How Gov Mba's 2026 Budget will renew momentum in Enugu

By Chukwuemeka Odo

Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah presented to the Enugu State House of Assembly a total budget estimate of ₦1.62 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year. 

This represents an impressive 65% increase from the 2025 budget, reflecting the administration’s ambition to fast-track development across all sectors of the state. 

The budget aptly tagged “The Budget of Renewed Momentum,” is strategically designed to consolidate the progress already made in various ongoing infrastructure projects while introducing new initiatives that will further propel the state toward sustainable growth.

A major highlight of the budget is the administration’s firm commitment to education as a catalyst for long-term development. Recognizing the transformative power of education on the life of every citizen, the government allocated 32.27% of the entire budget to the education sector. This is one of the highest education-sector allocations in the country and speaks strongly to Dr. Mbah’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy. With this substantial investment, the Smart Schools; which are already nearing completion; are expected to be fully operational by 2026. Their completion will mark a major milestone in repositioning Enugu State as a regional hub for high-quality, technology-enhanced learning. Overall, this allocation signals a new era of educational advancement, improved learning outcomes, and expanded opportunities for children and youths across the state.

The 2026 budget also makes significant provision for improving tourism and transportation; two sectors with enormous potential for economic diversification. To strengthen Enugu’s tourism appeal and expand the state’s air transport capacity, the government plans to acquire 14 additional aircraft, which will complement the existing fleet of six. This bold move is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the state-owned airline operations, improve regional connectivity, and open new employment opportunities for the people of Enugu State. It also aligns with the government’s broader vision to position Enugu as a leading destination for business travel, leisure tourism, and investment.

One of the most notable reforms introduced by Dr. Mbah is the shift to a result-based budgeting system. Under this model, funding is strictly directed to programmes and projects that have measurable outcomes, clear timelines, and well-defined goals. This ensures value for money, improves transparency, and eliminates wastage; marking a sharp departure from the traditional input-based budgeting system. The impact of this reform is already evident: for the first time in the state’s history, budget performance has reached 83%, demonstrating a remarkable improvement in planning, execution, and monitoring across all ministries and agencies.

Infrastructure development remains a central pillar of the 2026 budget. The government has earmarked funds for the construction of 1,200 additional rural roads, a landmark investment that will improve connectivity between communities, stimulate agricultural activities, and open up new economic corridors. This massive road expansion programme reinforces Enugu State’s strategic preparation to assume its leadership position in tourism and rural development within Nigeria. Better roads will make tourist sites more accessible, enhance trade, and improve the overall quality of life for rural dwellers.

Another critical component of the budget is the allocation of ₦20 billion for gratuities, representing a compassionate departure from past practices where many retirees were owed for years, with some passing away before receiving their entitlements. This allocation is a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to restoring dignity, fairness, and justice to senior citizens who have served the state with dedication. It is also expected to rebuild trust in the public service system and provide economic relief to thousands of retired workers and their families.

In summary, the 2026 budget presented by Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is a visionary and forward-looking financial plan that prioritizes human capital development, infrastructure expansion, accountability, and economic transformation. With its significant investments in education, transportation, tourism, rural development, and social welfare, the budget sets the stage for a more prosperous, competitive, and inclusive Enugu State.