Kebbi State recorded a 59.54 per cent increase in its overall revenue for 2025, driven by a 107.81 per cent growth in internally generated revenue (IGR) which reached ₦23.62 billion, according to the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Dr Abba Sani Kalgo.
Dr Kalgo made this disclosure during a press briefing held on a Saturday night, highlighting that the state achieved a fiscal surplus of ₦15.13 billion—the highest across the North-West geopolitical zone. Furthermore, capital expenditure grew by 60.08 per cent, representing 63.45 per cent of the total expenditure profile for the period under review.
What led to the state's high ranking in the budget report?
According to the commissioner, Kebbi State secured its position as the best-managed state in Northern Nigeria and ranked fifth overall among the 36 states in the 2026 State Budget Report. Dr Kalgo noted that this independent evaluation assessed public financial management across parameters such as revenue generation capacity, fiscal viability, debt sustainability, and the prioritisation of key sectors including agriculture, health, education, water supply, and sanitation.
He attributed the success to fiscal discipline, prudent resource management, and the policy direction of Governor Nasir Idris. He described the fifth- place national ranking as an independent affirmation of the administration's dedication to transparency and financial accountability.
How does the state manage its debt obligations?
Addressing the state's financial liabilities, Dr Kalgo revealed that Kebbi's debt service obligations accounted for only 2.40 per cent of its total revenue, positioning the sub-national government as the fourth least-indebted state in Nigeria. He stated that these outcomes stemmed from deliberate economic reforms, enhanced revenue collection mechanisms, and disciplined spending.
The commissioner also used the medium to address critics, specifically dismissing allegations of financial mismanagement previously raised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He challenged opposition figures to review the independent assessment data for an objective evaluation of the government's economic performance, emphasising that democratic governance relies on evidence-based scrutiny.
Looking ahead, Dr Kalgo assured residents that the administration under Governor Idris would sustain its developmental trajectory. He promised the prompt delivery of ongoing infrastructural projects across the 21 local government areas, focusing on road networks, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and sustainable agricultural support aimed at uplifting living standards.