The Cross River State House of Assembly has approved an upward review of the 2026 supplementary appropriation bill, raising it to N963 billion. This revised figure represents an increase of N1.45 billion from the earlier N961 billion provision, translating to a 0.15 per cent rise.
Approval Following Committee Report
The approval was granted after the House considered the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation during its sitting on Thursday. Presenting the report, the committee chairman, Cyril Omini, who represents Yakurr II State Constituency, explained that the review addressed additional financial requirements that had emerged.
Mr Omini stated that the adjustment was designed to achieve strategic objectives, including infrastructure capitalisation, counterpart funding, macroeconomic adjustments, and social interventions. He listed unforeseen expenditures, new policy initiatives, and increased revenue prospects among the factors necessitating the supplementary budget.
Reasons for the Budget Review
The lawmaker also cited improved employment opportunities and enhanced public service delivery as additional reasons for reviewing the appropriation. He said, “This adjustments will promote prudent fiscal management, improve budget implementation and direct resources toward priority programmes and projects. These measures are aligned with Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ mantra and aimed at delivering greater value to citizens.”
Following the deliberations, the House authorised the implementation of the supplementary budget in accordance with relevant provisions of the law. The Speaker, Elvert Ayambem, commended the committee for being thorough in discharging its duties.
Legislative Process and Next Steps
The Chief Whip, Hillary Bisong, representing Boki II State Constituency, moved the motion for the third reading of the bill, while Linus Etim, representing Akamkpa II State Constituency, supported it. The approval paves the way for the state government to implement the revised budget, which is expected to fund priority projects and programmes in line with the administration's objectives.
