By Becky Usman

In a bid to ensure the smooth execution of Governor Umo Eno’s transformative ‘Arise Agenda’ in Akwa Ibom state, the State Executive Council (SEC) has approved a supplementary budget estimate of N150 billion. This budget will now be forwarded to the House of Assembly for consideration and approval.

The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Nsikan Linus Nkan, presented the memorandum for the supplementary estimates during the SEC meeting, presided over by Governor Eno at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.

The supplementary budget is designed to align financial estimates with current realities and includes provisions for flood control and state-wide erosion control projects. These provisions are crucial to support the newly established Ministries, the construction of Model Primary, Secondary, and Technical schools, and the fulfillment of the ambitious promises outlined in the ‘Arise Agenda.’

The N150 billion supplementary budget is divided into recurrent expenditures of N50.3 billion and a capital estimate of N99.689 billion. These estimates were thoroughly discussed and adopted, pending the incorporation of agreed modifications.

During the meeting, other significant decisions were made, including the ratification of recommendations from the Finance and General Purposes Committee (FGPC). This included the approval of contracts for the construction of a 1.3 km underground discharge drain in Uyo and the reconstruction of Udoinwang Road, as well as the construction of erosion control facilities at Udoinwang gully erosion site.

Additionally, the SEC approved the state’s participation in the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER), a joint initiative involving federal and state entities, including the World Bank. This move aims to enhance business-friendly reforms and economic development in the state.