Rivers State Governor Fubara Proposes N1.188 Trillion Budget for 2025, Focus on Growth and Development
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has presented an ambitious budget for 2025, totaling N1.188 trillion. This marks a significant rise from the previous year’s N800 billion budget, reflecting the state’s commitment to inclusive growth and development. The budget, dubbed the “Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development,” seeks to foster sustainable economic expansion, improve infrastructure, and elevate living standards for all residents.
Budget Breakdown:
- Recurrent Expenditure: N462.25 billion
- Capital Expenditure: N678.08 billion
- Planning Reserve: N35.69 billion
- Closing Balance: N12.93 billion
The recurrent-to-capital expenditure ratio is set at 44:56%, a clear indication of the administration’s focus on both infrastructure development and human capital investment.
Road Infrastructure and Agriculture Focus
A substantial allocation of over N195 billion has been earmarked for the completion of ongoing road projects and the initiation of new ones. Additionally, modernization efforts will be directed toward public transportation systems across the state.
To tackle food insecurity and promote youth involvement in agriculture, nearly N31 billion will be dedicated to agricultural transformation. This initiative includes land preparation, the provision of improved seedlings and fertilizers, and the supply of modern farming tools to empower the younger generation and reduce unemployment.
Education and Healthcare Development
Education remains a priority, with N63 billion allocated to enhance the learning environment. This will include rehabilitating and equipping public schools, securing Universal Basic Education Commission grants, and improving infrastructure in secondary schools, such as classrooms, water, and electricity.
The healthcare sector also receives a significant boost, with N97.75 billion allocated for the completion of key projects, including zonal hospitals, a neuropsychiatric hospital, and the Rumuigbo General Hospital. Efforts to strengthen the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and improve access to medical supplies are also in the pipeline.
Youth Empowerment, Sports, and Social Inclusion
The administration is set to invest N15.4 billion in youth and gender empowerment programs, sports development, and social inclusion. This includes the creation of digital resource centers and support for state sports teams such as Rivers United and Rivers Angels.
Energy and Infrastructure Initiatives
In an effort to improve energy supply, the government plans to complete ongoing electrification projects and transition streetlights in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas to solar power. Additionally, the state aims to pass the Rivers State Electricity Market Bill to attract private sector investments into the energy sector.
Fiscal Management and IGR Growth
Governor Fubara emphasized the state’s remarkable performance in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), with a N100 billion increase over 2023’s figures. The budget will be funded through a combination of FAAC allocations, IGR, statutory allocations, mineral funds, VAT, and refunds.
Legislature’s Support and Commitment
Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, commended the Governor for his leadership in boosting IGR and maintaining financial discipline. He assured that the legislature would continue to support the administration’s efforts to deliver democratic dividends to the people of Rivers State.
The 2025 budget presentation underscores Governor Fubara’s resolve to build a resilient economy and ensure inclusive development across all sectors of the state.
