The N1.62 trillion 2026 budget presented by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to the state House of Assembly signals a major push for infrastructure and economic development across the state.
Of the total budget, a significant N1.3 trillion (approximately 80 percent) is earmarked for capital expenditure, with only 20 percent allocated to recurrent spending. The emphasis on capital projects reflects the governor’s strategic focus on wealth creation, real estate growth, and improving the state’s economy.
The budget highlights roads and infrastructure as key drivers of real estate development, linking communities, reducing transportation costs, and encouraging investment outside urban centres. Key projects include:
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Construction of 1,200 urban roads and numerous rural roads
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Completion of the 40-kilometre Owo-Ubahu-Amankanu-Neke-Ikem dual carriageway
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Dualisation of the Abakpa Nike – Ugwogo Nike – Ekwegbe – Opi-Nsukka Road
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21.65-kilometre Enugu–Abakaliki Expressway
Governor Mbah’s infrastructure agenda aims to boost internally generated revenue (IGR) and expand the state’s GDP by driving investment and enhancing connectivity. The state has already initiated rehabilitation of 141 urban roads across 13 zones, with an allocation of N183 billion, contributing to urban renewal and modernisation of ancient markets and motor parks.
According to local land agents, land prices across Enugu have surged in response to infrastructure development. For instance, plots in the Nike Lake Resort area, which sold for N8–11 million in 2023/2024, now fetch between N20–25 million. Demand is particularly strong from diaspora buyers and Enugu indigenes living in cities such as Lagos and Abuja.
The budget also focuses on transportation improvements, including the construction of five new transport terminals in Emene, Udi, Awgu, Four-Corners (Ozalla), and Obollo-Afor. In addition, 15,000 mass housing units are planned, and further infrastructure development is projected for the New Enugu City.
With the state’s IGR expected to exceed ₦400 billion by year-end, these initiatives are anticipated to generate significant economic activity, create jobs, increase purchasing power, and support sustainable growth in the real estate sector.
Governor Mbah’s strategic capital allocation underscores his commitment to building a modern, economically vibrant, and real estate-friendly Enugu State, benefiting residents, investors, and the wider economy.
