Governor Hope Uzodimma's recent budget proposal for Imo State has garnered attention, with a whopping 83.4% of the ₦1.4 trillion budget allocated to capital expenditure, signaling his administration's focus on infrastructure development .
Speaking to journalists in Owerri, former Executive Chairman of Owerri West LGA and Former Special Adviser to Imo Government, Hon. Chidi Ordu Anthony,popularly known as Madoka, described it as a significant investment in capital projects that will surely boost economic growth, improve living standards, and enhance the state's competitiveness.
According to him is impressed to see sectors benefiting from this allocation to include health, with ₦698.163 billion, works and infrastructure, with ₦87.727 billion, and power, with ₦190.451 billion
Madoka said Uzodimma's emphasis on capital expenditure reflects his commitment to transforming Imo State's economy and providing essential services to its citizens. The budget, dubbed "Budget of Economic Breakthrough," aims to consolidate progress in road construction, healthcare, education, and security.
The former Executive Chairman of Owerri West LGA said the governor's focus on infrastructure development will surely attract investors, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity.
His words "the Light Up Imo Project, Orashi Free Trade Zone, and expansion of the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport are some of the flagship initiatives driving this growth'
Imo State's budget represents a 78% increase from the previous year, demonstrating Uzodimma's ambitious plans for the state. The allocation to education, ₦60.623 billion, and agriculture, ₦20.506 billion, highlights the administration's commitment to human capital development and food security.
The budget's focus on recurrent expenditure, ₦238.499 billion, ensures timely payment of salaries and allowances, supporting the state's workforce and economy. Uzodimma's administration has made notable progress in security, with improved infrastructure and services.
The Imo State House of Assembly has expressed support for the budget, praising Uzodimma's leadership and vision. The Speaker, Chike Olemgbe, commended the governor's efforts to strengthen security and improve infrastructure.
Uzodimma's budget proposal has been hailed as a roadmap to sustained economic breakthroughs, with Madoka describing it as ambitious and people-oriented.
He explained that the administration's commitment to transparency and accountability is expected to enhance trust and confidence in the budget's implementation
The budget's emphasis on social protection programs, with ₦100 million allocated to each ward, aims to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods. This initiative is expected to benefit vulnerable groups, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons .
The former special adviser said; Imo State's 2026 budget is a testament to Uzodimma's dedication to transforming the state. With a focus on capital expenditure, the administration is poised to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens
The success of this budget hinges on effective implementation, transparency, and accountability. As Imo State embarks on this ambitious journey, stakeholders and citizens alike are eager to see the tangible benefits of this investment
Madoka expresses conviction that Uzodimma's administration has set a bold precedent for Imo State's development, and the 2026 budget will shape the state's future.