The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Enlightenment to the Governor of Ondo State, Comrade Olufemi Lawson, has described the newly signed 2026 budget of N524 billion as a critical and strategic step towards further economic advancement and improved welfare of the people of the state.

In a statement on Wednesday, Comrade Lawson reacted to the signing into law of the 2026 Appropriation Bill by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, noting that the budget, aptly tagged: “Budget of Economic Consolidation,” reflects the administration’s deep commitment to sustaining growth, stability, and inclusive development across Ondo State.

According to the SSA, the size and focus of the N524 billion budget demonstrate a clear resolve by the Aiyedatiwa-led administration to consolidate ongoing reforms and developmental strides, while laying a stronger foundation for long-term economic prosperity.

Lawson highlighted that the 2026 budget places deliberate priority on key sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, and human capital development.

He noted that increased investment in infrastructure would further open up the state for business and industrial activities, while improved funding for education and healthcare would enhance human capacity and social wellbeing.

The SSA further emphasised that the agricultural component of the budget would strengthen food security, empower farmers, and create employment opportunities for youths, while sustained attention to human capital development would ensure that the people of Ondo State remain competitive in an evolving national and global economy.

Linking the 2026 budget to the administration’s policy direction, Lawson stated that the appropriation is a continuation of the principles and vision of Governor Aiyedatiwa.

He explained that the budget clearly aligns with the agenda’s focus on Opportunity, Unity, Responsibility, Economic development, Security, and Education, which collectively aim to make life more meaningful for residents across all parts of the state.

He reaffirmed the determination of the Aiyedatiwa administration to continue pursuing the ‘Our Ease Agenda’ with renewed vigour, stressing that the 2026 budget is not just a fiscal document but a people-centred roadmap designed to uplift communities, stimulate economic activities and improve the overall quality of life of Ondo State citizens.

Lawson called on all stakeholders, including public servants, lawmakers, private sector players, and citizens, to support the effective implementation of the budget to ensure that its objectives are fully realised for the benefit of the people of Ondo State.