Nasarawa State Assembly Approves Augmented 2025 Budget Focused on Economic Growth and Stability
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has concluded its deliberations on the 2025 Appropriation Bill, passing a revised budget of N402.57 billion. This figure represents a significant increase of N20 billion from the initial N382.57 billion proposed by Governor Abdullahi Sule, reflecting the Assembly’s recognition of the prevailing economic realities and the need for strategic investments across crucial sectors. The augmented budget aims to provide the necessary financial framework for the government’s development agenda, prioritizing projects with direct impact on the lives of the people of Nasarawa State. This strategic allocation emphasizes the commitment to driving economic growth and fostering stability within the state.
The budget, aptly christened "Budget of Economic Growth and Stability", has been meticulously reviewed and adjusted by the House to better address the current economic challenges and opportunities. The Assembly cited the importance of bolstering key economic codes and mitigating the effects of inflation as the primary justifications for the increase. This budgetary adjustment underscores the government’s commitment to strategically allocating resources where they can have the most significant impact. The increased allocation is expected to provide a more robust foundation for achieving the development objectives outlined in the budget, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Nasarawa State.
The approved budget allocates N166.38 billion to recurrent expenditure, covering the day-to-day operational costs of government services. A more substantial portion, N236.18 billion, has been earmarked for capital expenditure, focusing on infrastructural development, job creation, and other long-term investments. This strategic division prioritizes projects that will drive economic growth, improve the quality of life for residents, and position the state for sustained prosperity. The significant capital expenditure allocation underscores the government’s commitment to tangible, impactful development initiatives.
Speaker Danladi Jatau, presiding over the legislative proceedings, formally announced the passage of the bill, expressing confidence in its potential to empower the government to execute a broader range of people-oriented projects. He emphasized the importance of the budget in driving the overall development of Nasarawa State. Following the Assembly’s approval, the bill awaits Governor Sule’s assent to become law. The Speaker has instructed the Clerk of the House to prepare and transmit the finalized bill to the Governor for his consideration and signature.
In a parallel development that reflects the legislative body’s focus on citizen safety and well-being, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly also passed a bill to establish the Nasarawa State Fire and Rescue Service Agency. This initiative demonstrates the government’s proactive approach to enhancing public safety. The agency will be responsible for fire suppression, rescue operations in hazardous situations, and related emergency services. This move signals a commitment to strengthening emergency response capabilities within the state, safeguarding both lives and property.
The establishment of this dedicated agency highlights the importance placed on the safety and security of the people of Nasarawa State. The agency will be equipped to respond effectively to fire incidents, rescue individuals and animals from perilous circumstances, and provide essential support during emergencies. This comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness reinforces the government’s dedication to protecting its citizens and minimizing the impact of unforeseen events. The newly formed agency represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of the residents of Nasarawa State.
With the legislative agenda addressed, the House of Assembly announced its Christmas recess, commencing on December 21, 2024, with resumption scheduled for February 3, 2025. This break allows members of the Assembly to observe the holiday period and return refreshed for the upcoming legislative year. The recess period provides an opportunity for reflection and constituency engagement, enabling the lawmakers to return prepared to address the challenges and opportunities facing the state in 2025.
