In a move to propel sustainable development and inclusive governance, Cross River State has presented a N780 billion budget proposal for 2026, drawing strong emphasis on citizen participation and infrastructure investment.
At a well‐attended public forum, Mr. Otu Ita, Special Adviser on Budget Monitoring and Evaluation, underlined that this budget is designed to be people-driven, not just government-led. He affirmed that the state government will lean heavily on community input and feedback to shape priorities, fostering accountability and alignment with citizens’ real needs.
Mr. Ita described the consultative process as a “testimony” to Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to listening and delivering, adding that the administration aims to make the 2026 budget “inclusive, transparent, and sustainable.”
Key sectors earmarked for funding include infrastructure, education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and women’s welfare. According to the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Okon Owuna, community voices from across all local government areas will be pivotal in shaping fiscal allocations that reflect grassroots challenges and aspirations.
Traditional rulers also urged greater collaboration, particularly in improving the condition of primary schools. They appealed for enhanced investment in teacher training, facility rehabilitation, and curriculum support, stressing that many rural schools are in serious disrepair.
Civil society groups, market women, youth associations, persons with disabilities, and farmers used the platform to highlight pressing local issues—ranging from healthcare and road access to education funding and economic inclusion.
The Southern senatorial district forum was the latest in a series of zonal budget engagements held across Cross River, part of an effort to ensure all regions are represented and no voice is ignored.
Overall, the N780 billion 2026 budget proposal seeks to blend robust infrastructure spending with social development initiatives, all framed within a participatory governance model.
Governor Otu and his team are clearly signalling their intent: to build a government that listens, engages, and acts, not just for the people, but with the people.
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