Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who currently serves as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has revealed that the proposed ₦1.48 trillion budget for 2025 includes allocations in anticipation of the possible reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other displaced government officials.
Speaking before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee overseeing Rivers State affairs in Abuja on Wednesday, Ibas said 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.
He stated, “With the expectation that constitutional governance will soon be restored, the draft budget has preserved allocations for the roles and responsibilities of political officeholders 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.”
However, Ibas 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,” he explained.
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.”
Key highlights of the budget include ₦324.5 billion for infrastructure and transportation, ₦55 billion for the expansion of the state teaching hospital, ₦50 billion for improvements to zonal hospitals, and ₦38.85 billion earmarked for erosion control and shoreline protection.
Education projects are also featured, with ₦30 billion allocated for zonal secondary schools and ₦5.75 billion for primary school upgrades.
Social welfare initiatives are included, such as ₦2.5 billion for empowering women, ₦3 billion for youth-focused resource centres, ₦20 billion for supporting micro and small businesses through the state’s microfinance bank, and ₦117 billion set aside for pensions and retirement benefits.
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,” he concluded.
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