The Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has presented a proposed N901.8 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, describing it as an ambitious yet realistic plan to “sustain the tempo of progress and development pathways” established under the current administration’s long-term vision.
Titled “Budget of Innovation & Transformation for Greater Jigawa II,” the proposal represents a 19.2% increase from the 2025 appropriation. According to the governor, the 2026 budget is anchored on the recently approved third edition of the Jigawa State Comprehensive Development Framework, which integrates the government’s 12-Point Agenda.
Speaking during the presentation, Governor Namadi said: “The 2026 proposed budget will build on the philosophy and policy thrust that informed the 2025 budget. Our focus remains on inclusive, human-centred economic growth, leveraging agriculture, SMEs, and critical infrastructure.”
Revenue and expenditure overview
The state plans to fund the budget through multiple sources, including statutory allocation (N96.3bn), VAT share (N102bn), other federal transfers (N223bn), internally generated revenue (N88.9bn), local government reimbursements, and capital receipts totaling N349bn.
On the expenditure side, capital spending dominates with N693.4bn, representing nearly 77% of the total budget—one of the largest capital allocations in recent years.
“This robust structure enables us to pursue our 12-Point Agenda, targeting investments in critical infrastructure, agricultural transformation, human capital development, and youth empowerment,” the governor said.
Major sector allocations
Roads and Transportation received the highest capital allocation of N186.37bn, covering over 60 regional roads, 20 township roads, and numerous feeder roads across the state’s 27 local government areas. New township roads in Hadejia, Basirka, Gantsa, Buji, Garun Gabas, and other towns will commence, alongside major regional routes such as Kafin Hausa–Gafasa–Jabo and Guri–Margadu.
Agriculture and Livestock Development follows with N74.98bn, supporting food security, mechanization, irrigation expansion, and livestock productivity. “These investments reflect our unwavering commitment to economic diversification and prosperity for all citizens of Jigawa State,” Namadi said.
The Power Sector is allocated N50.7bn for renewable energy projects, solarization of public institutions, and rural electrification.
Education and Health jointly account for over N310bn, more than one-third of the entire budget. Education alone receives over 26% of the total allocation, surpassing global benchmarks.
Other sectors receiving substantial funding include Water Supply (N25.4bn), Environment and Climate Resilience (N35.4bn), and Housing & Urban Development (N7.9bn).
Youth empowerment and social intervention
Youth empowerment and employment initiatives are allocated N12.7bn, covering skill centres, microcredit schemes, agro-processing equipment leasing, and women’s enterprise support.
“Our goal is to foster entrepreneurship and create massive opportunities for youth and women, forming a pathway to sustained prosperity,” the governor said.
Local government budgets
Local government councils will manage a consolidated budget of N288.8bn, with personnel costs of N68.8bn, overheads of N74.2bn, and capital expenditure of N137.6bn. Councils are expected to scale up mass housing, greenhouse and dry-season irrigation schemes, and support Tsangaya education.
Call for timely approval
Closing his address, Governor Namadi urged lawmakers to give the budget swift consideration: “While I urge you to painstakingly review the proposed budget, I also kindly request an expeditious approval and passage of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.”
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to participatory governance and accountability, ending with a prayer for peace and progress for the state and the nation.
“Long live Jigawa State; long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
