By Damilola Isaiah, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday presented a N492,795,667,939.00 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, describing it as a plan to consolidate recent economic gains and deepen reforms across key sectors.
Presenting the appropriation bill before the State House of Assembly in Akure, the state capital, Aiyedatiwa said the budget was shaped through participatory inputs from communities, civil society groups, and the private sector and youth bodies.
The governor said the proposal follows the downward review of the 2025 budget from N698.6 billion to N489.9 billion after several donor inflows failed to materialise.
He noted that the adjustment ensured a realistic fiscal outlook and reduced dependence on external funding.
He said “Today, we are here before this honourable House by the grace of God and the uncommon goodwill of the people of our Sunshine State, to present the 2026 Budget proposals for Ondo State tagged “Budget of Economic Consolidation”.
”The title of 2026 Budget of Economic Consolidation is aptly justified as the natural progression from previous years’ activities and, therefore, reflects a deliberate shift from mere restoration to sustained consolidation of economic gains, ensuring that the progress recorded in 2025 matures into long-term prosperity, resilience and inclusive development for the people of Ondo State.
”As we begin preparing the 2026 budget, we have continued our tradition of participatory budgeting. This approach has broadened the input of communities, civil society groups, the private sector, youth bodies, artisans, farmers and other key stakeholders in shaping the 2026 Budget.
”Putting these key parameters and assumptions into consideration, a total budget of N492,795,667,939.00 billion has been proposed for 2026 Fiscal Year.”
Aiyedatiwa highlighted key achievements in 2025, to include the employment of 2,100 teachers, recruitment of 500 medical personnel, restoration of WAEC and bursary support, and the expansion of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme.
He said the 2026 budget is anchored on eight strategic policy thrusts, including food security, human capital development, infrastructure expansion, IGR reforms, social protection and prudent financial management.
Aiyedatiwa urged lawmakers to give the budget prompt consideration and expressed optimism that 2026 would bring greater progress and stability to the State.
“Mr. Speaker, we hope the 2026 Budget will receive the same careful consideration from this Honourable House, while the Executive remains committed to its timely and effective implementation. We anticipate that 2026 will bring significant progress, prosperity and well-being to our citizens,” he said.
