Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday laid before the State House of Assembly a ₦820.49 billion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year, describing it as a financial roadmap designed to drive shared prosperity, sustainable growth, and stronger economic competitiveness.
The 2026 estimate tagged “Budget of Shared Prosperity: Driving Sustainable Growth for All” represents a 35.7% increase from the 2025 budget of ₦604.5 billion, amounting to an upward difference of ₦215.96 billion.
Presenting the proposal to the lawmakers, Governor Ododo said the budget is structured around enhanced revenue mobilisation, strict expenditure discipline, and strategic investments in key growth sectors.
The appropriation bill projects ₦367.45bn for recurrent expenditure and ₦453.04bn for capital spending.
Ododo said the 2026 spending plan would prioritise:
Aggressive repayment of Federal Government debts
Strengthening the investment climate
Collaborative investment models
Blocking revenue leakages
Consolidating ongoing projects while initiating new ones aligned with the state’s 32-year development plan
> “This budget is more than a financial statement; it is a roadmap for inclusive growth, economic diversification, and shared prosperity,” Ododo said.
“Our aim is to create an economy that works for all one that rewards productivity, encourages innovation, and uplifts the vulnerable.”
Speaker Seeks Assembly Digitisation, Staff Strengthening
Earlier, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, urged the governor to support the Assembly’s push for full digitisation of its operations. He lamented that Kogi remains one of only two states yet to adopt full digital legislative processes.
He also appealed for recruitment of qualified staff to meet the 200 minimum support personnel needed for optimal legislative work, and requested transport buses to ease mobility for staff who commute long distances to the Assembly complex.
Assembly Applauds Ododo’s Governance Style
The Speaker commended Governor Ododo’s strides in fiscal discipline, infrastructure expansion, security enhancement, and human capital development.
> “There is no doubt the people of Kogi State are experiencing renewed confidence and stability under your leadership,” he said.
He also thanked the governor for granting full autonomy to the State House of Assembly, describing it as a landmark step for accountability and stronger institutions.
Yusuf further appreciated the governor’s personal visit during his recent health challenge, calling it a gesture of empathy and statesmanship.
House Promises Diligent, People-Centred Budget Scrutiny
On the 2026 budget, the Speaker assured that lawmakers would undertake a transparent, development-driven review process, while giving the bill accelerated but thorough consideration in line with global best practices.
He tasked Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to honour committee invitations for budget defence to ensure timely passage.
The 2026 budget debate is expected to commence immediately as the Assembly begins its appraisal of sectoral allocations and spending priorities.
