Ondo govt pledges realistic, people-centered 2026 budget

The Ondo State Government, on Friday, reiterates its commitment to inclusive governance, fiscal discipline, and people-centred development as the stakeholders’ engagement on the 2026 budget preparation concludes across the 18 local government areas of the state.

The state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who stated this in Akure, the state capital, affirmed that the administration has adopted a participatory and realistic approach to fiscal planning in line with the people’s aspirations and global best practices.

Represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Dr. Laolu Akindolire, the governor emphasised that lessons from the 2025 fiscal year, particularly the underperformance of capital expenditure due to non-disbursement of anticipated foreign funds, have informed a more streamlined and evidence-based 2026 budget.

He said, “When we looked at the 2025 capital budget, it was just too unrealistic. A capital budget of N433 billion—how do you fund it?

“That’s why we’re preparing a more realistic budget for 2026, targeting 70–80% performance by focusing only on revenues we are confident will come in.

“If additional support comes from development partners, it’s welcome – but it will no longer form the base of our planning.

“Our approach going forward is simple: realism, prioritisation, and performance. The 2026 budget will be built strictly on reliable revenue sources, targeting 70–80% implementation rate.

“Support from development partners is welcome, but it will no longer form the foundation of our fiscal strategy.”

He affirmed that the state government has embraced the following policy directions, which include robust investments in agriculture to ensure sustainable food production and create jobs and food security.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner revealed that the 2026 Budget would prioritise sectors that directly affect the people, especially in the face of reduced fiscal space.

He said: “Agriculture will be well funded. Food security is a top priority for this administration. We are also focusing on human capital development, security, and SME support as key drivers of economic growth.”

In addition, Akindolire explained that security remained non-negotiable, noting that the Amotekun Corps and other state security outfits would continue to receive robust funding.

“You can’t go about your business or send your children to school if the environment isn’t secure. Security will continue to be a major focus.

“Stealing will no longer be attractive in Ondo State. The systems we are putting in place will detect infractions before funds disappear. Our message is clear: transparency is the new order,” the Commissioner asserted.

The 2026 budget framework is also being structured in line with World Bank macroeconomic forecasts for Nigeria, which project GDP growth of 3.40%, inflation at 24%, and crude oil benchmark at $70 per barrel.

He restated the state government’s resolve to deliver a budget that is realistic, transparent, and people-focused, while ensuring that every sector critical to the welfare and prosperity of the people receives adequate attention.

He called on all citizens and stakeholders to remain engaged as the government translates the outcomes of this consultative process into actionable policies and programs for the 2026 fiscal year and beyond.

Speaking on inclusive budgeting and citizens’ engagement, he said the state government underscores that the budget is being democratised through broad-based consultations with civil society organisations, professional bodies, trade unions, youth and women groups, vulnerable populations, traditional institutions, and the private sector.

The Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Pastor Stephen Aworere, explained that the consultative process is designed to align government action with citizens’ priorities.

“This engagement has enabled government to listen directly to the people, understand their most pressing needs, and design practical solutions that reflect shared aspirations,” Aworere said.

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