Cross River 2026 Budget Signed Into Law as Otu Vows Social Stability, Inclusion and Shared Prosperity
Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has formally signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, describing the document as a powerful declaration of purpose and a firm commitment to social stability, inclusion, and shared prosperity for the people of the state.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the Government House, was witnessed by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayamben, alongside members of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, top government officials, and key stakeholders.
According to Akahi News, the 2026 budget, estimated at ₦961 billion, is designed to consolidate the state’s economic recovery while laying a sustainable foundation for long-term development across critical sectors.
ross“A Blueprint for Economic Transformation” — Governor Otu
Speaking shortly after assenting to the bill, Governor Otu described the budget as far more than a statutory requirement, stressing that it represents a strategic roadmap for governance and people-centred development.
“This budget is more than a legal appropriation,” the governor said. “It is our blueprint for economic transformation, social protection, and the delivery of tangible dividends of democracy to our people.”
He noted that the 2026 fiscal plan was crafted to reflect present economic realities while positioning Cross River State for sustainable growth. According to him, the budget aligns with his administration’s broader vision of building a resilient economy driven by infrastructure development, human capital investment, and inclusive governance.
Akahi News gathered that the governor commended the Cross River State House of Assembly for what he described as its diligence, transparency, and patriotic commitment throughout the budgetary process.
“The level of engagement between the executive, the legislature, civil society organisations, and our economic managers reflects global best practices,” Otu said. “This synergy strengthens public trust and reinforces accountability in governance.”
Heavy Capital Investment to Drive Growth
Governor Otu disclosed that the ₦961 billion budget places strong emphasis on capital expenditure, with strategic investments targeted at infrastructure, healthcare, education, energy, and social protection.
“By prioritising roads, bridges, urban renewal, and rural connectivity, we are not just building infrastructure; we are unlocking economic opportunities across our cities and communities,” he stated.
He explained that improved infrastructure would stimulate commerce, attract private investment, and improve the quality of life for residents across the state.
According to Akahi News, the administration is also placing renewed focus on energy and urban development as catalysts for industrial growth and job creation.
Human Capital and Social Protection at the Core
Governor Otu reaffirmed that human capital development remains central to his administration’s agenda. He said education continues to receive strategic attention, with provisions made for improved learning infrastructure, teacher capacity development, and better learning outcomes.
“Our education sector remains the backbone of our future,” he noted. “We are preparing our young people for a modern and competitive economy.”
On healthcare and social welfare, the governor revealed that the budget provides for expanded medical facilities, improved service delivery, and strengthened social safety nets.
“No one will be left behind,” Otu assured. “We are committed to protecting the most vulnerable and ensuring that every citizen benefits from good governance.”
House of Assembly Commends Inclusive Process
Earlier, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayamben, said the legislature approached the budget with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the people.
“This House has a duty to speak for every segment of our society,” Ayamben stated. “We subjected the budget to rigorous scrutiny through an open review process to ensure accountability, transparency, and fairness.”
He explained that the lawmakers carefully examined allocations to ensure adequate funding for institutional strengthening, security response, and citizen protection, in line with constitutional responsibilities.
The Speaker further highlighted the strong capital orientation of the budget, noting that it would drive wealth creation and long-term economic expansion.
“From roads and power infrastructure to education and healthcare, the House ensured that every allocation reflects the aspirations and needs of our people,” he said.
Focus on Women, Youth, and Inclusive Growth
Both the governor and the Speaker emphasised the importance of women and youth empowerment in the 2026 fiscal plan.
Governor Otu noted that women play a critical role in shaping the state’s future, while Ayamben affirmed that the House supported targeted interventions in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, sports development, and economic inclusion.
According to Akahi News, these interventions are expected to address unemployment, stimulate innovation, and harness the creative potential of young people across the state.
A Shared Commitment to Progress
As he signed the budget into law, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to cooperation with the legislature and other stakeholders.
“Together, we shall advance financial harmony, accountability, and effective service delivery,” he said. “Together, we will deliver on the promise of greatness for Cross River State.”
Observers say the 2026 Appropriation Act signals a renewed drive by the Otu administration to entrench fiscal discipline, promote inclusive development, and reposition Cross River State for sustainable growth in the years ahead.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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