Akwa Ibom Governor Eno Signs ₦1.58 Trillion 2026 Budget into Law
Governor Umo Eno has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill, worth ₦1,584,271,856,630 (about ₦1.58 trillion), into law, setting the stage for the state’s financial priorities for the year.
The newly enacted budget was approved during an enlarged State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Uyo. It allocates ₦416.59 billion to recurrent expenditure, the cost of running government services, and ₦1.167 trillion for capital projects designed to drive development and infrastructure growth.
Governor Eno praised the cooperative relationship between the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and the executive branch, saying their teamwork has contributed to the state’s achievements in the past year. He urged officials to show “total commitment and passion” in executing their duties, warning that poor performance would not be tolerated.
“This year is not a year for excuses. It is a year for action,” the governor said, calling on council members to redouble their efforts to deliver results that will benefit residents.
Speaker Udeme Otong reaffirmed the legislature’s support for the governor, noting that more than 80 per cent of the 2025 budget had been implemented. He pledged continued collaboration between lawmakers and the executive to ensure the state’s progress remains on course.
After the signing ceremony, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning Dr. Linus Nkan explained that the original ₦1.39 trillion budget proposal, presented to the House in November 2025, was increased by about ₦194 billion following review and adjustments by ministries, departments and agencies during legislative hearings.
The governor also used the occasion to honour Dr. Anieti Udofia, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, as “Commissioner of the Year” for his role in the successful Christmas Unplugged 3.0 event. Dr. Udofia received a ₦20 million cash prize, while event planners were awarded ₦100 million. The governor additionally granted the commissioner a one-week leave.
Officials expressed confidence that the budget will boost investment, improve infrastructure, and stimulate economic growth across Akwa Ibom State throughout 2026.