Cross River assembly approves N963bn supplementary budget

The Cross River House of Assembly has given its approval to an upward revision of the state's 2026 supplementary appropriation bill, increasing the total to N963 billion. This revised figure marks an increase of N1.45 billion from the previously allocated N961 billion, a rise of 0.15 percent.

The assembly's decision followed a thorough consideration of the report presented by the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation. Committee Chairman Cyril Omini, representing Yakurr II State Constituency, explained that the review was necessitated by additional financial requirements. He detailed that the adjustments are strategically designed to bolster infrastructure capitalization, meet counterpart funding obligations, address macroeconomic shifts, and support social interventions.

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These adjustments will promote prudent fiscal management, improve budget implementation and direct resources toward priority programmes and projects.

Omini further elaborated that unforeseen expenditures, the introduction of new policy initiatives, and improved revenue prospects were key factors driving the need for the supplementary budget. Enhanced employment opportunities and a commitment to improving public service delivery were also cited as significant reasons for the appropriation review.

"These adjustments will promote prudent fiscal management, improve budget implementation and direct resources toward priority programmes and projects," Omini stated. He emphasized that these measures align with Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ mantra, aiming to deliver greater value to the state's citizens. The assembly subsequently authorized the implementation of the supplementary budget in line with legal provisions, with the Speaker commending the committee for its diligence.

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These measures are aligned with Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ mantra and aimed at delivering greater value to citizens.