Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, presented the state’s 2025 budget proposal of N605 billion to the House of Assembly on Tuesday, December 10, outlining his administration's vision of transforming Edo into a hub of development and prosperity.
The budget, titled “Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo,” marks a 25% increase over the 2024 budget. Governor Okpebholo disclosed that 37% (N223 billion) is allocated to recurrent expenditure, while 63% (N381 billion) will fund capital projects, reinforcing the state’s focus on infrastructure and development.
Key Allocations and Objectives
- Road Infrastructure: N162 billion for roads to improve connectivity and economic activities.
- Education: N48 billion, including a monthly subvention of N500 million to revive Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma.
- Healthcare: N63.9 billion to enhance access to quality medical services.
- Agriculture: N4.5 billion to bolster food production, mechanization, and farmland security.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the budget reflects his five-point agenda: security, infrastructure, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education. He also highlighted its alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring Edo State remains a beneficiary of national development efforts.
Commitment to Accountability
“The proposed appropriation bill is a product of wide consultations. It will ensure accountability and transparency in governance for responsive service delivery to the people of Edo State,” the governor said.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration's dedication to resolving community hostilities, enhancing peace, and advancing the state’s socio-economic development.
Legislative Support
The Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Chief Blessing Agbebaku, assured the governor of swift legislative action to ensure timely passage of the appropriation bill. He called on all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to cooperate with lawmakers, providing necessary documentation for budget review.
Agbebaku expressed optimism that the budget would bring tangible benefits to Edo residents, enhancing their quality of life and delivering the dividends of democracy.
