Gov Umo Eno Presents ₦1.39 Trillion 2026 Budget To Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly 

Tuesday November 25, 2025
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The Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, November 25, presented a ₦1.39 trillion Appropriation Bill for 2026 to the State House of Assembly, describing it as “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth.

The Governor opened his address with a political reflection, noting that the last time he appeared before the Assembly, “we were members of another political party.” He said the State’s movement to the APC was driven by enlightened state interest, adding that Akwa Ibom is now fully aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda.

“With 24 lawmakers, 30 chairmen, EXCO members and political structures now APC,” he stated, “Akwa Ibom is solidly aligned with the centre, and this is strategic.”

He highlighted remarkable progress across the ARISE Agenda, including support to over 69,000 farmers, the ongoing palm crop revolution, model schools, healthcare upgrades, and extensive infrastructure development. The Governor noted that more than 900 km of roads are currently under construction statewide, with none abandoned, alongside improved security, water projects, tourism, aviation, social welfare and SME growth.

Governor Eno reported major gains in healthcare, including the re-engagement of 1,300 retired workers, recruitment of 2,000 new staff, hospital and PHC upgrades, and progress on the new international hospital and diagnostic centre. On education, he reaffirmed that it remains the State’s strongest weapon against poverty.

Presenting the fiscal highlights, Governor Eno proposed a ₦1.39 trillion budget, 25% recurrent and 75% capital expenditure, designed to stimulate growth and consolidate ongoing development. Roads and major infrastructure will take ₦387.5bn, with strong votes for education, health, SMEs and strategic projects across the three senatorial districts. Revenue projection for 2026 stands at ₦1.146 trillion.

He reminded political actors that the election season must not derail peace, urging all sides to conduct politics with maturity.
“Even if you disagree with us, let us play politics with decorum. The brother you fight today may become your ally tomorrow.”

The Governor urged the Assembly to expedite consideration of the budget, assuring that the Arise Agenda will continue to deliver quality governance across the State.
“Our achievements in two and a half years are inspiring,” he said. “Let us remain united so our people can continue to thrive in this Land of Promise.”

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, welcomed the Governor and his team, describing the annual budget presentation as “a cornerstone of democratic governance.” He commended the impact of the Arise Agenda, noting that it has “brought succor and renewed hope to the people of Akwa Ibom State.”

He praised the administration’s strides in tourism development, humanitarian programmes such as the ARISE Compassionate Homes, and other people-focused interventions. He said the House expects enhanced support for SMEs, community enterprises, education, healthcare, tourism and the creative sector.

The Speaker also appreciated the Governor for the ongoing renovation of the Assembly Complex and for providing a conducive temporary workspace during the rehabilitation period. He assured that the House would thoroughly scrutinize the budget to ensure efficient resource allocation and prioritization of projects that uplift the people.

In a vote of thanks, the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, commended the Governor for a visionary and expansion-driven fiscal plan. He lauded the impressive capital-to-recurrent ratio, describing it as a strong statement of development commitment. The Leader assured that the House will give the budget speedy consideration and timely passage in the interest of the Akwa Ibom people.