The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Mr. Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Tuesday unveiled a proposed ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget before the House of Representatives, outlining an ambitious plan to rebuild infrastructure, enhance social services, and promote inclusive growth under the state’s current emergency governance framework.
The budget proposal, backed by a projected ₦1.4 trillion revenue estimate, was transmitted to the National Assembly following presidential approval and the Supreme Court’s verdict on the legality of the 2025 appropriation process. It aligns with the Rivers State Development Plan 2017–2027.
During his presentation, Ibas thanked the House committee for its commitment, saying, “We in Rivers State are most grateful for your commitment. Despite your tight schedules, you have shown unwavering resolve to fulfil your constitutional duties.”
However, Ibas lamented a lack of cooperation from some suspended state officials, which he said hindered accurate budget formulation.
“Regrettably, some state officials withheld critical information required to ensure a more complete capture of expenditures already undertaken during the first quarter of the fiscal year by the suspended administration.”
Despite these challenges, Ibas explained that the proposed budget was carefully revised to legally ratify existing expenditures and maintain transparency in line with national standards.
Key Allocations in the 2025 Budget Include:₦324.5 billion for infrastructure and transportation, ₦55 billion for relocating and expanding Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, ₦50 billion for upgrading zonal hospitals, ₦38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control, ₦30 billion for zonal secondary schools and ₦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
“God willing, every Rivers citizen with a great idea, carefully thought out and well-planned, will find the funding required to turn their dreams into successful ventures, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity, or political divide,” Ibas said.
In response, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, commended Ibas for his clarity and fiscal focus.
“I want to especially thank you and let you know that this committee is committed to working with you to restore stability, peace, growth, and development in Rivers State. Rivers has always been a shining example of what is possible with good leadership.”
Ihonvbere assured thorough scrutiny of the proposal.
“We will scrutinise the budget. We will invite you to send your relevant officials for a proper defence of the budget. Since we are committed to joining hands with you to get Rivers State back on track, we are not going to cut corners.”
He also praised the social welfare components, particularly pensions and women-focused initiatives.
“These are areas that touch people’s lives, and we know the plight of their families. We appreciate you for making these bold commitments.”
The committee is expected to commence in-depth budget defence sessions in the coming weeks, ensuring transparency, accountability, and alignment with the emergency governance mandate.
