By Stella Edoka
The Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly, Aliyu Umar Yusuf, says the legislature will ensure that the 2026 budget estimate of over ₦820 billion truly reflects the needs of the people.
He made the remarks during the formal presentation of the 2026 budget by the state governor,Alhaji Usman Ododo at the Assembly complex in Lokoja.
The speaker commended the Governor’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and the ongoing investments in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education, agriculture, and human capital development.
He noted that these efforts have helped restore public confidence and enhance stability across the state.
Reaffirming the Assembly’s dedication to maintaining a productive relationship with the Executive, the speaker emphasized that their collaboration would continue to be guided by transparency, accountability, and democratic principles.
Yusuf also applauded Governor Ododo for granting full legislative autonomy, describing it as a historic step that strengthens the Legislature’s independence and improves institutional efficiency.
However, the Speaker highlighted critical areas requiring urgent attention, including the need to fully digitalize legislative operations, an upgrade he said the state was still lagging behind compared to most states.
Yusuf who further raised concerns about inadequate specialized personnel and appealed for staffing to be increased to at least 200, also requested provision of staff buses to ease transportation challenges faced by Assembly workers.
The Speaker urged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to actively participate in the upcoming budget defence sessions to ensure seamless and timely legislative processing.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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