By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday, presented a total budget estimate of ₦492.8 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, describing it as a realistic, reform-driven financial plan designed to consolidate the economic gains recorded in 2025.
Presenting the budget tagged “Budget of Economic Consolidation,” the governor said the proposal was guided by macroeconomic assumptions adopted from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) Fiscal Strategy Paper, with priorities focused on infrastructure expansion, food security, human capital development and prudent fiscal management.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the 2026 budget size of ₦492,795,667,939 was crafted to reflect current economic realities, particularly the volatility of federally shared revenues and disruptions caused by changes in VAT distribution.
He explained that on the expenditure side, the government deliberately designed a structure that encourages collaboration among all organs of government to drive “organic synergy” necessary for sustainable development.
The Governor announced that the 2026 expenditure framework reflects a Capital–Recurrent ratio of 57.22% to 42.78%, a signal of the administration’s strong commitment to infrastructure and long-term investment.
According to him, the sectoral and IPSAS-compliant distributions clearly show projected spending priorities for social services, economic growth sectors, administration and law, and justice.
Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the allocation pattern demonstrates a bold push for an infrastructure revolution, ensuring that all ongoing projects across the state receive adequate funding.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Mr Speaker, our intention on infrastructure revolution is clear. We look forward to completing the plethora of ongoing projects across the state. Rest assured that no project in Ondo State will be left abandoned,” he assured.
The governor said the 2026 budget will consolidate ongoing reforms through eight broad policy thrusts, including:
Sustained food security and agricultural transformation
Human capital development
Infrastructure expansion
Improved Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) drive
Social inclusion and protection
Economic diversification
Strengthened community development
Prudent fiscal management
He stressed the administration’s determination to reduce waste, minimise borrowing, and deepen technology-driven revenue collection systems.
Governor Aiyedatiwa used the occasion to commend the State House of Assembly for maintaining a stable and cooperative working relationship with the executive.
“Your exemplary leadership has fostered harmony and strengthened public trust. We are grateful for your unwavering dedication to the progress of our State,” he said.
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