Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has officially enacted the state's financial plan for the 2026 fiscal year, signing a substantial N985.9 billion Appropriation Bill into law. The ceremony, held at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, marks a significant commitment to development, with the education sector receiving the lion's share of the budget.
Budget Breakdown: Education and Infrastructure Take the Lead
Governor Sani presented a detailed sectoral allocation, underscoring his administration's priorities. A commanding 25 per cent of the total budget has been assigned to education. The Governor justified this significant allocation by stating that knowledge is the most potent instrument for dismantling poverty and securing a brighter future for the state's youth.
Matching education's share, another 25 per cent is dedicated to infrastructure and rural transformation. This portion is aimed at opening up communities, connecting markets, and stimulating statewide economic activity. The health sector follows with a 15 per cent allocation, reinforcing the government's belief that a healthy populace is fundamental to productivity and dignity.
Furthermore, agriculture and food security received 11.65 per cent of the budget, highlighting a commitment to empowering farmers, ensuring food supply, and strengthening the local economy. The governor also noted deliberate provisions for climate change, nutrition, and environmental sustainability within the fiscal plan.
Capital Focus and Fiscal Discipline
A defining feature of the 2026 budget is its heavy tilt towards capital projects. Governor Sani disclosed that a whopping N698.9 billion, representing 70.9 per cent of the total budget, is earmarked for capital expenditure. This funding is targeted at infrastructure development, economic expansion, and improved public service delivery.
The recurrent expenditure, which covers the day-to-day running of government, is set at N287 billion or 29.1 per cent. In a notable move towards fiscal responsibility, Governor Sani emphasized that the 2026 budget introduces no new loans. His administration has already paid N114.9 billion in debt servicing, demonstrating a resolve to safeguard the state's financial future while addressing current needs.
Grassroots Empowerment and Inclusive Development
Dubbed the "Budget of Consolidation of Transformation for Inclusive Development," the plan introduces a landmark grassroots initiative. Governor Sani announced that N100 million will be allocated to each of Kaduna State's wards for community-driven projects. This approach is designed to empower local communities to determine their own development priorities, fostering a bottom-up model of governance.
The Governor stressed that this initiative exemplifies a government that listens, includes, and delivers. He acknowledged that the budget's success hinges on effective implementation and sustained collaboration with the Kaduna State House of Assembly, promising a cordial and productive relationship with the legislature.
Governor Sani concluded by framing the budget as more than mere figures, but a promise of progress, opportunity, and an enhanced quality of life for every resident of Kaduna State.
