Analysis of the 2026 proposed budget and its socioeconomic impact on Akwa Ibom State

By Destiny Young | November 26, 2025

Governor Umo Eno’s ₦1.39 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill clearly reflects a strategic shift toward long term prosperity built on real sector expansion, social upliftment and responsible governance. Branding it a People’s Budget of Expansion and Growth is fitting, because the allocation directly targets the needs and priorities of the citizens.

Below is a sector by sector breakdown of how this budget will positively impact the socio economic structure of Akwa Ibom State.

1. Seventy Five Percent Capital to Twenty Five Percent Recurrent Ratio

This is one of the most development friendly budgets in the country today. More funds will go into physical projects, productivity and wealth creation instead of consumption. This means:

• More jobs for youths and skilled labour
• Stronger economic value chains
• Improved infrastructure to support businesses
• A more resilient economy less dependent on handouts

2. Road and Infrastructure Development, ₦387.5bn

With over 900 kilometres of ongoing road construction and zero abandonment reported, this budget sustains that momentum. Better roads mean:

• Easier market access for farmers and SMEs
• Attraction of investments into rural and semi urban communities
• Enhanced mobility for trade, tourism and services
• Increased property value and accelerated urban renewal

3. Agriculture: 69,000 Farmers Supported and Palm Crop Revolution

With food inflation hitting households nationwide, investment in food systems is vital. The continued support to farmers guarantees:

• Food security for Akwa Ibom families
• Processing and agribusiness expansion for job creation
• Foreign exchange earnings through palm produce derivatives
• Rural empowerment and poverty reduction

4. Education as a Weapon Against Poverty

Model schools and continuous investment in teacher and student welfare provide:

• A more skilled workforce for emerging digital and industrial sectors
• Reduced number of out of school children
• A competitive knowledge based society

5. Healthcare Transformation, 3,300 Workforce Expansion

The recruitment of 2,000 new workers and re engagement of experienced hands strengthens:

• Access to primary care in rural communities
• Improved maternal and child health outcomes
• Reduced medical tourism and cost burden on citizens
The new international hospital and diagnostic centres will attract:

• Specialist services
• Medical investment
• Training opportunities for health professionals

6. SMEs, Tourism and Creative Sector Growth

Focus on micro, small and medium enterprises encourages:

• Youth entrepreneurship and innovation
• Financial independence for households
• Development of the informal sector into tax contributing industries

Tourism and creative economy investment also positions Akwa Ibom as a regional leisure and entertainment hub.

7. Political Stability and Alignment with Federal Reform Agenda

By aligning with national leadership, Akwa Ibom gains:

• Better access to federal projects and intervention funds
• Harmonised policy direction for economic synergy
• A voice at the national table for state priorities

Unity and political maturity create an enabling climate where development continues uninterrupted.
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THE MANDATE MUST CONTINUE IN 2027

In less than three years, Pastor Umo Eno has demonstrated that leadership with vision, humility and fiscal discipline can change lives. The achievements recorded under the Arise Agenda are visible across all 31 Local Government Areas.

This budget confirms clearly that the mission is not yet finished.
For Akwa Ibom to fully enjoy the fruits of ongoing infrastructure development, agricultural transformation, industrial expansion, healthcare excellence and the empowerment of our youths and women, continuity is essential.

The Arise Agenda is working.

Now is the time for Akwa Ibom people to rise together, support Pastor Umo Eno beyond 2027 and ensure the complete realisation of a stronger and more prosperous Land of Promise.

Progress must not be interrupted.

Development must not be derailed.

Let us stand united and keep the Arise Agenda moving for the good of every Akwa Ibom son and daughter.

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• Destiny Young, is the Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media and Digital Communication