The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has proposed a ₦780.59 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, describing it as a “Budget of Inclusive Growth” aimed at consolidating the gains of his administration’s “People First” philosophy.
Presenting the Appropriation Bill before the State House of Assembly, Governor Otu said the proposal reflects a strong sense of duty and commitment to the development of the state, noting that the annual budget presentation goes beyond a mere bureaucratic exercise.
He explained that the budget was developed through consultations with civil society organisations, private sector stakeholders, NGOs, and the general public. The governor added that his administration would adopt the Human Development Index (HDI) as a key measure of progress, shifting focus from the traditional reliance on Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Read also COVID-19 Case Recorded in Cross River as Government Activates Emergency Response
Governor Otu pledged to expand access to education, healthcare, and electricity, particularly for rural entrepreneurs, while strengthening social protection systems. He also announced plans to operationalise the Cross River Social Investment Programme (CRSIP), which is designed to support the elderly, women, youth, and vulnerable groups through a non-political and multi-sectoral approach.
The proposed budget represents a 17 percent increase from the 2025 budget. Of the total, ₦519.6 billion (67 percent) is allocated to capital expenditure, while ₦260.96 billion (33 percent) is set aside for recurrent spending.
Sectoral allocations include ₦421 billion for the economic sector, ₦163 billion for social services, ₦164 billion for general administration, ₦28 billion for law and justice, and ₦3.6 billion for regional development
According to the governor, the 2026 budget is structured to boost the state’s revenue base, promote human capital development, and ensure a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient Cross River State.
Read also Cross River Government Debunks Alleged Abduction on Oron–Calabar Waterway
Reviewing the 2025 fiscal performance, Governor Otu noted that the “Budget of Sustainable Growth” was revised upward from ₦538 billion to ₦642 billion due to improved revenue inflows and prudent resource management. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
He explained that the supplementary budget was necessitated by urgent needs such as road rehabilitation, rural electrification, and counterpart funding for key national and international projects. He also highlighted the introduction of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Initiative aimed at reducing preventable deaths among mothers and infants.
The governor stated that the 2025 budget is performing well, citing major infrastructure projects such as the Adiabo–Ikoneto Road, the dualisation of the Esuk Utan–Depot Road, and the Yahe–Ebo–Wanakom–Wanikade road corridor.
He further pointed to progress in the power and health sectors, noting that solar-powered streetlights have been installed in urban areas, while rural communities are being supported through solar mini-grids. Health facilities across the three senatorial districts have also been upgraded, with a new General Hospital in Ikom nearing completion.
Governor Otu added that work on the Obudu Passenger and Cargo Airport is at an advanced stage, while pre-construction discussions for the Bakassi Deep Seaport are ongoing.
Read also Cross River Youth Commissioner Backs POCACOV Initiative
In the administrative sector, he disclosed that his government has implemented the national minimum wage, paid the first tranche of retirees’ gratuities, and expanded fibre optic connectivity across ministries, departments, and agencies to improve service delivery. He also noted that land administration has been digitised, with the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy resuming.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the 10th Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, commended the governor for achievements across various sectors, including road reconstruction, renovation of the State Library Complex, and improvements in primary healthcare centres.
Ayambem also praised the acquisition of two additional aircraft, regular payment of salaries and pensions, implementation of staff promotions, and approval of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) for legislative staff. He described the governor’s performance as “top-notch” and appreciated his commitment to the welfare of the people.
The Speaker further disclosed that the 10th Assembly has passed about 45 bills, all of which have received the governor’s assent, with resolutions fully implemented.
In a vote of thanks, the Leader of the Assembly, Rt Hon Francis Bassey Asuquo, commended Governor Otu for presenting the budget in a timely manner and assured him of the legislature’s cooperation to ensure its swift passage.
