Aiyedatiwa Presents N492.8bn 2026 ‘Budget of Economic Consolidation’ to Ondo Assembly
EERC: 17th November,2025, Akure
Ondo State Governor, His Excellency. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly, outlining an ambitious fiscal plan designed to consolidate recent economic gains and accelerate development across critical sectors.
Addressing lawmakers in Akure, the governor described the proposal—tagged “Budget of Economic Consolidation”—as a strategic roadmap aimed at deepening reforms, strengthening public finances, and sustaining the resilience the State demonstrated amid economic headwinds.
The governor opened his presentation with appreciation to the people of Ondo State for their continued trust, and to the Assembly for what he described as a productive and collaborative working relationship that has underpinned the progress recorded so far.
2025 Budget Review
Aiyedatiwa explained that the State’s 2025 budget initially stood at ₦698.659 billion, but revenue shortfalls—particularly from donor-funded inflows that failed to materialise—necessitated a downward revision. Only about half of expected donor funds are now projected to arrive, he said, posing risks to water sector development and economic gains tied to those funds.
To ensure fairness and realism, the 2025 budget was scaled down to ₦489.998 billion, enabling a more equitable reallocation of State resources.
Sectoral Progress in 2025
Education
The governor highlighted significant improvements in education, including the recruitment of 2,100 teachers, payment of ₦633.9 million WAEC fees for more than 23,000 students, and ₦350 million in bursaries and scholarships for tertiary learners. Over ₦10 billion was invested in the construction and rehabilitation of primary and secondary schools, while technical colleges received major upgrades.
OAUSTECH expanded from three faculties to seven schools and advanced its Blue Economy agenda with a new School of Maritime Studies in partnership with the Caribbean Maritime University.
Healthcare
Expansion of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS), continued support under the Abiyamo Maternal and Child Health Programme, and the upgrade of drug safety systems were recorded. Over 102 primary healthcare centres were renovated under the IMPACT project at a cost exceeding ₦7.2 billion.
Infrastructure
Significant progress was made in road construction, including major dualisation projects and about 60km of ongoing road works. More than 386km of rural roads were improved under RAAMP.
Urban infrastructure projects such as the Akure Township Stadium, Ultra-Modern Judiciary Complex, and the Oba’s Council Secretariat advanced, while pre-implementation work began at the Ilaje Industrial Hub and Sunshine Free Trade Zone.
Water and Rural Development
Rehabilitation of water schemes across multiple communities and progress on the Owena Multipurpose Dam and Owena–Ondo Water Supply Scheme are expected to benefit six LGAs. RAAMP also delivered upgraded rural roads, culverts, and drainage in all LGAs.
Agriculture
To strengthen food security, the State secured 26,000 hectares for agricultural projects, upgraded rural markets, and established a modern farmers’ market in Akure. More than two million cocoa seedlings were distributed to boost productivity and export potential.
Electricity
The long-abandoned Omotosho 2×15MW Power Plant was revived, solar mini-grids now serve 30 communities, and the State issued multiple generation and distribution licences to expand power access.
Environmental Management
Flood-prone areas received dredging interventions, disaster preparedness improved, and sanitation efforts across key cities were sustained.
OD-CARES Programme
More than 10,550 households received bimonthly cash transfers, while nearly 20,000 residents were engaged in labour-intensive public works. Grants were provided to 1,863 small businesses.
Social Welfare
The government released ₦2.396 billion to offset gratuity arrears for 2016–2017 retirees and restored the School Shuttle scheme with a ₦701 million investment.
ICT and E-Governance
Over 500 youths were trained in ICT skills, MDAs now have enhanced digital connectivity, and a tech hub is being established at OAUSTECH. The State also hosted an Artificial Intelligence Adoption Summit to shape its digital roadmap.
2026 Budget Philosophy
Aiyedatiwa stated that the 2026 budget builds on the 2025 “Budget of Recovery,” shifting from stabilization to consolidation. Facing global economic uncertainties and revenue risks from new national VAT distribution formulas, the State adopted a participatory approach involving civil society, private sector groups, artisans, youth bodies, and farmers.
Key Policy Thrusts for 2026
The governor listed eight major policy pillars, including:
Strengthening food security
Expanding human capital development
Accelerating infrastructure modernization
Boosting IGR through technology-driven systems
Promoting community development and climate resilience
Enhancing social protection
Driving economic diversification
Maintaining prudent fiscal management
2026 Budget Figures
A total budget proposal of ₦492,795,667,939.00 was presented.
The expenditure framework projects a recurrent-to-capital ratio of 42.78% to 57.22%, underscoring the administration’s priority on infrastructure expansion.
Aiyedatiwa assured the Assembly that no ongoing project will be abandoned, as adequate funding has been allocated to sustain the momentum of development across the State.
Appreciation and Closing Remarks
The governor commended the Assembly for its cooperation, security agencies for their vigilance, and traditional and religious leaders for their guidance and prayers. He also acknowledged contributions from civil society groups, youth organisations, professional bodies, and other stakeholders during the 2026 budget consultative forums.
He expressed confidence that the budget would receive due legislative consideration and pledged the Executive’s commitment to full and timely implementation.
Aiyedatiwa concluded by expressing optimism that 2026 would usher in greater progress, prosperity, and well-being for the people of Ondo State.
