Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has presented a ₦1.031 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, describing it as a “Budget of Consolidation” focused on sustaining development gains and addressing emerging socio-economic challenges.
Unveiling the proposal at the Assembly Chamber in Minna, the governor said the budget allocates over ₦270 billion (26.19 per cent) to recurrent expenditure, while more than ₦761 billion (73.81 per cent) is set aside for capital projects. Funding is expected from statutory allocations, VAT, internally generated revenue, FAAC receipts, capital inflows, grants, and loans.
Governor Bago explained that the 2026 budget is designed to build on previous achievements while responding to the state’s current development needs amid global economic uncertainties.
He noted that the economic sector received the largest allocation of over ₦510 billion, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on job creation, agricultural transformation, and sustainable economic growth. The transportation sector received the smallest allocation, slightly above ₦1 billion.
Key priority areas outlined for the fiscal year include wealth and job creation, agricultural reform, improved healthcare delivery, and the consolidation of road infrastructure. Other focus areas include the completion of inherited water and power projects, enhanced education, improved revenue generation, digital transformation of state-owned media, peace and security consolidation, and strategic development partnerships.
The governor said the budget is anchored on fiscal discipline, strategic investments, and targeted interventions aimed at expanding economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for residents. He also reviewed the achievements of the 2025 fiscal year, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Governor Bago commended the Speaker and members of the 10th State House of Assembly for their cooperation, urging the lawmakers to give the budget speedy consideration and passage to fast-track development across the state. He also appealed to Niger residents to support his vision of building a secure, green, and prosperous “New Niger.”
In his response, Speaker of the House, AbdulMalik Sarkin-Daji, praised the cordial relationship between the executive and legislative arms and commended the governor’s respect for due process and constitutional principles. He assured that the Assembly would expedite the passage of the budget and remain committed to strengthening governance and development in the state.
