Lokoja, Nigeria – The Governor of Nigeria’s Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has presented a state budget proposal worth ₦820.49 billion to the State House of Assembly.
The proposed financial plan for the 2026 fiscal year, titled the “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” prioritises significant investments in physical development and economic growth.
Infrastructure Takes the Lead
Governor Ododo addressed lawmakers in Lokoja, describing the budget as a people-centred roadmap designed to boost infrastructure, enhance human capital, and promote enterprise growth across the state.
Crucially, the budget allocates a higher proportion to capital projects, reflecting the administration’s focus on long-term assets:
- Capital Expenditure: ₦453.04 billion (55%)
- Recurrent Expenditure: ₦367.4 billion (45%)
The Governor noted that the substantial capital outlay would be funded through capital receipts, including internal and external loans, aids, and grants.
Economic Performance and Outlook
In his address, Governor Ododo highlighted several positive economic indicators recorded by Kogi State in 2025:
- GDP Growth: The state’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was estimated to have grown by 3.8%, supported by key sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, trade, and construction.
- Unemployment: The unemployment rate reportedly improved from 18.6% in 2024 to 16.2% in 2025, following targeted investments in youth empowerment and small-to-medium enterprises (MSMEs).
- Poverty Reduction: The state’s poverty index saw a decline from 35% to 32%.
Governor Ododo stressed that the 2026 plan would focus heavily on improving revenue mobilization, recovering outstanding federal debts, and blocking financial leakages.
“Our vision is clear: to create an economy that works for every citizen—one that rewards productivity, encourages innovation, and uplifts the vulnerable,” the Governor declared.
The State House of Assembly is expected to commence a detailed review and oversight of the bill in the coming days.
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