The Kogi State House of Assembly has formally approved the 2026 Appropriation Bill, concluding weeks of legislative scrutiny, public engagement and budget defence sessions aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in the state’s fiscal planning.
Speaking to journalists after the bill was passed on the floor of the Assembly on Wednesday, the Chairman of the House Committee on Budget Monitoring and Appropriation, Olawumi Jacob, said the process was inclusive and rigorous, ensuring that the final document reflects the development priorities of Kogi State.
Jacob explained that the exercise commenced with the presentation of the appropriation bill by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, after which the legislature opened the budget to public review.
“After the budget was laid before the House, we proceeded to the public hearing stage where civil society organisations and stakeholders from across the state came to scrutinise the budget lines,” he said.
He noted that the House subsequently conducted detailed budget defence sessions, during which commissioners and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) appeared before the committee to justify their proposed expenditures.
According to Jacob, lawmakers examined sector-by-sector allocations and made strategic adjustments to improve efficiency, promote accountability and ensure alignment with the state’s long-term development agenda.
“We thoroughly scrutinised the budget, reviewed the sectoral distribution of funds, and made necessary adjustments. The recommendations of civil society organisations were also considered and factored in during the technical sessions,” he stated.
Following deliberations, the House adopted the committee’s report, clearing the way for the budget’s passage into law.
“Once a budget is passed into law, it becomes binding. Nothing can be added or removed from it,” Jacob emphasised.
Describing the approved document as people-focused, the lawmaker said the 2026 appropriation, themed “Budget of Shared Prosperity for Sustainable Development,” is structured to deliver inclusive growth and tangible benefits to residents across the state.
“It is a win-win for the entire state. The budget is geared towards shared prosperity and sustainable development for all,” he added.
With the legislative process concluded, the passage of the 2026 budget sets the stage for its implementation across critical sectors of Kogi State’s economy in the coming fiscal year.
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