Rivers State’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), has announced that preparations are in progress for the state’s 2025 budget, focusing on healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and job creation.
Ibas made this known on Thursday while hosting a delegation of the Rivers State National Assembly caucus, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, at Government House, Port Harcourt.
He stated that following the Supreme Court’s verdict on the state’s budget, efforts have been hastened to draft a new appropriation bill that shows the commitment of the government to social services and economic development.
Senator Allwell Onyesoh, the minority leader of the House of Representatives; Kingsley Chinda; Dumnamene Dekor; Solomon Bob; Cyril Godwin Hart; Blessing Amadi; Felix Nwaeke; Kelechi Nwogu; and Victor Obuzor were included in the delegation.
Ibas stated that he has been purposive since the presumption of office in restoring law and order, and with support from the security agencies, a safe and inclusive environment has been established in Rivers State, fostering a sense of value and security among residents.
The administrator stated that the commitment is to make Rivers a model of peace in the goodwill of states, with a stable economy and citizens who are courageous to pursue their livelihood without fear or molestation.
He said, “In addition to our peace-building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State.
“Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.”
“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly, expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.”
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The sole administrator added, “The budget, which is being finalised, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.
“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay.”
Ibas noted that to get the task done, the support of the legislators will be needed as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly.
“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations,” he said.
Ibas explained that in the face of the challenges that plagued Rivers, which led to the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, dialogue, community engagement, and reconciliation were situated to build trust among the citizenry.
The people of Rivers State have indeed demonstrated remarkable resilience and patience in their quest for peace and respect for the law.
Ibas assured that his government remains committed to achieving enduring peace for the state.
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He stated, “Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people.
“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected. Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state.”
Senator Mpigi, speaking on behalf of the delegation, applauded Ibas for his efforts so far and pledged their support to initiatives aimed at restoring stability and development in the state.
