2026 Budget: Delivering Sustainable Governance For Ekiti People

BY TAIWO OLATUNBOSUN

The 2026 Budget of Ekiti State is more than a financial document. It is a strategic blueprint for sustainable growth, inclusive development, and measurable impact in the lives of our people. With a total size of N415.57 billion, an 11 per cent increase over the 2025 fiscal year, this “Budget of Sustainable Governance” reflects Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration’s commitment to completing ongoing projects, strengthening institutions, and expanding opportunities for every Ekiti citizen.

At a time when misinformation can easily cloud public understanding, it is important to clearly outline what this budget truly represents: a people-focused roadmap designed to improve living standards, create jobs, and build a resilient economy.

Balancing Responsibility with Development- The 2026 budget carefully balances recurrent and capital expenditures to ensure both efficient governance and visible development. Approximately 53 per cent is allocated to recurrent spending to maintain essential public services, including salaries, healthcare delivery, school operations, and administrative support.

Significantly, about 46 per cent is dedicated to capital expenditure, investments that build roads, upgrade infrastructure, stimulate industries, and strengthen the foundations of long-term economic growth. This capital commitment underscores Governor Oyebanji’s resolve to prioritize development projects that citizens can see and feel in their daily lives.

Infrastructure: Building the Backbone of Economic Growth, Nearly 57 per cent of capital spending is directed toward infrastructure and industrial development. Across the state, road construction and rehabilitation projects will improve connectivity between rural and urban communities, making it easier for farmers to transport produce, traders to access markets, and workers to commute safely.

The planned procurement of transformers and upgrades to power infrastructure will strengthen electricity distribution, supporting businesses and households. Continued work on strategic projects such as ring roads, terminals, airport development, and township road rehabilitation is designed to unlock commerce, attract investment, and improve regional integration.

For our youths and skilled artisans, these projects translate directly into employment opportunities in construction, engineering, logistics, and allied sectors. For families and business owners, they mean easier travel, lower transport costs, and expanded economic possibilities.

Agriculture and Food Security: Empowering Rural Prosperity – Agriculture remains central to the livelihood of many Ekiti households. The N12 billion allocation to agriculture and rural development demonstrates our firm commitment to food security, income generation, and rural empowerment.
By investing in agricultural productivity and value chains, the government aims to stabilize food prices, enhance local food availability, and create sustainable income streams for farming communities. When farmers thrive, rural economies grow, and the entire state benefits from improved food supply and economic stability.

Human Capital Development: Investing in People – No society can progress without strong human capital. The 2026 budget sustains investment in healthcare systems and primary care services, building on previous gains in health worker deployment, insurance coverage, and service delivery. Strengthening primary healthcare ensures that families, especially in rural areas, can access essential medical services without undue financial burden.

In education, infrastructure improvements and program investments will enhance learning environments across schools in Ekiti State. Better facilities, improved resources, and supportive programs create stronger foundations for our children and youth, the leaders of tomorrow.

Economic Growth and Employment – The administration projects a N8.8 trillion Gross Domestic Product for Ekiti State in 2026, driven by coordinated investments across key sectors. By supporting small businesses, agriculture value chains, and infrastructure expansion, the government is positioning the state for broader economic participation.

This growth strategy is not abstract. It is designed to translate into real outcomes: reduced unemployment, stronger local enterprises, and improved household incomes.

Shared Prosperity and Social Protection – A central pillar of the 2026 budget is shared prosperity. Targeted social interventions and safety nets will support vulnerable groups, ensuring that development remains inclusive. Economic progress must lift all segments of society — not just a few.

Through responsible funding sources, including federal allocation, VAT, internally generated revenue, donor grants, and minimal borrowing, the state aims to maintain fiscal sustainability while delivering impactful programs.

Transparency, Accountability, and Delivery – We acknowledge that a budget’s value lies not only in its design but in its implementation. The administration remains committed to transparency, prudent fiscal management, and timely project execution. Citizens will continue to see evidence of delivery on the ground as projects move from planning to completion.
–Taiwo is Ekiti State Commissioner for Information