Rivers State Sole Administrator, Mr. Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Tuesday formally presented the proposed 2025 budget of N1.48 trillion before the House of Representatives, outlining a bold and expansive fiscal plan aimed at infrastructure revitalization, improved social services, and inclusive development, all under the current state of emergency in the state.

However, Ibas expressed regret over what he described as sabotage by some suspended state officials, noting that their lack of cooperation significantly obstructed the planning process.

The proposed expenditure of N1.48 trillion is backed by a projected revenue of N1.4 trillion. The budget was submitted to the National Assembly following presidential assent, after the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legality of the Rivers State 2025 appropriation process. According to Ibas, the fiscal proposal aligns with the Rivers State Development Plan 2017–2027.

In his opening remarks, Ibas thanked the lawmakers for their dedication to duty.

“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 lamented the withholding of essential data by some officials from the previous administration:

“Regrettably, some state officials withheld critical information required to ensure a more complete capture of expenditures already undertaken during the first quarter of the fiscal year by the suspended administration,” Ibas disclosed.

Despite this setback, Ibas assured lawmakers that the revised budget framework would lawfully ratify those expenditures while adhering to transparency and aligning with national budgeting standards.

Key Allocations in the Budget Include: N324.5 billion for infrastructure and transportation projects, N55 billion for the relocation and expansion of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, N50 billion for zonal hospital upgrades, N38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control, N30 billion for zonal secondary schools, N5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation, N2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment, N3 billion for youth resource centres, N20 billion to recapitalise Rivers State Microfinance Bank in support of MSMEs and N117 billion for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits

Ibas also underscored the inclusive vision behind the budget: “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, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity, or political divide,” he declared.

In response, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, commended the administrator for the detailed budget presentation and reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to restoring peace and development in Rivers.

“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 been a shining example of what is possible with good leadership, and that is why this commitment is here.”

He also stressed the need for thorough scrutiny of the budget proposal:

“We will scrutinise the budget. We will invite you to send your relevant officials for a proper defence of the budget. Since we are committed to joining hands with you to get Rivers State back on track, we are not going to cut corners.”

Ihonvbere further praised the budget’s social welfare focus particularly its provisions for women’s empowerment and pensions describing them as commendable and people-oriented.

“These are areas that touch people’s lives, and we know the plight of their families. We appreciate you for making these bold commitments,” he added.

The committee is expected to commence detailed budget defence sessions in the coming weeks to ensure fiscal discipline, accountability, and effective implementation under the emergency governance framework.

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