Alltimepost.com Sincerity of Purpose
By Idahosa Musa
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has signed the ₦939 billion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, officially giving legal backing to the state’s fiscal plan for the year, tagged the “Budget of Hope and Growth.”
The bill, which was earlier passed by the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), was assented to at the Government House, Benin City, in the presence of the Speaker and members of the legislature.
Governor Okpebholo described the budget as a strategic instrument designed to accelerate development and improve the living standards of Edo people, noting that it reflects his administration’s commitment to purposeful governance.
He commended the Speaker and members of the House for their diligence and speed in considering and passing the bill, describing their action as a demonstration of synergy between the executive and legislative arms of government.
“I want to thank the members of the Edo State House of Assembly and the Speaker for doing a good job.
“You were proactive and thorough, and I believe this Budget of Hope and Growth will move Edo State to greater heights,” the governor said.
Earlier, Speaker of the House, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, who led the lawmakers to the signing ceremony, praised Governor Okpebholo for what he described as his bold developmental strides and people-focused leadership style.
Agbebaku noted that critical sectors of the Edo economy, particularly agriculture and infrastructure, received significant attention in the 2026 budget, stressing that these sectors are vital to food security, job creation and sustainable development.
According to him, the Okpebholo-led administration has set a new standard in the prudent utilization of public resources, adding that landmark projects such as the construction of the first and second flyover bridges in the state would remain lasting legacies.
“History is being made by this administration. The governor is passionate about developing Edo State and ensuring that the people live a more comfortable and better life,” the Speaker said.
He expressed confidence that the 2026 budget would record optimal performance, assuring that funds appropriated by the House would be effectively deployed for the benefit of Edo people.
Agbebaku further affirmed that resources approved in previous budgets had been judiciously utilized, insisting that the people of the state were already feeling the positive impact of the administration’s governance.
He formally presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the governor for assent, marking another milestone in Edo State’s quest for growth, stability and inclusive development.
