By Ayodele Oni
Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has revealed that there were frustrations in the course of thr preparation of the 2025 budget for the State.
Ibas, who proposed ₦1.48 trillion budget for 2025 before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee overseeing Rivers State affairs in Abuja on Wednesday, pointed out that his Administration faced challenges during budget preparation due to a lack of cooperation from certain officials.
“Unfortunately, there was reluctance from some state actors to provide essential financial data, which limited our ability to fully reflect all expenditures.
“Still, we have ensured that all available financial information was included, maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility under the state of emergency.”
In anticipation of early return of suspended political office holders including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the budget includes allocations for their offices.
“With the expectation that constitutional governance will soon be restored, the draft budget has preserved allocations for the roles and responsibilities of political office holders currently on suspension.
“Some of these individuals have already accessed public funds during the first quarter and may return to their positions once the emergency situation ends.”
Ibas pointed out that the budget proposal aligns with the broader goals outlined in the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027), which focuses on boosting revenue, improving infrastructure, developing human resources, and fostering inclusive growth.
The proposed spending plan, which anticipates generating ₦1.4 trillion in revenue, was forwarded to the National Assembly following presidential assent and a Supreme Court ruling affirming the legality of the appropriation process under the current governance structure in Rivers.
In his opening remarks, Ibas expressed appreciation to lawmakers for their support and dedication, saying, “We in Rivers State value your efforts and commitment to your constitutional responsibilities, especially given your demanding schedules.”
Responding to the presentation, Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee and House Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, commended Ibas for presenting a thorough and transparent budget.
“This committee is ready to collaborate with you to restore peace, stability, and sustainable development in Rivers State,” Ihonvbere said.
“We will thoroughly examine this budget and invite your team for further defence. While we are committed to supporting progress, we will also ensure due diligence is followed.”
He also highlighted the importance of the budget’s provisions for pensions and women’s empowerment, noting that such measures have a direct impact on citizens’ lives.
“These components show compassion and foresight. They represent real efforts to meet the needs of the people.”
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