By Paul Effiong, Abuja
To ensure effective people oriented governance in Rivers State, the Sole Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Wednesday, appeared before lawmakers in the green chamber to defend the proposed ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget.
The proposed budget which comprises ₦1.48 trillion in expected expenditure and a projected ₦1.4 trillion in revenue, was recently transmitted to the National Assembly, following presidential approval and the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming the legality of the Rivers State 2025 appropriation process.
In his address before the lawmakers, the sole administrator commended the lawmakers and the Ad-hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight for their dedication to duty, as well as prompt legislative actions through a budget that will fast track development in the state.
According to him, “We, in Rivers State, are most grateful for your commitment. Despite your tight schedules, you have shown unwavering resolve to fulfill your constitutional duties.”
He, however, expressed strong concern over lack of cooperation from some suspended lawmakers and government officials, adding that their lukewarm attitude hampered a comprehensive budget planning for the state.
“Some state officials withheld critical information required to ensure a more complete capturing of expenditure already undertaken during the first quarter of the fiscal year,” he explained.
It would be recalled that the budget, comprising ₦1.48 trillion in proposed expenditure and a projected ₦1.4 trillion in revenue, was transmitted to the National Assembly, following an appropriation process which is in alignment with the strategic priorities outlined in the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027).
In his opening remarks, Ibas thanked the committee for its dedication and commitment.
He highlighted major allocations which include ₦324.5 billion for infrastructure and transportation projects; ₦55 billion to relocate and expand Rivers State University Teaching Hospital; ₦50 billion for zonal hospital upgrades; ₦38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control; ₦30 billion for zonal secondary schools and ₦5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation;₦2.5 billion for women economic empowerment and ₦3 billion for youth resource centers.
Others are ₦20 billion to recapitalisle Rivers State Microfinance Bank for MSME support;₦117 billion in pension, gratuities, and employee benefits.
In his address, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Julius Ihonvbere, commended the administrator for his detailed briefing and reaffirmed his committee’s commitment to support the peace and development process in Rivers State.
He explained that: “This committee is committed to working with you to restore stability, peace, growth and development in the State. Rivers has always been a shining example of what is possible with good governance.”
He also emphasized the importance of transparency and due process in reviewing the budget:
“We will scrutinize it. We will invite you to send your relevant officials for a proper defense. While we are committed to getting Rivers State back on track, we are not going to cut corners.”
