Apapa-Iganmu Council Proposes N16.13 Billion for 2026 Fiscal Year
Apapa-Iganmu, Lagos State – The Chairman of the Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jimoh Saliu, has unveiled a comprehensive budget proposal amounting to N16.13 billion for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year. This ambitious financial plan, christened the “Budget of Strategic Realignment,” signifies a notable increase of 45.42 per cent compared to the preceding year’s budget. The proposal was formally presented to the Legislative Arm of the council within the legislative chamber, marking a crucial step in the budget’s journey towards implementation.
Chairman Saliu articulated that the budget’s foundation rests on anticipated enhancements in allocations from the Federation Account, coupled with a realistic target for growth in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), projected to reach N340 million. This strategic financial outlook aims to bolster the council’s capacity to address the evolving needs of its constituents.
Budgetary Allocation: A Focus on Capital Development
A detailed breakdown of the proposed N16.13 billion allocation reveals a deliberate and strategic shift towards capital development projects. This emphasis underscores the administration’s commitment to tangible improvements within the council area.
- Personnel Costs: A sum of N2.714 billion, representing 16.81 per cent of the total budget, is allocated to personnel costs. This ensures the effective functioning of the council’s workforce.
- Overhead Expenditure: N8.092 billion, constituting a significant 50.14 per cent, is earmarked for overhead expenditures. This segment likely covers the operational costs necessary for the day-to-day running of council services and administrative functions.
- Capital Expenditure: A substantial N5.337 billion, representing 33.05 per cent of the budget, is dedicated to capital expenditure. This is where the core of the “Strategic Realignment” will be evident, funding transformative projects.
The council chairman elaborated that the N5,337,879,757.05 allocated for capital expenditure will be strategically distributed across several vital sectors. These include:
- General Public Services
- Public Order and Safety
- Economic Affairs
- Environment
- Health
- Education
- Social Protection
- Social Services
Key Investment Areas: Infrastructure and Security
Of particular significance within the capital expenditure is the proposed investment in the works and infrastructure sector. Chairman Saliu highlighted this as a critical component for driving progress and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The administration has put forth plans for substantial investment in:
- Road and Drainage Improvement: This includes the construction and rehabilitation of roads and drainage systems across all seven wards of the council. Addressing these fundamental infrastructure needs is crucial for easing transportation, preventing flooding, and improving the overall aesthetic and functionality of the area.
- Enhanced Security through Lighting: The provision of solar-powered streetlights is a key initiative aimed at illuminating dark spots. This measure is expected to significantly enhance public safety and security by deterring criminal activities and improving visibility for residents during nighttime hours.
Furthermore, the budget outlines a commitment to improving essential services through sustainable solutions:
- Water Access: The construction and maintenance of solar-powered boreholes are planned, with a target of at least one borehole per ward. This initiative aims to ensure consistent and reliable access to clean water for communities.
- Drainage Systems Maintenance: Beyond new construction, the rehabilitation of existing drainages and culverts is also a priority. This will help in managing water flow and preventing environmental issues.
- Continuation of “Operation Light-Up Apapa Iganmu”: The successful “Operation Light-Up Apapa Iganmu” initiative is slated for continuation, building on its positive impact in improving illumination and safety.
Chairman Saliu emphasized that this budget is not a standalone document but rather a direct continuation and amplification of the momentum generated by his administration during its initial 100 days in office. He articulated the budget’s core philosophy:
“The 2026 budget is a budget of realignment, realigning our resources towards the most pressing needs of our people, realigning our priorities to complete ongoing projects while initiating new ones, and realigning our collective efforts towards building a safer, cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Apapa Iganmu LCDA.”
Legislative Review and Optimism
Responding to the budget presentation, the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Adigun Arogundade, assured the council chairman and the public that the councillors would undertake a thorough and diligent scrutiny of the proposed budget. He pledged that the necessary steps would be taken to ensure its speedy consideration and eventual approval.
Arogundade expressed considerable optimism regarding the potential impact of the budget, stating his belief that its implementation would yield significant benefits for the residents of Apapa-Iganmu LCDA. The collaborative approach between the executive and legislative arms signals a shared commitment to advancing the development and well-being of the community.
