Uzodimma Signs Imo’s 2026 Budget Of N1.4Tr Into Law

By Jennifer John

On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State officially gave his assent to the ₦1.4 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill, referred to as the Budget of Economic Breakthrough.

The signing ceremony took place at the New Government House in Eziachi, Orlu Local Government Area.

During the event, the Governor emphasized that this act was a significant fulfillment of the constitutional principle of checks and balances, highlighting that the initial budget estimates presented to the Imo State House of Assembly had been transformed into law through the proper legislative process.

“This is the essence of democracy,” the Governor remarked, “the seamless operation of checks and balances for the collective benefit of our citizens.”

Governor Uzodimma expressed his satisfaction that the State was concluding the year 2025 on a strong and positive note, describing the budget as the final link between the administration’s strategic planning and the anticipated economic prosperity for Imo State.

He extended his commendations to the leadership and members of the Imo State House of Assembly for their diligence, commitment, and cooperation, noting that lawmakers had worked tirelessly, often overnight, to ensure the swift passage of the bill.

“I am confident that this budget underwent meticulous scrutiny,” he stated. “Much of what we have accomplished as a government would not have been feasible without the collaboration of the House of Assembly.”

Characterizing the budget as visionary and ambitious, the Governor elaborated that the ₦1.4 trillion appropriation serves as a clear roadmap for development, emphasizing that revenue generation should precede expenditure.

“We must first secure the funds before allocating them,” he stated, adding that all ongoing and critical projects throughout the State would be completed before the conclusion of the administration, with no intention of leaving any project unfinished.

Addressing criticisms regarding investments in roads classified as federal roads, the Governor asserted that jurisdiction should not supersede the impact on individuals.

“A mother heading to the market or a young person going to work does not concern themselves with road ownership,” he stated. “They are residents of Imo State. What matters is the usage of the road.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in establishing policies that have enabled states to enhance revenue generation, emphasizing that accountability and transparency in the utilization of public funds remain paramount.

Upon signing the budget into law on December 31, 2025, the Governor reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Imo State, declaring, “We possess the resources, the plan, the vision, and the courage.”

Earlier, during the presentation of the bill for assent, the Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, representing the Speaker, stated that the Legislature and the Executive were united by a shared objective of advancing Imo State towards greater prosperity.

“The separation of powers does not imply a separation of purpose,” the Deputy Speaker remarked, assuring the Governor of an enhanced, effective, and result-oriented oversight function in the upcoming year.

Drawing a parallel with Pentecostal church traditions, he described the budget theme as a prophetic declaration, capable of inspiring hope and direction, akin to annual church slogans.

“This is not merely a budget theme,” he stated. “It reflects unity of purpose, faith in leadership, and confidence in an administration focused on the welfare of its citizens.”

He expressed optimism that by the end of 2026, Imo State would be filled with testimonies of economic growth, infrastructural development, and expanded opportunities stemming from the budget’s implementation.

The event concluded with prayers and expressions of gratitude, as government officials, lawmakers, and stakeholders hailed the budget as a pivotal step towards sustained economic stability and prosperity in Imo State.