By Our Correspondent
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has presented a proposed budget of N884.8 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly. He described the plan as a major step toward expanding development, improving infrastructure, and strengthening the states economy.
The 2026 proposal is the largest budget in the history of the state. According to the breakdown, more than 84 percent of the entire amount is allocated to infrastructure and other capital projects. The government said this focus is aimed at accelerating long term development and creating new economic opportunities across Ebonyi.
One of the major projects captured in the budget is the establishment of a state owned cement plant. To finance this project, the state plans to borrow N150 billion through a self financing loan arrangement which will be repaid from the revenue generated by the plant over time. The governor explained that the loan will not place additional financial pressure on the state.
Nwifuru noted that the size of the 2026 budget was made possible through increased revenue inflows after the removal of the federal fuel subsidy. He said the new fiscal environment has created more room for states to pursue impactful developmental projects.
A new tax law is also included in the 2026 financial plan. The law, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, aims to make taxation fairer by ensuring that high income earners contribute more, while citizens earning below N20,000 monthly will be exempted from paying tax. The government said this reform will correct long standing imbalances in the states revenue system.
The governor also restated his commitment to completing all ongoing projects. He cited the redesign of the VANCO Junction Tunnel in Abakaliki, which was extended to 840 metres to ensure durability and long term usefulness instead of adopting a cheaper and shorter design.
To highlight the progress of his administration, Nwifuru announced that the state will hold a 27 day commissioning programme starting on May 1, 2026. During the event, President Bola Tinubu is expected to visit the state several times to commission at least ten major projects.
Governor Nwifuru called on residents of Ebonyi to support the development direction of the government. He said the 2026 budget reflects a clear plan to improve infrastructure, expand economic activities, and bring meaningful growth to all parts of the state.
