The Special Adviser (SA) to Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State on Budget Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Otu Ita, has expressed confidence that the state’s 2026 budget proposed by the governor and recently presented to the State House of Assembly will create room for more development across the state and greater opportunities for Cross Riverians if approved by the lawmakers.
Mr. Ita in a media chat assured the people that there would be a meaningful improvement in the lives of Cross River residents and considerable empowerment of the vulnerable population in the state from the implementation of the 2026 budget.
According to the SA Budget Monitoring and Evaluation, “The 2026 Budget of Cross River State offers a strong framework for improving the lives of citizens through increased infrastructure investment, human capital development and empowerment of vulnerable groups. People can expect better roads, expansion of electricity connectivity, improved health and education services, and increased economic opportunities across the state.”
The 2026 budget proposal presented to the state legislator for legislative scrutiny and further deliberations is N780.59 billion. The proposed N780.59 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year is 17 percent greater than the 2025 budget. N519.62 billion (67%) is reserved for capital expenditure and N260.96 billion (33%) for recurrent spending. The sectoral allocations include economic sector – N421b, social services – N163b, general administration – N164b, law and justice – N28b and regional development – N3.6b.
The targeted sources to raise the funds needed to finance the expenditures are: State Government Share of FAAC – N376 billion; Capital Receipts, Aids, Grants, Capital Development Funds – N345 billion; Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) – N50 billion and Opening balance – 8 billion.
Prior to the presentation of the 2026 budget proposal to the state assembly, Governor Otu in demonstration of his determination and commitment to participatory governance, inclusive budgeting process and financial transparency, ensured that consultative forums were held in the three senatorial districts of the state to get the direct inputs of the people for the budget formulation, with a view to properly capture their needs, yearnings and aspirations.
The consultative meetings coordinated by the SA Budget Monitoring and Evaluation and described by many as a hallmark of responsive leadership on the part of the governor, provides a crucial platform for grassroots participation in determining the state’s financial trajectory and aligns with Otu’s People-First governance philosophy.