Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on Monday, presented a ₦1.43 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the Imo State House of Assembly.
The proposed budget represents a 78 per cent increase over the 2025 budget of ₦807 billion and is titled “Budget of Economic Breakthrough.”
Presenting the budget, Uzodimma said it comprises 83.4 per cent capital expenditure and 16.6 per cent recurrent expenditure, reflecting his administration’s focus on infrastructure-driven economic growth.
He explained that the proposed recurrent expenditure of about ₦238.499 billion would cover personnel costs, overheads, and statutory subventions, while capital expenditure was projected at slightly over ₦1 trillion.
According to the governor, the budget is predicated on improved federal allocations and enhanced internally generated revenue, alongside his administration’s ambition to eliminate what he described as a “generator-based power economy” and deliver world-class infrastructure to stimulate economic development.
Uzodimma described the proposal as “a clear statement of my administration’s direction and determination to provide the critical infrastructure required for economic breakthrough in the state.”
A breakdown of sectoral allocations shows that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security received ₦20.506 billion, while the Ministry of Health was allocated ₦698.163 billion.
The Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development was allotted ₦87.727 billion, while the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition is to receive ₦6.471 billion.
The Ministry of Power and Electrification was allocated ₦190.451 billion, the Ministry of Education ₦60.623 billion, while the Ministry of Rural Development is to receive ₦15.106 billion.
The governor commended the state legislature for what he described as its partnership and consistent support for the executive arm of government.
In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Mr Chike Olemgbe, expressed optimism that the budget would lead to improved power supply, expanded infrastructure, enhanced healthcare delivery, stronger human capital development, and sustained food security in the state.
Olemgbe also praised the governor’s security initiatives and assured him of the Assembly’s support in implementing policies aimed at advancing the state’s development.
In a vote of thanks, Deputy Speaker, Mr Amarachi Iwuanyanwu, commended Uzodimma for what he described as diligent leadership and notable achievements in governance.
The House subsequently adjourned plenary to December 23 for the second reading of the bill.
