The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has approved a ₦1.39 trillion appropriation bill for the 2026 fiscal year, marking a reduction from the state’s adjusted ₦1.65 trillion budget for 2025.
The budget, which makes provision for ₦354.87 billion in recurrent expenditure and ₦1.035 trillion for capital projects, was passed on Tuesday following the presentation and adoption of a report by Dr. Itorobong Etim, Chairperson of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation.
The motion for the adoption of the committee’s report was moved by the Deputy Chief Whip and member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency, Sampson Idiong (APC), seconded by Lawrence Udoide (APC), and unanimously endorsed by members of the House.
Branded “The People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth,” the 2026 fiscal plan was formally presented to the legislature by Governor Umo Eno on November 25, 2025, for legislative consideration.
Prior to its passage, the House constituted itself into a Committee of Supply to undertake a detailed examination of the budget proposals. The appropriation bill subsequently underwent its third reading before being approved.
Presenting the committee’s findings, Etim said the estimates of revenue and expenditure for 2026 were prepared in line with Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the relevant provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2004.
She explained that the committee adopted an inclusive and participatory budget process, organising a public hearing that brought together ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), non-governmental organisations, and other key stakeholders.
Following extensive deliberations at the Committee of Supply, lawmakers unanimously adopted the report, paving the way for the bill’s ratification.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Udeme Otong, commended lawmakers for their unity, diligence, and cooperation, which he said contributed to the timely passage of the budget.
Otong also expressed appreciation to the leadership and staff of the Assembly, as well as other stakeholders, for their support and valuable input throughout the legislative process.
He subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Nsikak-Abasi Orok, to transmit the resolution of the Assembly to Governor Umo Eno for assent.
The House thereafter adjourned plenary to Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
About the Author
