Umo Eno Unveils ₦1.39 Trillion Budget To Deepen ARISE Agenda Impact In 2026

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has proposed a ₦1.39 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at deepening the dividends of his administration’s ARISE Agenda and sustaining ongoing development efforts across key sectors of the state’s economy.

The proposed budget, which received the approval of the State Executive Council at its meeting held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, will be transmitted to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for consideration and passage. The meeting was presided over by the governor and attended by members of the council, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Civil Service, commissioners, special advisers, permanent secretaries, and heads of extra-ministerial departments.

Governor Eno urged members of the council to maintain dedication and commitment toward the full realization of the ARISE Agenda, which focuses on agricultural development, infrastructure expansion, rural transformation, education, healthcare, security, tourism, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

The 2026 fiscal plan emphasizes the completion of flagship projects, job creation through support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as the promotion of tourism as a driver of economic growth. It also prioritizes the expansion of transportation options through the introduction of CNG buses and ferries, improved fiscal discipline, and human capital development, particularly targeting women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

At the meeting, the council ratified several key approvals, including the upward review of the total project cost for the Aviation Village, which covers dualization of access roads, concrete paving, perimeter fencing, electrical works, and residential estate development within the Victor Attah International Airport. The council also approved a contract for consultancy, design, procurement, and system integration of broadcast equipment for the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), awarded to MediaGuru LLC, Dubai.

On the health sector, the governor directed the immediate deployment of re-engaged retired health workers across various health facilities as part of efforts to sustain the state of emergency in the sector. The Ministry of Health was also mandated to commence work on eight general hospitals, 29 primary healthcare centres, and a molecular diagnostics and state public health laboratory. The General Hospital, Ukanafun, is now scheduled for commissioning on November 18, 2025.

In another major decision, the council approved the release of ₦4.15 billion to Anchor Insurance Limited to recover prime state assets previously used in asset swap transactions for recapitalization. The governor directed the appointment of an estate valuer to assess the properties and instructed Akwa Ibom Property and Investment Company (APICO) and Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP) to convert such assets into wealth for the state.

The meeting also considered a presentation from the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice on proposed executive bills, including the Domestication and Harmonization of Taxes and Levies Bill and the Akwa Ibom State Property Tax Law, both designed to align with the recently enacted National Tax Act. The bills were approved for transmission to the state assembly for consideration and passage.

In closing, the governor commended the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for his meritorious service to the state and extended condolences on the passing of Reverend Emmanuel Ossom, a respected cleric, directing council members to visit his family and offer support.