Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has formally submitted a massive spending proposal of ₦1.44 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year to the state's legislative arm. The budget presentation took place at the Imo State House of Assembly on 23 December 2025.
A Budget Anchored on Industrialisation and Shared Prosperity
In his address to the lawmakers, Governor Uzodimma detailed that the proposed budget, named the 'Budget of Economic Breakthrough', is designed to build upon the foundations laid by the 2025 appropriation law. He stated that the plan is deeply rooted in his administration's 3R mantra and Shared Prosperity philosophy.
"Our 3R mantra and Shared Prosperity philosophy are rooted in a simple but powerful goal: to build a new Imo State – industrialised, opportunity-driven, and prosperous for every citizen," the Governor declared. The overarching aim is to transform Imo into an economy that generates widespread opportunity and delivers tangible prosperity across all sectors.
Massive Capital Allocation for Infrastructure and Growth
A defining feature of the 2026 budget is its heavy skew towards capital projects. Governor Uzodimma revealed that a staggering 83.4 per cent of the total ₦1.44 trillion is earmarked for capital expenditure. This allocation underscores a continued strategic focus on infrastructure development and productive investments intended to stimulate long-term economic expansion.
The governor identified key sectors targeted for substantial funding, which include:
- The general economy
- Healthcare services
- Power and energy
- Public works and infrastructure
The remaining portion of the budget is allocated to recurrent expenditure. Uzodimma emphasised that this scale of capital spending reflects a deliberate intention to execute projects that will not only support economic growth but also directly improve the quality of life for Imo State residents.
Pathway to Legislative Approval and Implementation
During the assembly session, Governor Uzodimma urged the honourable members to give the appropriation bill prompt and diligent consideration to facilitate its passage into law. He expressed confidence that the bill captures all sectors of the state's economy, ensuring a broad-based and inclusive development agenda.
"Every sector is deliberately captured in this mission to build an economically viable Imo State for all. I therefore trust the Honourable House to give the bill prompt and diligent consideration for passage into law," he stated.
The Imo State House of Assembly is now expected to commence the standard legislative process, which will involve detailed scrutiny by relevant committees and potentially public hearings. Once the bill successfully passes through the assembly and is signed into law, it will become the official financial blueprint guiding all government spending in Imo State throughout the 2026 fiscal year.
