The Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has commended Gov Alex Chioma Otti for presenting what he described as one of the most courageous and development-driven budgets in Abia’s recent history.
He said the 2026 Appropriation Bill, titled the Budget of Acceleration and New Possibilities, reflects discipline, clarity of purpose and an unwavering commitment to the prosperity of Abia State.
Recall that Otti presented the N1.016 trillion budget estimate to the Abia State House of Assembly on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. The fiscal plan allocates a massive N811.8 billion to capital expenditure, representing an unprecedented 80 percent of the entire budget, while N204.4 billion is set aside for recurrent expenditure, accounting for 20 percent.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Hon. Aguocha said the budget demonstrates a rare political will prioritising development over patronage and the future over temporary convenience.
According to him, “Gov Alex Otti has again shown leadership defined by courage and discipline. This budget is not just a financial document, it is a clear demonstration of a government that has chosen to invest in the prosperity of Abia rather than in short-term political calculations. It reflects a seriousness, consistency and commitment that every progressive-minded citizen must applaud.”
Aguocha described the 80 percent capital allocation as a bold policy statement that sets Abia apart from many states still trapped in the cycle of heavy recurrent spending and weak infrastructural investments.
“The governor’s decision to prioritise capital projects at this scale is uncommon,” he said. “It tells us that Abia is finally being positioned for measurable growth. Roads, schools, healthcare, transportation and energy infrastructure are the foundation of a resilient economy. This budget places those pillars at the centre of our development journey.”
He further praised the strategic allocations to education and health, which together account for 35 percent of the budget. With N203.2 billion dedicated to education and N149.7 billion to the health sector, Aguocha said the governor is laying a strong foundation for a healthier and more educated population.
“For the first time in decades, education and health are receiving the attention they deserve,” he noted. “The plan to build seventeen new model schools, establish three technical colleges, upgrade facilities in over one hundred schools and strengthen tertiary institutions is transformational. The health allocations, including upgrades of seven general hospitals and twenty-three PHCs, will save lives, especially in rural communities.”
Hon. Aguocha also commended the governor for linking the 2026 budget to the achievements recorded in the outgoing fiscal year. He said the completion of over six hundred kilometres of roads, restoration of hospitals, doubling of school enrolment, recruitment of over five thousand teachers and expansion of the state health insurance scheme are clear indicators that past budgets have been effectively implemented.
“These achievements are not theoretical,” he said. “They are visible. They give credibility to the 2026 budget projections and reassure Abians that the governor is not promising what he cannot deliver.”
The federal lawmaker, who has consistently advocated for infrastructure development in Ikwuano and Umuahia, expressed optimism that the N169.3 billion allocated to road construction, rehabilitation and maintenance would further open up communities across his constituency and boost agricultural and commercial activities.
“I am particularly hopeful about the infrastructure component,” he stated. “Communities in Ikwuano and Umuahia depend heavily on road networks for farming, trade and mobility. With this level of investment, I am confident that more of our roads will be addressed in 2026, reducing transportation costs and stimulating economic activity.”
Aguocha also applauded the governor’s insistence that all recurrent expenses in 2026 would be funded exclusively from internally generated revenue, with concessional loans reserved strictly for capital projects.
“This is fiscal discipline at its best,” he said. “Borrowing for consumption is irresponsible. Borrowing for infrastructure is an investment. The governor’s approach reassures every prudent observer that Abia is being managed with integrity and accountability.”
He urged the Abia State House of Assembly to give the budget accelerated consideration, noting that its swift passage would enable early commencement of key developmental projects.
“I fully support this budget, It is people-centred, future-focused and development-oriented. The House of Assembly should give it the urgent attention it deserves so that implementation can begin without delay,” Aguocha affirmed.
The federal lawmaker concluded by calling on Abians to continue supporting the administration as the state moves into what he described as a “new era of possibilities.”
“With the direction we are heading, there is no doubt that Abia’s best years are emerging,” he said.
“This budget is another testament to a government that is determined to build a prosperous, equitable and modern state for all.”
0 Comments