Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has marked a significant legislative milestone by signing the state’s 2025 budget of N1.1 trillion into law, representing a substantial increase from the previous year’s N800 billion allocation. The budget, dubbed “Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development,” signals ambitious plans for state-wide development across multiple sectors.
The signing ceremony, which took place on Thursday, follows the budget’s presentation to the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led State House of Assembly on December 30, 2024. Governor Fubara emphasized the comprehensive nature of the budget, highlighting its focus on critical sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
This substantial financial commitment marks a 38% increase from the 2024 fiscal allocation, reflecting the administration’s expanded vision for state development. The governor’s public statement expressed appreciation for both the State House of Assembly’s diligence and his executive team’s dedication to service, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the budget’s passage.
However, the budget signing occurs against a backdrop of political tension, with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) raising concerns about the legitimacy of the process. These objections echo similar controversies from 2024 when Governor Fubara bypassed the 27-member factional Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule, known for its loyalty to his predecessor and former political ally, Nyesom Wike.
The political dynamics surrounding the budget’s passage highlight ongoing tensions within Rivers State’s political landscape. The governor’s choice to work with the Oko-Jumbo-led assembly rather than the Amaewhule faction continues to fuel debate about political legitimacy and governance in the state.
Despite these political undercurrents, the budget’s focus on key development sectors suggests a forward-looking approach to state governance. The increased allocation potentially positions Rivers State for significant infrastructure development and social service improvements in the coming year.
The governor’s emphasis on education and healthcare within the budget framework indicates a commitment to human capital development. Similarly, the inclusion of agriculture among priority sectors suggests efforts to diversify the state’s economy and enhance food security.
Looking ahead, the successful implementation of this ambitious budget will likely depend on various factors, including political stability, revenue generation, and effective project execution. The substantial increase in allocation also raises questions about funding sources and fiscal sustainability.
The timing of the budget signing, early in the new year, provides a full calendar year for implementation, potentially enhancing the likelihood of achieving stated objectives. This timing advantage could prove crucial for complex projects requiring extended planning and execution periods.
The governor’s public commitment to “making Rivers State great again” suggests a long-term vision extending beyond immediate fiscal considerations. However, the success of this vision will largely depend on the administration’s ability to navigate both political challenges and practical implementation hurdles.
As Rivers State embarks on this ambitious financial plan, stakeholders across political divides will be watching closely to see how effectively the increased budget translates into tangible development outcomes for the state’s residents. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this expanded budget truly delivers on its promise of inclusive growth and development.
This budget signing represents not just a fiscal milestone but a test of governance effectiveness in Rivers State. Its success or failure could have significant implications for the state’s development trajectory and political stability in the years ahead.
