Cross River Assembly Approves N963 Billion Extra Budget

The Cross River House of Assembly has approved an increase in the 2026 supplementary budget to N963 billion.

This new amount is N1.45 billion more than the previous N961 billion. This is a small rise of 0.15 percent.

The assembly made this decision after looking at the report from the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation during a meeting on Thursday.

Cyril Omini, the committee chairman and representative of Yakurr II State Constituency, presented the report. He said the review was needed to meet extra financial needs.

Mr Omini explained that the change aims to meet goals like improving infrastructure, funding partnerships, adjusting the economy, and supporting social programs.

He mentioned that unexpected expenses, new policies, and better revenue forecasts were reasons for the extra budget.

The lawmaker also pointed out that more job opportunities and better public services were additional reasons for the budget revision.

"These adjustments will promote smart money management, improve budget execution, and direct funds to important programs and projects.

"These steps follow Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ approach, aiming to give more value to the people,” he said.

The house then approved the implementation of the new budget as required by law.

Speaker Elvert Ayambem praised the committee for their thorough work.

Hillary Bisong, the Chief Whip and representative of Boki II State Constituency, moved the motion for the final reading of the bill. Linus Etim, who represents Akamkpa II State Constituency, supported the motion.