By Endurance Ikanone
The Chairman of Sapele Local Government, Hon. Bright Abeke, has presented a proposed ₦13.07 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, promising to ease economic hardship and deliver visible development projects across the area.
The proposal, which was laid before the council’s Legislative Arm on Tuesday, represents an increase of about 9.98 per cent from the 2025 revised estimate of ₦11.77 billion. Tagged the “Budget of Reassurance,” the financial plan is designed to strengthen grassroots development while responding to the economic challenges faced by residents.
Speaking during the presentation, Abeke said his administration remains focused on ensuring that the difficulties experienced by the people are temporary, noting that the budget is structured to bring practical improvements to daily life.
A major highlight of the proposal is its strong emphasis on capital projects. Out of the total budget size, ₦7.00 billion has been earmarked for capital expenditure, slightly higher than the ₦6.39 billion allocated for recurrent spending. This, according to the chairman, reflects a deliberate shift toward projects that directly impact the people, such as roads, healthcare, and community infrastructure.
He explained that investing more in capital projects would help stimulate economic activity within the local government and provide long term benefits, especially in underserved communities.
To fund the budget, the Local Government is projecting revenue from several sources. Federal statutory allocation is expected to contribute ₦5.12 billion, while Value Added Tax (VAT) is projected at ₦1.65 billion. Internally generated revenue is estimated at ₦526.08 million, with additional support anticipated from state allocations and grants.
Abeke expressed confidence that these funding sources would be sufficient to support the implementation of the budget, especially with improved coordination and fiscal discipline.
The chairman also used the opportunity to review the council’s performance in 2025, stating that notable progress was made under the “Budget of Development.” He listed key projects executed within the period, including the construction of Okuovu Market, renovation of Oton Health Centre, and the installation of 13 electricity transformers across the 11 wards in the local government.
Other projects carried out include the construction of a two storey school building and perimeter fencing at the Reclamation ultra modern garage, beautification of the Sapele/Warri road corridor, and the grading of more than 20 roads in both rural and urban areas.
He added that the council also supported security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, as part of efforts to maintain peace and stability.
The budget presentation received the backing of the Legislative Arm, as it was formally adopted after a motion moved by Oyibu Efe and seconded by Christopher Ayomanor.
The Presiding Officer, Azu Samuel, commended the chairman for what he described as a well structured proposal and assured that the legislature would give it prompt consideration.
This is the second full budget to be presented by Abeke since he assumed office in July 2024. The proposal also outlines ₦2.89 billion for personnel costs, ₦2.58 billion for overhead expenses, and ₦925 million for pensions and gratuities, highlighting the administration’s responsibility to meet wage and welfare obligations.
While the higher allocation to capital projects has been welcomed as a step toward development, residents note that the council’s heavy reliance on federal allocations may pose sustainability concerns. Many residents are expected to closely watch how effectively the budget is implemented, particularly in translating plans into real improvements in infrastructure and public services.
As the document moves through the legislative process, expectations remain high that the “Budget of Reassurance” will live up to its name by delivering both relief and measurable progress to the people of Sapele.
