Governor Bassey Otu has presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill before the Cross Rivers State House of Assembly.
The appropriation bill with a total budget size of ₦780.59 billion, is themed the “Budget of Inclusive Growth.”
While presenting the budget, the governor said the budget reflects his shared vision to consolidate the gains of the People First agenda and ensure that every Cross Riverian feels the impact of government.
He said the budget was carefully prepared after wide consultations with civil society, the private sector, NGOs, and community stakeholders.
“For us, development is not just about figures, it’s about people. That’s why we will begin to measure progress not by GDP, but by how much we better our citizens live, learn, and thrive.
“In 2026, we are focusing on expanding access to education, healthcare, electricity for rural entrepreneurs, and social protection for the vulnerable.
Through the Cross River Social Investment Programme (CRSIP), we will empower our elderly, women, youth, and persons with disabilities in a transparent, non-political way.”
The ₦780.59 billion budget represents a 17% increase over 2025, with ₦519.6 billion for capital projects and ₦260.96 billion for recurrent expenditure.
It will strengthen our revenue base, drive human capital development, and secure a peaceful, prosperous Cross River State.
“We have made remarkable progress already, from ranking number one in Nigeria for routine immunization coverage (95%), to massive infrastructure projects like Adiabo–Ikoneto Road, Esuk Utan–Depot dual carriageway, and Yahe–Ebo–Wanakade Road.
“Our cities are brighter with solar streetlights, rural communities are getting power through mini-grids, our health facilities have been upgraded, and our new General Hospital in Ikom is nearing completion.
Every School of Nursing in the state is now fully accredited.
“We’re also moving forward with the Obudu Passenger and Cargo Airport and ongoing negotiations for the Bakassi Deep Seaport projects that will redefine Cross River’s place as a logistics and maritime hub in West Africa.
“We have implemented the national minimum wage, cleared gratuities for retirees, and digitized land administration to restore efficiency and trust in governance.
“This is our collective journey toward inclusive growth, one that leaves no Cross Riverian behind.” The governor concluded.