The Nigerian Senate has backed a revised 2025 budget of ₦1.846 trillion for Rivers State, an increase of ₦360 billion from the ₦1.486 trillion originally submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, presented the revised budget to the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Oversight, explaining that the additional funds will support security, pension payments, and capital projects aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Chairman of the Committee, defended the budget increase, highlighting that ₦50 billion has been set aside to settle outstanding pensions and gratuities.
“These are people who served their state and have waited for years. Paying them is a moral responsibility and a way to promote peace,” Bamidele said.
He also praised the budget’s structure, noting that over 70% of the budget is for capital projects, such as infrastructure and job creation, while less than 30% is for recurrent spending like salaries and overheads.
“This shows a clear focus on development. When budgets are directed towards capital projects, citizens can see the benefits directly,” he added.
The Senate assured that it would not just approve the budget but would also track its implementation. The Senate Leader said the Ad-hoc Committee would monitor spending and project delivery closely to ensure accountability.
“It is not enough to allocate money. We will follow up project by project, to make sure the funds lead to real progress,” he said.
He stressed the importance of making sure the budget improves the daily lives of Rivers residents, especially during a time of political uncertainty and temporary governance.
“Our concern is not only about figures but about results. Will this budget improve roads, hospitals, schools, and jobs for the people of Rivers? That’s what truly matters,” he concluded.
