The 2025 budget proposal for Rivers State, amounting to N1.48 trillion, has been presented to the House of Representatives ad hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), the Sole Administrator appointed by President Bola Tinubu. Remarkably, the budget includes provisions for the potential return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly, anticipating the eventual lifting of the state of emergency imposed by the President. This emergency rule stemmed from a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The inclusion of these provisions reflects a forward-thinking approach, acknowledging the possibility of a return to constitutional order and ensuring a smooth transition.
Despite operating under emergency rule, the proposed budget adheres to the Rivers State Development Plan 2017-2027, aiming to boost revenue generation, accelerate infrastructure development, improve human capital, and promote inclusive economic growth. It addresses key sectors and strives to maintain fiscal credibility. However, the budget preparation process encountered challenges due to the withholding of crucial expenditure information by some state officials. Ibas emphasized that the budget framework incorporates available data to ratify first-quarter expenditures transparently and lawfully, ensuring alignment with statutory appropriation protocols.
The proposed budget allocates significant funds to various critical sectors. A substantial N324.50 billion is earmarked for infrastructure and transportation projects, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving the state’s physical infrastructure. Healthcare receives significant attention, with N55 billion allocated for relocating and expanding the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and an additional N50 billion for upgrading zonal hospitals. Recognizing the environmental challenges facing the state, N38.85 billion is dedicated to shoreline protection and erosion control.
Education also receives a substantial allocation, with N30 billion designated for zonal secondary schools and N5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation. The budget demonstrates a focus on social welfare and empowerment, with N2.5 billion allocated for women’s economic empowerment and N3 billion for youth resource centers. Supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, N20 billion is allocated to recapitalize the Rivers State Microfinance Bank. Furthermore, N117 billion is earmarked for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits, demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of retirees and state employees.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, lauded the detailed presentation by Ibas and expressed the committee’s willingness to collaborate with the administrator in restoring peace and development to Rivers State. He affirmed the committee’s commitment to thoroughly scrutinizing the budget proposal to ensure it serves the best interests of the state and its people. While pledging support for the administrator, Ihonvbere emphasized that the committee would not compromise its oversight responsibilities.
The budget’s substantial investment in infrastructure clearly aims to stimulate economic growth. These projects, ranging from transportation improvements to hospital expansions, are not merely investments in physical structures but also represent a strategic allocation of resources designed to create jobs, improve access to essential services, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for the people of Rivers State. This focus on infrastructure is crucial for the state’s long-term development and prosperity. The emphasis on education, from primary schools to a teaching hospital, further underscores the commitment to human capital development, recognizing that a well-educated populace is the cornerstone of any thriving society.
The significant allocation for shoreline protection and erosion control speaks to the importance of addressing environmental concerns in Rivers State’s coastal region. This investment not only protects vital infrastructure and communities from the devastating effects of erosion, but also highlights the administration’s awareness of the need for sustainable development practices. By investing in these protective measures, the government aims to mitigate long-term environmental risks and ensure the continued viability of coastal communities. The substantial provision for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits demonstrates a commitment to honoring the state’s obligations to its workforce, both current and retired. This commitment recognizes the vital role played by public servants and ensures their financial security.
Furthermore, the allocation for women’s economic empowerment and youth resource centers demonstrates a dedication to fostering inclusivity and providing opportunities for all segments of the population. By investing in these initiatives, the government aims to empower women and young people, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy and society. The focus on small and medium-sized enterprises through the recapitalization of the Rivers State Microfinance Bank is another strategic move aimed at stimulating economic activity at the grassroots level. Providing access to capital for these businesses can create jobs, generate income, and drive economic growth across the state.
In conclusion, the 2025 Rivers State budget proposal, while developed under unique circumstances, reflects a comprehensive approach to development. It addresses key sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare, demonstrating a vision for a more prosperous and inclusive future for Rivers State. The budget’s meticulous planning, even amidst political transitions, highlights the commitment to ensuring continuity in governance and maintaining fiscal responsibility. The significant allocations across diverse sectors indicate a well-rounded approach to development, aimed at addressing immediate needs while also paving the way for long-term growth and sustainable development in Rivers State. The scrutiny by the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight promises to ensure transparency and accountability in the budget’s implementation.
