Gov Otu Presents N987.8bn 2027 Budget

Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu presented a proposed budget of N987.8 billion for the 2027 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly. Titled the ‘Budget of Consolidation and Renewed Hope,’ the budget aims to consolidate past achievements while setting the stage for future growth and development. Otu emphasized his administration's commitment to sustainable development, fiscal discipline, and inclusive economic growth.

The budget's success depends on prudent resource management, accountability, and disciplined public expenditure. The proposed budget represents a 2.57 per cent increase over the 2026 budget, with capital expenditure accounting for 71.72 per cent of the total provision. Otu explained that the budget would sustain ongoing programs while opening new pathways for investment, employment creation, and improved public services.

The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the state's debt profile, stating that Cross River remained among the few states that had not taken on new loans since 2023. He attributed the existing debt burden to obligations inherited from previous administrations. The governor highlighted achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture, including the construction of over 608 kilometers of interconnected roads, expansion of healthcare facilities, and the distribution of fertilizers and seedlings to farmers.

He also outlined plans to improve literacy rates and strengthen agricultural production to become Nigeria's leading cocoa and oil-palm-producing state.