The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council has approved a ₦1.390 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year for onward transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and passage.
The approval was among the key resolutions reached at the enlarged Executive Council meeting presided over by the Governor and Chairman in Council, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, at the Government House, Uyo, the Capital of Akwa Ibom.
In his opening remarks, Governor Eno urged all members to “continue to demonstrate dedication and commitment to the successful implementation of the ARISE Agenda.”
According to the Council resolutions, the 2026 budget proposal is anchored on deepening the dividends of the ARISE Agenda, with a focus on agriculture, rural development, infrastructure expansion, education, security, tourism, healthcare, economic diversification, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
The fiscal plan, which emphasises the completion of ongoing flagship projects, job creation through MSME support and tourism promotion, as well as enhanced transportation through CNG buses and ferries, also highlights fiscal discipline, transparency, and human capital development, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
The Council deliberated on a memo from the Secretary to the State Government conveying approvals of the Finance and General Purpose Committee (FGPC) and ratified an upward review of the total project cost for the Aviation Village within the Victor Attah International Airport. The review covers road dualisation, concrete paving, outfalls, perimeter fencing, gatehouse, electrical works, entrance tower, and a residential estate.
Council also ratified the FGPC approval for consultancy, design, procurement of broadcast equipment, and system integration for the Akwa Ibom State Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC) Television and Radio, awarded to Media Guru LLC, Dubai.
Following a report by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John, Council directed the immediate deployment of re-engaged retired health workers and the commencement of work on eight General Hospitals, 29 Primary Healthcare Centres, the State Public Health Laboratory and Isolation Centre, with the General Hospital, Ukanafun, slated for commissioning on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
Council further approved the release of ₦4.15 billion to Anchor Insurance Limited in exchange for State properties used in asset swaps.
In closing, Governor Eno commended the State Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, for his meritorious service as he retires from service and wished him success in his future endeavours.
“We remain committed to transparent governance, prudent resource management, and people-centred development. Akwa Ibom will continue to rise in unity, peace, and progress under God, ensuring continued growth and social inclusion for all Akwa Ibomites,” Governor Eno affirmed.