Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has presented a ₦780.6 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, tagged the “Budget of Inclusive Growth”, aimed at advancing his administration’s “People First” agenda and promoting even development across the state.
Presenting the proposal before the State House of Assembly, Governor Otu said the budget focuses on human capital development, infrastructure expansion, healthcare delivery, and job creation.
Of the total figure, ₦519.6 billion is allocated for capital projects, while ₦260.9 billion is earmarked for recurrent expenditure.
The Governor explained that the state will now measure progress using the Human Development Index (HDI), focusing on citizens’ quality of life and education, rather than relying solely on economic statistics.
He highlighted the performance of the 2025 budget, citing improvements in healthcare, road construction, and social welfare.
On public service reforms, Otu stated that his administration has implemented the national minimum wage, cleared part of retirees’ gratuities, and digitized land administration to enhance efficiency.
Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, commended the Governor for prioritizing inclusive development and pledged the Assembly’s cooperation for speedy consideration and passage of the budget.
