impressive aspects of this budget is its emphasis on agriculture, which has been a game-changer for our state. The palm tree crop revolution, expected to create generational wealth for rural communities, is a testament to the governor’s vision for a diversified economy. The strategic distribution of farm implements, fertilizers, and tractors has already yielded positive results, with 69,107 beneficiaries and 13,060 registered farmers receiving agricultural processing machines and equipment.
The budget also strategically prioritizes tourism, with the development of the International Convention Centre, Ibom Hotels, and Arise Shopping City. These projects will not only create jobs but also showcase our state’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. The focus on social investments, including job creation and poverty alleviation initiatives, clearly demonstrates the governor’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Akwa Ibom citizens.
As a critical analyst of the governor’s administration, I can attest to the significant progress made in the past two years. Our roads are improving, the healthcare system is being revitalized, and education is receiving the attention it deserves. The governor’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and fiscal discipline has earned him the people’s trust, and I am confident this budget will be implemented with the same dedication and integrity.
The budget’s focus on youth development, with initiatives such as the Entrepreneurial Accelerator Programme (EAP) and the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DACS), is a welcome development. These programs will equip our young people with the skills and resources needed to compete in the global economy and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
In conclusion, Governor Eno’s 2026 budget is a bold and ambitious plan for the future of Akwa Ibom. It is a budget that prioritizes the people, focuses on job creation and poverty alleviation, and demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainable development. I urge all Akwa Ibom citizens to support this budget and join the governor in his quest to build a prosperous and thriving state. Together, we can achieve greatness!
*UduakAbasi Ikpat is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He writes from Ikot Isong in Etinan LGA.*
