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Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has presented a ₦1.031 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly, describing it as a “Budget of Consolidation” aimed at sustaining development gains and addressing emerging socio-economic challenges.
Speaking at the Assembly Chamber in Minna, Bago said the proposal earmarks over ₦270 billion for recurrent expenditure, representing 26.19 per cent, while more than ₦761 billion, or 73.81 per cent, is allocated to capital projects.
He explained that the state would fund the budget through statutory allocations, value-added tax (VAT), internally generated revenue (IGR), FAAC receipts, capital inflows, grants and loans.
According to the governor, the 2026 budget consolidates earlier achievements and responds to current development priorities in the face of changing global economic conditions.
He said the economic sector received the highest allocation, exceeding ₦510 billion, reflecting the administration’s focus on job creation, agricultural transformation and sustainable economic growth. By contrast, the transportation sector received the lowest allocation, with just over ₦1 billion.
Bago identified key priorities for the 2026 fiscal year as wealth and job creation, agricultural reform, improved healthcare delivery and the consolidation of road infrastructure. Other focus areas include completing inherited water and power projects, strengthening education, boosting internal revenue generation, digitising state-owned media, enhancing peace and security, and pursuing strategic development partnerships.
He added that the budget rests on fiscal discipline, strategic investments and targeted interventions designed to expand economic opportunities and improve residents’ quality of life.
Reviewing the 2025 fiscal year, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He praised the Speaker and members of the 10th House of Assembly for their cooperation, which he said had strengthened governance and public trust.
Bago urged lawmakers to give the budget speedy consideration and passage to accelerate development, and called on residents to support his vision of a secure, green and prosperous Niger State.
Responding, Speaker AbdulMalik Sarkin-Daji commended the cordial relationship between the executive and legislature. He praised the governor’s respect for due process and inclusive consultation, and assured that the House would fast-track the budget’s passage in the interest of the state’s development.
