Bauchi Governor Presents ₦878.2 Billion 2026 Budget: A Blueprint for Consolidation and Sustainability
In a landmark move that underscores Bauchi State’s commitment to growth and transparency, Governor Sen. Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly. Tagged the “Budget of Consolidation and Sustainability”, the proposal sets the tone for a new fiscal year focused on strengthening development gains while addressing critical needs.
The Numbers That Matter
The governor unveiled a budget size of ₦878.2 billion, representing a 41% increase from the 2025 fiscal year.
Recurrent Expenditure: ₦310.7 billion (35%)
Capital Expenditure: ₦567.5 billion (65%)
This bold allocation reflects Bauchi’s determination to channel resources into infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other developmental projects that directly impact citizens’ lives.
Building on 2025 Achievements
Governor Mohammed highlighted that as of September 2025, the state had achieved 79.1% implementation of the current budget, with projections to reach 85% performance by year-end. This track record, he noted, provides confidence that the 2026 budget will be executed effectively.
Anchored on Realistic Assumptions
The budget is guided by the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and complies with the State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2009. Key assumptions include:
Oil production at 1.6 million barrels/day
Benchmark oil price of $68 per barrel
Exchange rate of ₦1,440 to the US dollar
These figures, alongside improved internally generated revenue, are expected to sustain Bauchi’s fiscal stability.
Strategic Priorities
Governor Mohammed emphasized that new projects will only be introduced based on critical needs and immediate impact. Priority areas include:
Strengthening the health sector
Implementing the contributory pension scheme
Honoring debt obligations
Expanding public-private partnerships
Enhancing transparency in financial reporting
Legislative Backing
Receiving the proposal, Speaker Rt. Hon. Suleiman Abubakar commended the governor’s foresight and timely presentation. He described the budget as “a budget of the people, by the people”, stressing that it translates public hopes into concrete funding decisions. Lawmakers pledged to diligently review and provide oversight to ensure resources are effectively deployed under the My Bauchi Project framework.
Why This Budget Matters
The 2026 budget is more than figures on paper — it is a roadmap for inclusive growth. With 65% dedicated to capital projects, Bauchi is positioning itself to deliver better roads, affordable healthcare, quality education, and sustainable employment opportunities. It reflects a participatory governance style that continues to build trust between the government and its people.
