Governor Hope Uzodimma, on Monday, made another history in Imo State as becoming the first to hit the trillion mark in budgetary presentation, sending a whooping N1.439, 573,590,405.04 draft budget for 2026 to the State Assembly for consideration.

Th draft which he christened “Budget of Economic Breakthrough,” will go a long way in synergizing infrastructure with all the critical economic programmes initiated by his administration in the years gone by, to achieve economic freedom and independence for the state.

The emphasis, he noted, is to enable the state reap the full benefit of the of initiatives in the area of Light Up Imo Project, Orashi Free Trade Zone, Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport expansion, Digital Economy, and consequently, job creation and economic transformation.

Presenting the proposal at the Imo State House of Assembly Complex Monday, December 22, 2025, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that the budget builds on achievements recorded over the past six years, including over 130 completed roads, six functional tertiary hospitals, and improved security across the State.

The 2026 budget represents a 78 percent increase from the 2025 budget.

A breakdown of expenditure shows a strong capital investment drive, with N1.201 trillion (83.4 percent) allocated to capital expenditure, while N238.5 billion (16.6 percent) is set aside for recurrent expenditure – covering personnel costs, overheads, and statutory obligations.

On revenue, the state expects N823.27 billion from recurrent revenue sources, including Internally Generated Revenue, statutory FAAC allocations, VAT, derivation funds, and other federal transfers.

Capital receipts from development partners and donor agencies are projected at N382.72 billion.

Capital expenditure is largely directed at economic and social development. The economic sector receives over N1.01 trillion, followed by the social sector with N87.7 billion, administrative services with N32.8 billion, and special intervention votes.

Strategic ministries also receive significant allocations, reflecting government priorities.

For instance, the health sector receives the largest share, aimed at rehabilitating health facilities and improving access to essential services.

Major funding is also earmarked for works and infrastructure, power, education, agriculture, rural development, and entrepreneurship and skills acquisition to drive employment and inclusive growth.

The Governor described the budget as "a roadmap to sustained economic breakthroughs," assuring that all ongoing projects would be completed and that the investments would translate into tangible benefits for the people of Imo State.

Governor Uzodimma assured the lawmakers that no project would be abandoned and described the budget as a foundation for industrialisation, economic stability, and shared prosperity for Imo residents.

Governor Uzodimma had recalled the state of Imo when he took over the mantle of leadership, noting that the penchant for human beings to have short memory will not fail them so much as to not recall what Imo was looking like in all ramifications in 2020.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, praised the achievements of the State Government under Governor Uzodimma, describing the administration’s record as impactful and forward-looking.

Speaking at the Assembly complex, Olemgbe emphasised cooperation among arms of government and reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to democratic principles.

He highlighted key gains of the 3R Administration, including improved security, the establishment of the Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, timely payment of civil servants’ salaries, and the recruitment of over 6,000 teachers.

The Speaker also commended ongoing infrastructure development, citing extensive road projects and notable improvements at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.

He acknowledged progress in the digital economy, pointing to the creation of a dedicated Ministry that has enhanced government efficiency and social services.

Referencing the recent Imo Economic Summit, Olemgbe described it as a major boost to the State’s investment outlook.

He concluded by expressing confidence in the Assembly’s performance and pledged that lawmakers would give the 2026 budget thorough, urgent and constructive consideration in the interest of Imo State’s continued growth.

In their remarks, the Hon. Members representing; Orsu, Oguta, Oru East, Owerri Municipal and Isiala Mbano Constituencies (Uche Agabige, Gilbert Nwosu, Chigozie Nwaneri, Clinton Amadi and Sam Osuji) expressed delight on the 2026 appropriation bill and commended Governor Uzodimma for the achievements recorded in the State.

They described the budget as an ambitious document that will provide meaningful impact in the State and for Imo people, and promised to give it accelerated consideration.

In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, commended the Governor for the feat achieved within his administration which stemmed from the harmonious relationship between the legislative and the executive arms of the government, and assured him of continued partnership in the greater interest of the State.

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