Diri Presents ₦998.37 Billion 2026 Budget to Bayelsa Assembly, Promises Growth and Stability.
Governor Douye Diri on Thursday presented a 2026 budget of ₦998.37 billion to the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, signalling what he called a renewed push for growth and stability in the state. The figure, contained in documents obtained from Punch, reflects a significant jump from last year’s ₦689.44 billion budget, an increase of nearly 45 per cent. The governor told lawmakers that the budget, titled “Budget of Growth and Stability," was designed to consolidate the achievements of his administration and accelerate development across key sectors. “This budget is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to the prosperity and welfare of our people,” he said. “Our focus remains on deepening infrastructure, improving education, and sustaining peace and security in the state.” According to reports by Punch, personnel cost is estimated at ₦69.12 billion, about 14.4 per cent of the total spending plan, while overhead cost stands at ₦54.09 billion. These allocations, Diri noted, are part of efforts to maintain a lean wage structure while freeing resources for capital investment. Yet, beyond the figures lies a pressing question of whether or not Bayelsa’s revenue base sustains such an ambitious plan? The 2026 proposal depends heavily on statutory allocations and internally generated revenue, leaving observers to wonder how the state intends to balance its books in the face of rising economic uncertainties. Analysts believe the near ₦1 trillion projection signals confidence in increased oil receipts and federal inflows, but it also exposes the state to risks if those expectations fall short. The governor did not immediately specify the proportion of capital to recurrent expenditure, though his emphasis on infrastructure suggests a tilt toward development projects. For context, Bayelsa’s 2025 budget of ₦689 billion was largely driven by oil linked revenue and a modest IGR contribution. The new proposal, therefore, demands a level of fiscal discipline and transparency that matches its ambition. “We will continue to ensure accountability and prudence in the management of public funds,” Diri assured. “Our administration remains focused on delivering value for every naira spent.” Still, questions linger over implementation. How much of the ₦998 billion will reach the ground in the form of schools, roads, hospitals, and jobs? How will the government navigate potential revenue shortfalls? For Bayelsa, the challenge is not just to announce big numbers but to make them count in the daily lives of its people.
| 2025-11-13 20:27:16