The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Mr. Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Wednesday presented the proposed ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget to the House of Representatives. The budget outlines a robust fiscal plan aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing social services, and fostering inclusive development under the ongoing state of emergency.
During the presentation, Mr. Ibas expressed concern over the lack of cooperation from certain suspended state officials, which he said hindered comprehensive planning. He noted that crucial information related to expenditures from the first quarter of the fiscal year was withheld, posing challenges to the budgeting process.
The proposed budget includes total expenditures of ₦1.48 trillion against a projected revenue of ₦1.4 trillion. It was transmitted to the National Assembly following presidential assent and after a Supreme Court ruling upheld the legality of the state’s appropriation process. The budget aligns with strategic objectives set out in the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027).
In his opening remarks, Mr. Ibas commended the committee for its support. “We in Rivers State are most grateful for your commitment. Despite your tight schedules, you have shown unwavering resolve to fulfil your constitutional duties,” he said.
He further explained that, despite setbacks, the budget had been revised to accommodate expenditures incurred by the suspended administration in a transparent and lawful manner, ensuring compliance with national standards.
Key allocations in the proposed budget include:
₦324.5 billion for infrastructure and transport development
₦55 billion for the relocation and expansion of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital
₦50 billion for upgrades to zonal hospitals
₦38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control
₦30 billion for the development of zonal secondary schools
₦5.75 billion for the rehabilitation of primary schools
₦2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment initiatives
₦3 billion for the establishment of youth resource centres
₦20 billion to recapitalise the Rivers State Microfinance Bank to support MSMEs
₦117 billion for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits
“God willing, every Rivers citizen with a great idea, carefully thought out and well-planned will find the funding required to turn their dreams into successful ventures, regardless of tribe, ethnicity, or political affiliation,” Mr. Ibas said.
In response, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, praised the detailed presentation and affirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting the administrator in restoring stability and progress in the state.
“I want to especially thank you and let you know that this committee is committed to working with you to restore stability, peace, growth, and development in Rivers State,” Ihonvbere said. “Rivers has always stood out as a symbol of what is possible with visionary leadership.”
He also stressed the importance of scrutinising the proposed figures:
“We will examine the budget thoroughly. Relevant officials will be invited to defend the allocations. Our goal is to get Rivers State back on track, and we will not cut corners.”
Hon. Ihonvbere highlighted the budget’s social welfare priorities, particularly women’s empowerment and pensions, describing them as impactful and necessary.
“These are real-life issues that affect families, and we appreciate your bold steps in addressing them,” he added.
The House committee is expected to begin detailed budget defence sessions in the coming weeks to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and effective implementation under the emergency governance framework.
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