The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Mr. Ibok-Ete Ibas, on Wednesday presented the proposed ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget before the House of Representatives, outlining a bold fiscal roadmap aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing social services, and steering the state toward inclusive development amid ongoing emergency governance.
In a formal presentation to the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, Ibas revealed that the proposed budget—approved by the presidency and transmitted to the National Assembly following a Supreme Court ruling—seeks to consolidate progress under the Rivers State Development Plan 2017–2027.
“We in Rivers State are most grateful for your commitment… Despite your tight schedules, you have shown unwavering resolve to fulfil your constitutional duties,” Ibas told lawmakers in his opening remarks.
Budget at a Glance
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Total Expenditure: ₦1.48 trillion
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Projected Revenue: ₦1.4 trillion
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Focus Areas: Infrastructure, education, healthcare, MSME support, and social welfare.
Ibas lamented that some suspended state officials failed to provide key financial information from earlier in the year, complicating efforts to fully account for Q1 expenditures.
“Regrettably, some state officials withheld critical information required to ensure a more complete capture of expenditures already undertaken,” he said, adding that the budget had been revised to lawfully ratify past spending and align with national appropriation standards.
Key Allocations
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₦324.5 billion – Infrastructure and transportation projects
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₦55 billion – Relocation and expansion of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital
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₦50 billion – Upgrades to zonal hospitals
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₦38.85 billion – Shoreline protection and erosion control
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₦30 billion – Construction of zonal secondary schools
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₦5.75 billion – Rehabilitation of primary schools
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₦2.5 billion – Women’s economic empowerment programs
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₦3 billion – Youth resource centers
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₦20 billion – Recapitalisation of Rivers State Microfinance Bank for MSMEs
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₦117 billion – Pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits
“God willing, every Rivers citizen with a great idea… will find the funding required to turn their dreams into successful ventures, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity, or political divide,” Ibas declared.
Lawmakers Commend Effort, Pledge Oversight
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Chairman of the House Committee on Rivers State Oversight, lauded the administrator for the clarity and ambition of the presentation. He assured that the legislature would work collaboratively to restore governance and peace in the state.
“Rivers has always been a shining example of what is possible with good leadership. This committee is committed to joining hands with you to get Rivers State back on track,” Ihonvbere said.
He, however, stressed the importance of thorough budget scrutiny, warning against hasty approvals.
“We will scrutinise the budget… We are not going to cut corners. Relevant officials will be invited to defend the budget line by line.”
Ihonvbere particularly praised the social welfare provisions, noting their significance to vulnerable populations in the state.
“These are areas that touch people’s lives… We appreciate you for making these bold commitments.”
What’s Next?
The budget proposal now heads into defence sessions over the coming weeks. Lawmakers will interrogate the figures and implementation plans to ensure fiscal responsibility, accountability, and impactful delivery under the special governance structure currently in place in Rivers State.
The presentation marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to stabilize the oil-rich state amid its political crisis and governance transition.
