Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has presented a ₦1.44 trillion budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year to the Imo State House of Assembly, describing it as the “Budget of Economic Breakthrough.”
The proposed budget of ₦1,439,573,590,405.04 represents a 78 per cent increase over the 2025 budget of ₦807 billion. Uzodimma said the increase is driven by improved FAAC inflows, enhanced Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and the administration’s determination to deliver world-class infrastructure and end reliance on generator-powered electricity.
The governor explained that the 2026 budget is aimed at driving economic transformation through the Light-Up Imo Project, oil and gas investments, the Orashi Special Energy Free Zone, a functional Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport and a growing digital economy. He disclosed that the Light-Up Imo initiative alone is expected to create over 100,000 jobs and boost small and medium-scale enterprises.
A breakdown of the proposal shows that ₦238.5 billion (16.6%) is allocated for recurrent expenditure, while ₦1.201 trillion (83.4%) is earmarked for capital projects. Total projected revenue stands at ₦1.206 trillion, leaving an estimated deficit of ₦233.58 billion.
Key sectoral allocations include Health (₦698.16bn), Power (₦190.45bn), Works (₦87.73bn), Education (₦60.62bn) and Agriculture (₦20.51bn).
Responding, the Imo State House of Assembly pledged full cooperation with the executive to ensure the successful implementation of the budget.
Speaking during the presentation, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, said the Assembly would work closely with the governor and other stakeholders to deliver a budget that serves as a roadmap for a brighter and more prosperous Imo State.
Olemgbe expressed confidence that the budget would enhance power supply, accelerate infrastructure development, improve healthcare delivery, strengthen human capital development and sustain food security.
He also commended the governor’s achievements in the areas of digital economy, infrastructure, energy, security, tourism and health.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, reaffirmed the legislature’s readiness to partner with the executive on developmental projects, while the Chief Whip and member representing Oru East, Rt. Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri, assured that the House would give the 2026 budget expedited consideration.
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