On Friday, November 29th, 2024, Abdullahi Sule, the Governor of Nasarawa State, presented a budget proposal amounting to N382.57 billion for the year 2025 to the state House of Assembly.
The governor characterized this proposal as the "Budget of Economic Growth and Stability," expressing confidence in the Assembly's prompt approval of the document.
The proposed budget is segmented into N159.97 billion (41.82%) allocated for recurrent expenditure and N222.60 billion (58.18%) designated for capital expenditure.
Governor Sule detailed allocations for critical sectors, including N80.14 billion for the Administrative Sector, N139.84 billion for the Economic Sector, N10.61 billion allocated for Law and Justice, and N151.97 billion earmarked for the Social Sector.
During his presentation, the governor acknowledged the contributions of Speaker Danladi Jatau and members of the Assembly for their sustained support in the enactment of appropriation bills.
He stated, "I appreciate this synergy and partnership in our collective commitment to providing purposeful leadership to the people of Nasarawa State."
The governor emphasized the budget's emphasis on economic recovery and development, highlighting significant funding for education, infrastructure, agriculture, health, security, and technology.
Specific allocations include N78.16 billion for Education, Science, and Information Communication Technology (ICT), N71.70 billion for Infrastructure, N50.75 billion for Governance, Security, and General Administration, N36.20 billion for Health, and N36.07 billion for Agriculture and Water Resources.
In his address, Governor Sule remarked on the advancements achieved in essential sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure, reaffirming his administration's commitment to address current economic challenges.
He stated, "I am pleased to inform you that the government is prepared to implement the new minimum wage to align with prevailing economic realities." The governor assured the lawmakers that the budget contains adequate provisions for implementing the minimum wage upon the submission of the committee's report.
In receiving the budget proposal, Speaker Jatau assured the governor of the Assembly's swift passage of the appropriation bill. He expressed, "The 7th Assembly, under my leadership, will ensure that we extend all necessary support to the state government to facilitate the execution of its policies and programs." Jatau commended the governor for the state's achievements in generating internal revenue, noting that Nasarawa has emerged as one of the few states exhibiting impressive annual figures in this regard. Additionally, he praised the governor for his efforts in solid minerals exploration, which has enhanced Nasarawa's global profile and attracted investors. He further recognized the improved security situation in the state, describing Nasarawa as one of the most peaceful states in the country.