ABIA DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE DEFENDS 2026 BUDGET, SEEKS INCREASED FUNDING

ABIA DEPUTY GOVERNOR’S OFFICE DEFENDS 2026 BUDGET, SEEKS INCREASED FUNDING

The Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State has reiterated its dedication to transparency, accountability, and efficient resource management as it defended its 2026 budget proposal before the Ministry of Budget and Planning.

Representing Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu at the session, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Barrister Chijioke Nwankwo, described the proposed budget as a “Budget of Consolidation,” aimed at building on the administration’s achievements and accelerating socio-economic growth.

According to Barr. Nwankwo, the 2026 fiscal plan focuses on enhancing human capital development, expanding agricultural initiatives, fostering peace, and driving people-centered policies. He emphasized the constitutional role of the Deputy Governor’s Office in supporting the broader governance agenda of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti.

Reviewing the performance of the Office in 2025, Nwankwo noted the Deputy Governor’s active role in peace-building, reconciliation efforts, and agricultural revitalization—core pillars of the current administration.

Calling for an upward review of the budget allocation, he argued that increased funding would bolster operational efficiency and improve service delivery across critical areas.

In his response, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Hon. Kingsley Anosike, commended the Deputy Governor’s Office for aligning its proposals with the administration’s development goals. He emphasized the importance of the budget defence process in shaping spending priorities, especially in light of limited fiscal resources.

Hon. Anosike urged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to tailor their requests realistically, stressing that the 2026 budget would consolidate the gains made over the past year.

Also present at the session were the Director of Administration, Rev. Sister Iheme Nkemdirichukwu; Director of Finance, Mr. Nmecha Udo; and other key finance officers.