_…Chairman Okolo Sets Bold Vision for Infrastructure, Water, Education, Markets, ICT & Human Capital_

Awgu Chairman Okolo Presents N9bn 2026 Budget, Prioritizes Infrastructure, Water, Education, ICT, Agriculture and Economic Expansion

The Executive Chairman of Awgu Local Government Area, Hon. Uchenna Joseph Okolo, on Monday, 8th December 2025, presented a N9 billion 2026 Budget of Speedy Growth and Sustainable Development to the Awgu Legislative Council, setting a bold and ambitious roadmap for accelerated transformation across the LGA.

In an exclusive interview with UgamaTV shortly after the presentation, Hon. Okolo explained that the budget was strategically designed to sustain the developmental momentum built in 2025 and propel Awgu into a new era of infrastructural expansion and economic renewal.

According to him, 63% of the budget is dedicated to capital expenditure, while 37% covers recurrent expenditure, reflecting the administration’s commitment to physical development, economic stimulation, and long-term prosperity for the people of Awgu.

A Budget Rooted in Community Needs and Future Aspirations

Hon. Okolo noted that the 2026 budget was largely shaped by the needs assessment submitted by communities upon his assumption of office.

“About 90% of this budget is driven by what our people told us. They told us their problems. We listened, and we designed solutions,” he said.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Budget

1.Massive Road Construction & Infrastructure Drive

The Chairman reaffirmed that 2026 will witness an aggressive and unprecedented rollout of infrastructure projects across Awgu LGA. He noted that the administration is fully committed to paving as many community roads as possible, a process that has already begun. According to him, in the next two weeks, the council will commence the asphalting of 3.5km of strategic community access roads, particularly those leading to the LGA’s Smart Green Schools, to ensure seamless connectivity, safer mobility, and enhanced access to quality education.

He emphasized that Awgu’s infrastructure push aligns with Governor Peter Mbah’s statewide priority on education and road renewal.

2. Expansion of Water-for-All Programme
Having delivered over 20 boreholes, Awgu LGA will begin Phase Two of the Water-for-All project in 2026, extending potable water supply to more rural communities.

3. Boost to Agriculture & Community-Based Farming
In partnership with the Enugu State Government in farm green Estate, Awgu will intensify agricultural support programmes and farming schemes across all wards.

4. Revamp of Markets & Economic Clusters
A major feature of the budget is the establishment of an International Building Materials Market, expected to serve as an economic hub and revenue booster.

Awgu Central Market ( orie Awgu ) will also undergo full revival, pending final resolution with stakeholders.

Mini-markets and roadside trading hotspots—especially along Ogbeke Express Road—will be reorganized to curb roadside accidents and ensure safety.

5. Transformation of Transport Sector
In alignment with the Governor’s transport revolution, Hon. Okolo announced construction of new bus stops and the revitalization of transport parks across the LGA.

He disclosed that His Excellency has approved the Awgu Transport Infrastructure, which includes:
• Awgu Bus Terminal
• Awgu Logistic Parks
• Truck, tanker, and aggregate parks

Given Awgu’s strategic location along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, the Chairman said the project will unlock major economic opportunities.

6. Human Capital Development & ICT Training
The Chairman’s current temporary office—an ICT complex—will be dedicated fully to digital training once the new chairman’s office is completed.

Two entrepreneurship and vocational centres will be built:
• One in Awgu North (Agbogugu)
• One in Awgu South (Council Headquarters)

The centres will run 3–6 month training programmes in welding, tailoring, ICT, and other skills to empower youths and women.

7. Renovation of Government-Owned Facilities
All development centres—Mbanabo North, Mbanabo South, Anike and Awgu Central—will be renovated or reconstructed to restore their functionality.

The Mbanabo North Centre, sitting on large land but in dilapidated condition, will undergo total rehabilitation and fencing.

8. Housing Development Collaboration
Hon. Okolo confirmed ongoing collaboration with the Enugu State Ministry of Housing on strategic housing projects across Awgu LGA.

A Year of Speed, Impact and Consolidation

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Hon. Okolo declared:

“2026 will be a year of speed in development. We want to build, restore, revive and expand. Our goal is to create an Awgu where people can live, work, invest and prosper.”

He emphasized that the heavy capital investment is deliberate, aimed at laying the structural foundation for long-term economic growth and improved quality of life.

For Awgu, the 2026 Budget of Speedy Growth and Sustainable Development signals renewed confidence, broader vision, and a determined march towards modernisation.

Awgu is rising—faster, stronger and more united than ever.

Hon. Tochukwu Chukwu
Special Adviser on General Media & Publicity to the Executive Chairman, Awgu LGA