By Peter Jatau
— Emphasis on Roads, Infrastructure as Capital Spending Takes 70%
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, on Monday presented a ₦650.6 billion budget estimate for the 2026 fiscal year to the Taraba State House of Assembly, reaffirming his administration’s focus on infrastructure, security, and human capital development.
The proposed budget, titled “Budget of Development We Can See,” amounts to ₦650,631,700,000, with a dominant share allocated to capital projects. Presenting the Appropriation Bill on the floor of the Assembly in Jalingo, Governor Kefas explained that the budget was designed to fast-track visible development across the state.
According to him, Capital Expenditure is projected at ₦457,741,601,414—representing 70.36% of the total budget—while Recurrent Expenditure stands at ₦192,890,098,586, accounting for 29.64%.
Kefas said the spending plan would prioritize critical sectors including road construction, transportation, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, and economic empowerment. He added that the 2026 estimates were guided by his administration’s long-term vision of transforming Taraba into an economically vibrant and socially stable state.
“This is a budget of tangible, measurable progress,” the Governor said. “Our focus is simple: to accelerate infrastructural development and to create economic opportunities that our people can see, feel, and benefit from.”
Background
Governor Kefas, who assumed office in May 2023, has repeatedly emphasized infrastructure rebuilding as a cornerstone of his administration. His previous budgets reflected similar priorities, with massive investments channeled into road networks, school upgrades, health facilities, and security interventions.
The state, known for its large landmass and challenging terrain, has struggled with decades of infrastructural deficits, recurring communal clashes, and limited industrial activity. Analysts note that high capital spending aligns with the administration’s efforts to open rural communities, boost agricultural productivity, attract investors, and improve internal revenue.
The 2026 budget comes at a time when Taraba is intensifying reforms in land administration, taxation, mining regulation, and public service efficiency. The state government has also launched multiple social intervention programmes targeted at youth empowerment, micro-businesses, and education support.
Assembly Promises Quick Passage
Responding to the presentation, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, expressed the Assembly’s readiness to give the budget accelerated consideration.
He commended Governor Kefas for maintaining transparency and sustaining the state’s January–December budget cycle.
“The House will ensure that this Appropriation Bill receives timely hearing and passage,” Bonzena assured. “We are committed to supporting the Governor’s drive for development and ensuring that Taraba continues on the path of progress.”
The Governor was accompanied to the Assembly by senior government officials, political appointees, and stakeholders from within and outside the state.
The 2026 Appropriation Bill will now undergo legislative scrutiny before passage into law.
Additional source from Kefas Movement
