Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented a 2025 budget proposal of N1.18 trillion to a factional House of Assembly on Monday, December 30, amidst ongoing political tensions. The presentation took place before a three-member Assembly, bypassing the 27 lawmakers loyal to his predecessor and estranged political ally, Nyesom Wike.
The budget, titled “Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development,” aims to boost sustainable economic growth and improve residents’ living conditions. Governor Fubara stated the budget allocation includes:
Recurrent Expenditure: N462.25 billion
Capital Expenditure: N678.08 billion
Planning Reserve: N35.69 billion
Closing Balance: N12.93 billion
This reflects a 44:56 recurrent-to-capital expenditure ratio, signaling a commitment to infrastructure and human capital development.
Agriculture & Youth Empowerment: Nearly N31 billion to combat unemployment.
Education: Over N63 billion (9.3% of the budget) to rehabilitate schools, access federal grants, and enhance free basic education.
Health: N97.75 billion (14.4% of the budget) for hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Infrastructure: Over N195 billion for ongoing and new road projects.
Social Development: N15.4 billion for youth empowerment, sports, and social inclusion.
The Speaker of the three-member Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo, commended Fubara for raising the state’s internally generated revenue by N100 billion and promised legislative support.
The Rivers State APC condemned Fubara’s decision to sideline the larger pro-Wike Assembly faction. Party Publicity Secretary Chibuike Ikenga accused the governor of disregarding court orders and acting against judicial processes.
“Our party expects the state government to respect court rulings and await the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the Assembly’s leadership,” Ikenga said, adding that Fubara’s actions threaten peace and development in the state.
This political rift continues to divide the Rivers State Assembly, overshadowing governance and development efforts.