Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has officially presented a budget proposal of N492,795,667,939.00 for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly. The presentation, which took place on Monday in the state capital, Akure, marks a strategic plan to build upon recent economic progress.
A Budget Forged by the People
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the "Budget of Economic Consolidation" was not created in isolation. He revealed that the proposal was shaped through a participatory process that gathered inputs from a wide range of stakeholders. This included communities, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, youth bodies, artisans, and farmers, ensuring the budget reflects the collective aspirations of the people of Ondo State.
The governor also provided context by explaining that the 2026 proposal follows a significant downward revision of the 2025 budget from N698.6 billion to N489.9 billion. This adjustment was necessary after anticipated donor inflows failed to materialize. Aiyedatiwa stated that this move was crucial for maintaining a realistic fiscal outlook and reducing the state's dependence on unpredictable external funding.
Building on the Gains of 2025
To justify the theme of consolidation, the governor highlighted key achievements recorded in 2025, which the new budget aims to solidify. These accomplishments include:
- The employment of 2,100 teachers to bolster the education sector.
- The recruitment of 500 medical personnel to improve healthcare services.
- The restoration of financial support for WAEC examinations and bursary awards for students.
- The expansion of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme to cover more citizens.
Governor Aiyedatiwa articulated that the 2026 budget represents a deliberate shift from mere restoration to the sustained consolidation of these economic gains, aiming to transform short-term progress into long-term prosperity and inclusive development.
Strategic Focus for the Future
The proposed budget is anchored on eight strategic policy thrusts designed to guide the state's development in the coming year. These key areas of focus are:
- Food Security
- Human Capital Development
- Infrastructure Expansion
- Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Reforms
- Social Protection
- Prudent Financial Management
In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the state lawmakers to give the appropriation bill prompt and careful consideration. He expressed strong optimism that the effective implementation of the 2026 budget would bring greater progress, stability, and well-being to all citizens of Ondo State, reinforcing the foundation for a resilient economy.
