Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has officially laid before the state's House of Assembly a proposed budget of N985.9 billion for the 2026 fiscal year. The governor presented the financial plan, described as a people-centred blueprint, at the Lugard Hall on Monday, December 1, 2025.
A Budget Forged Through Widespread Consultation
Governor Sani emphasised that the draft budget was the product of one of the most extensive public consultations in the state's history. He revealed that the process actively involved traditional rulers, civil society organisations, women's and youth groups, academia, business leaders, and vulnerable populations from all 23 local government areas.
Inputs from farmers, traders, teachers, artisans, persons with disabilities, and widows directly shaped the final document, a move the governor said strengthens participatory governance and public accountability. He framed the budget not merely as a constitutional duty but as a "solemn civic engagement" built on transparency, equity, and citizen welfare.
Breakdown and Key Sectoral Allocations
The proposed N985.9 billion budget is structured with N734.2 billion as recurrent revenue and N251.6 billion as capital receipts. A significant highlight is the allocation of 71% of the total budget to capital expenditure, underscoring the administration's focus on development projects.
The sectoral allocation reveals the government's priorities:
- Education and Infrastructure: 25% each
- Health: 15%
- Agriculture: 11%
- Security: 6%
- Social Development: 5%
- Governance: 5%
- Climate Action: 4%
Nigeria's Largest Grassroots Budget Model
A landmark initiative in the budget is the direct allocation of N100 million to each of the state's 255 electoral wards. This fund is designated for projects identified by the communities themselves through their Ward Development Committees. Governor Sani hailed this as Nigeria's largest grassroots budget model, designed to ensure development reaches every corner of the state.
In his address, the governor urged the lawmakers to give the Appropriation Bill expedited consideration, stating it embodies a vision for "renewal, resilience and progress in every home, ward and local government."
Legislative Reception and Assurance of Speedy Passage
The Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Liman, commended the budget proposal, describing it as "ambitious, comprehensive and aligned with the state's development priorities." He noted its clear commitment to expanding rural infrastructure, strengthening human capital, and ensuring balanced urban-rural development.
Speaker Liman also applauded the governor for a historic move: granting legislators direct involvement in constituency projects while respecting the principle of separation of powers. He credited the existing synergy between the Executive and Legislature for enabling the delivery of democracy dividends.
The Speaker assured the public that the House would conduct a thorough and transparent review of the budget and work closely with the executive arm to ensure its speedy passage into law.
