Kogi Assembly Commits to Speedy, Transparent Review of 2026 Budget as Gov. Ododo Presents Estimates
Bashir Opaluwa Idris
The Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Yusuf Aliyu, has reaffirmed the readiness of the 8th Assembly to give accelerated but thorough consideration to the 2026 Budget Estimates presented by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Speaking during the formal presentation of the Appropriation Bill before the assembly, the Speaker described the event as a significant milestone in the state’s democratic journey, highlighting it as evidence of transparency, accountability and the strong partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.
Aliyu commended the governor’s administration for its commitment to fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, security and human capital investment, noting that sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, road infrastructure and public financial management have witnessed remarkable progress under his leadership.
According to him, the Ododo administration has eased the impact of prevailing economic challenges through the provision of essential social services, resulting in renewed confidence and stability across Kogi State.
The Speaker also applauded the governor for granting financial and administrative autonomy to the House of Assembly, describing the move as a clear demonstration of respect for the independence of the legislature, and a step that has strengthened accountability and transparency.
However, Aliyu drew attention to critical areas requiring urgent intervention to improve the efficiency of legislative operations.
He noted that Kogi State is among only two states yet to fully computerize its legislative processes, stressing the need for immediate digital transformation to enhance documentation, research and service delivery.
The Speaker further revealed that a recent needs assessment exposed a shortage of qualified personnel within the Assembly.
He appealed for the recruitment of additional staff to meet the minimum requirement of 200 workers, as well as the provision of staff buses to ease transportation challenges faced by workers commuting to the Assembly complex.
Aliyu also expressed personal gratitude to Governor Ododo for visiting him during a recent health challenge, describing the gesture as one of compassion, humility and genuine concern.
As the House prepares to begin deliberations on the 2026 budget, the Speaker called on political heads and accounting officers of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to honour invitations from the Assembly’s standing committees for proper budget defence and appraisal.
He assured the governor and the people of Kogi State that the House would approach the budget review process with diligence, transparency and the interest of citizens at heart.