Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Monday unveiled a record-breaking N1.188 trillion budget proposal for 2025, the largest in the state’s history, to the State House of Assembly for approval.
The budget, tagged the “Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development”, represents a sharp increase from the N800 billion presented in 2024.
The governor said the 2025 budget is aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved living standards for the people of Rivers State.
Governor Fubara emphasized his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, stating, “We have earmarked over N195 billion to complete all ongoing road projects and initiate new ones. We will also modernize the public transport system to improve services and enhance mobility for our people.”
On healthcare and education, the governor revealed plans to inject substantial funds into the sector.
“With a proposed N97.75 billion, we will complete zonal hospitals, rehabilitate more general hospitals, and equip health centers to ensure quality and affordable healthcare delivery across the state.
“We have proposed to spend over N63 billion to rehabilitate schools, equip classrooms, and provide free basic education. This will ensure Rivers children have access to quality education and the skills they need to succeed,” he added.
The governor also underscored the importance of agriculture, stating, “We have allocated nearly N31 billion to transform agriculture in Rivers State. This will provide our youths with the tools and training to reduce unemployment and ensure food security.”
Fubara highlighted the government’s improved revenue generation. “The total projected revenue for 2025 is N1.188 trillion, with a remarkable N100 billion increase in Internally Generated Revenue. This achievement underscores our commitment to fiscal discipline and accountability,” he said.
Responding, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, commended the governor for his prudent financial management.
“Achieving over N100 billion in IGR growth reflects transparency in governance and shows that Rivers State has become an attractive investment destination. We will work closely with the Executive to ensure the budget delivers democratic dividends and improves the quality of life for our people.”
