The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has stated that the proposed ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget anticipates the return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political officeholders currently affected by the ongoing political crisis.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a budget defense session before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Ibas explained that the proposal aligns with the strategic objectives of the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027).
He described the budget as a strategic and integrated framework aimed at boosting revenue generation, accelerating infrastructure development, strengthening human capital, and promoting inclusive economic growth across various sectors.
“In anticipation of an eventual return to constitutional order, the draft budget prudently retains provisions for the offices and functions of suspended political actors,” Ibas said.
“Some of these individuals have already accessed their allocations in the first quarter and are expected to resume duties after the expiration of the emergency period.”
However, Ibas expressed concern that certain state officials had failed to provide essential information necessary for a complete and accurate budget proposal.
“Regrettably, some officials withheld critical information needed for a full capture of expenditures,” he said.
“Despite this, and considering the urgent circumstances under the state of emergency, the budget incorporates available expenditure data to ensure that first-quarter spending is lawfully and transparently ratified.”
He added that this approach was designed to maintain fiscal credibility and align with statutory appropriation protocols while preserving the integrity of public finance management.
The ₦1.48 trillion budget proposal projects ₦1.4 trillion in revenue. It was submitted to the National Assembly after receiving presidential approval, following a Supreme Court ruling affirming the legality of the Rivers State 2025 appropriation process.
In his opening remarks, Ibas thanked the committee for its commitment, saying:
“We in Rivers State are deeply grateful for your dedication. Despite your demanding schedules, you’ve shown unwavering resolve to fulfil your constitutional responsibilities.”
Ibas also outlined major allocations in the budget, including:
- ₦324.50 billion for infrastructure and transportation
- ₦55 billion for the relocation and expansion of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital
- ₦50 billion for zonal hospital upgrades
- ₦38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control
- ₦30 billion for zonal secondary schools
- ₦5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation
- ₦2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment
- ₦3 billion for youth resource centres
- ₦20 billion to recapitalise the Rivers State Microfinance Bank to support MSMEs
- ₦117 billion for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits
In response, the Chairman of the House Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, commended Ibas for a comprehensive presentation and expressed the committee’s willingness to collaborate in restoring peace and development to the state.
“We are committed to working with you to restore stability, peace, and growth in Rivers State,” Ihonvbere said.
“While we support your efforts, we will also rigorously scrutinise the budget. Relevant officials will be invited for further budget defense. We won’t cut corners.”
Ihonvbere, who also serves as the House Majority Leader, highlighted the budget’s social welfare focus—particularly on women’s empowerment and retirees’ pensions—as crucial and people-focused interventions.
“These are areas that directly impact lives. We understand the struggles families are facing and commend you for addressing these issues boldly,” he added.
