Bright Abeke Presents “Budget of Reassurance” for 2026

Bright Abeke Presents “Budget of Reassurance” for 2026

The Executive Chairman of Sapele Local Government Council, Bright Afure Abeke, on Tuesday presented a proposed ₦13.07 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, tagged “Budget of Reassurance,” aimed at easing hardship and sustaining development across the council area.

Presenting the estimates before the Sapele Legislative Arm, Abeke said the proposal reflects his administration’s commitment to delivering visible projects and restoring public confidence amid economic challenges.

The 2026 budget stands at ₦13,074,216,833.97, representing a 9.98 percent increase from the ₦11.77 billion revised estimate for 2025.

A breakdown shows ₦6.39 billion allocated for recurrent expenditure, while ₦7.00 billion is earmarked for capital projects, indicating a stronger focus on infrastructure and development initiatives.

Abeke said the capital-heavy structure of the budget aligns with the council’s goal of executing more people-oriented projects in the coming year.

On revenue projections, the chairman disclosed that the council expects over ₦5.12 billion from federal statutory allocation, ₦1.65 billion from Value Added Tax, and ₦526.08 million from internally generated revenue.

He noted that improved inflows from federal and state allocations would provide the financial backing needed to implement the budget effectively.

“We are committed to reassuring the electorate that any form of hardship experienced by the masses will be short-lived,” Abeke told lawmakers.

The chairman highlighted that personnel costs would gulp ₦2.89 billion, while overhead costs are projected at ₦2.58 billion, with ₦924.98 million set aside for pensions and gratuities.

Reviewing the 2025 budget performance, Abeke listed key projects completed, including the construction of Okuovu Market, renovation of Oton Health Centre, installation of electricity transformers across wards, and grading of rural and urban roads.

He also cited investments in security infrastructure, including support for the Nigerian Army and efforts to curb cultism, kidnapping, and other crimes.

According to him, the achievements demonstrate “practical evidence of the dividends of democracy” in Sapele.

The budget presentation was followed by legislative proceedings, with Oyibu Efe moving a motion for its adoption, which was seconded by Christopher Ayomanor.

Presiding over the session, Azu Samuel commended the executive for the proposal and urged members to give it expeditious consideration

The “Budget of Reassurance” marks the second fiscal plan presented by Abeke since assuming office in July 2024, under the policy direction of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda.

Local government budgets in Nigeria are largely funded through federal allocations, VAT proceeds, and internally generated revenue, with increasing pressure on councils to improve service delivery.

Analysts say the higher capital allocation could boost infrastructure development and local economic activity if fully implemented.

However, concerns remain about revenue sustainability and execution, particularly given reliance on federal allocations.

Residents are expected to closely monitor how the proposed projects translate into tangible improvements in roads, healthcare, and basic services.

As the budget awaits legislative approval, stakeholders say its success will depend on transparent implementation and the council’s ability to deliver on its promise of economic relief and development.