Politics

Osun Assembly Approves N705bn 2026 Budget for Second Reading

The Osun State House of Assembly has passed the state’s N705 billion 2026 Draft Appropriation Bill for its second reading. The bill was considered on Monday after the policy thrust was read by Mr Adewumi Babajide, the House Majority Leader. The policy outlines the government’s plans and the reasons for the proposed budget.

Babajide explained that the increased budget size is intended to support ongoing infrastructure projects and other important initiatives in the state. He said the government wants to ensure that development continues in a way that benefits all citizens. Members of the Assembly agreed, noting that the bill will drive economic and infrastructural growth in Osun.

The Assembly members emphasized the need for the bill to be passed quickly so that the state can start implementing critical projects without delay. They said timely approval is important for the proper planning and execution of development programmes. The Assembly highlighted that the budget aligns with the state’s long-term goals for growth and citizen welfare.

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Speaker Adewale Egbedun supported the contributions of his colleagues and assured that the bill would receive proper attention. He confirmed that, according to House rules, the bill will be sent to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation for detailed scrutiny. The committee will review the budget carefully to ensure it meets the needs of the state.

Egbedun instructed the committee to create a timetable for government ministries, departments, and agencies to defend their proposed budget allocations. The budget defence sessions are scheduled to run from November 24 to December 4, giving the lawmakers time to ask questions and evaluate spending plans.

Governor Ademola Adeleke had presented the N705 billion budget to the Assembly on November 13. He described the budget as the “Budget of Economic Transformation,” showing his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of all residents in Osun State. He said the budget is designed to strengthen economic growth and deliver essential services.

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According to Adeleke, the budget includes N317 billion for recurrent expenditure, which covers personnel costs of N135 billion and overhead costs of N182 billion, making up 45 per cent of the total budget. The capital expenditure is N388 billion, representing 55 per cent of the budget, and is aimed at funding major infrastructure and development projects across the state.

The Assembly’s approval of the bill for second reading is an important step toward implementation. Once the budget is fully passed, it will support the government’s plans for economic growth, infrastructure development, and social services, ensuring that citizens benefit from a stronger and more developed Osun State.

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