The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Wednesday, presented a proposed N1.48 trillion 2025 appropriation bill to the House of Representatives.
He outlined an ambitious fiscal strategy aimed at rebuilding critical infrastructure, enhancing social services, and fostering inclusive development, all within the context of the ongoing state of emergency in the State.
Ibas, however, voiced concern over the lack of cooperation from certain suspended government officials, which he said created obstacles in forming a fully comprehensive budget.
The budget proposal, which included N1.48 trillion in total spending against projected revenues of N1.4 trillion, was forwarded to the National Assembly following presidential endorsement and a Supreme Court judgment affirming the legitimacy of Rivers State’s 2025 budget process.
The plan aligns with the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027), emphasising long-term strategic goals.
In his introductory remarks, Ibas extended gratitude to the House committee for its dedication and acknowledged their effort despite busy schedules, commending their resolve to uphold their constitutional responsibilities.
Ibas disclosed that the budget process was hindered by some suspended officials who refused to release key financial information, which made it difficult to accurately account for expenditures made during the first quarter by the suspended administration.
He explained that the fiscal framework was adjusted to legitimise those earlier expenditures.
He emphasised that the adjustments were made transparently and in line with national financial regulations.
The administrator highlighted significant budget allocations, including N324.5 billion earmarked for infrastructure and transportation; N55 billion for relocating and expanding Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, and N50 billion for upgrading zonal hospitals.
It also included, “N38.85 billion dedicated to shoreline protection and erosion control; N30 billion for building zonal secondary schools, N5.75 billion for rehabilitating primary schools; N2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment programs; N3 billion for the development of youth resource centres, N20 billion for recapitalising the Rivers State Microfinance Bank to support MSMEs, N117 billion allocated to pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits.”
Ibas expressed the hope that any citizen of Rivers State with a well-conceived and thoroughly planned idea would be able to access the financial support needed to succeed regardless of their background, tribe, or political ties.
Following the presentation, the Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, praised Ibas for providing a detailed and transparent briefing.
He reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to supporting peace and development in the state.
He assured the administrator of the committee’s intention to partner in restoring stability, economic growth, and development, noting that Rivers State has historically demonstrated what good leadership could achieve.
Ihonvbere, also emphasised the necessity of transparency and adherence to due process in evaluating the budget.
He stated that the committee would thoroughly review the budget and invite relevant state officials to defend the proposal in detail, ensuring no shortcuts are taken.
He further lauded the inclusion of social impact measures in the budget, especially those targeting women’s empowerment and benefits for retirees, noting these interventions address real needs faced by many citizens.
The committee was expected to commence budget defence hearings in the coming weeks, as lawmakers aim to ensure the proposal upholds fiscal responsibility, transparency, and effective implementation, particularly under the state’s emergency administrative structure.
Juliet Akoje
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