The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Adm Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has shed light on the N1.48 trillion 2025 budget estimate, revealing provisions for the return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other state actors.
The budget retains provisions for the offices and functions of suspended political actors, anticipating their eventual return to constitutional order.
Notably, some suspended officials have already utilised allocated resources in the first quarter and are expected to resume their duties once the emergency period expires.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibas as Sole Administrator on March 18, 2025, following a state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. The move was prompted by a political crisis between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Also see: Rivers APC Warns Gov. Fubara: Reconcile or Face Impeachment
The budget aligns with the Rivers State Development Plan 2017-2027, focusing on strategic objectives such as raising revenues, accelerating infrastructure development, enhancing human capital, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Key allocations include:
- N324.50 billion for infrastructure and transportation projects
- N55 billion for the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital relocation and expansion
- N50 billion for zonal hospital upgrades
- N38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control
- N30 billion for zonal secondary schools and N5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation
- N2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment and N3 billion for youth resource centres
- N20 billion to recapitalise Rivers State Microfinance Bank
- N117 billion in pension, gratuities, and employee benefits
Ibas noted that some Rivers officials withheld critical information during budget preparation, but the administration ensured fiscal credibility and transparency.
The House of Representatives Committee on Rivers State oversight commended Ibas for the detailed presentation and pledged to partner with the administrator to restore peace and development to the state.
The N1.48 trillion 2025 budget estimate signals a commitment to development and growth in Rivers State. With a focus on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare programs, the budget demonstrates the administration’s priorities.
The committee’s willingness to collaborate with the administrator bodes well for the budget’s effective implementation.
