Drama In Abuja: Ibas Presents Massive ₦1.48 Trillion Rivers Budget To Lawmakers

Ibokette Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, on Tuesday presented a ₦1.48 trillion budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year to the House of Representatives. The bold plan seeks to revamp infrastructure, enhance social services, and promote inclusive growth in the oil-rich state, currently operating under a state of emergency.

During his presentation at the National Assembly in Abuja, Ibas highlighted the hurdles faced due to the lack of cooperation from suspended state officials, which he said disrupted the proper planning and documentation of first-quarter expenditures.

The proposed budget, which received presidential endorsement and is awaiting a Supreme Court verdict regarding its legality, outlines a revenue projection of ₦1.4 trillion. It aligns with the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027), emphasizing the state’s core development priorities.

“We in Rivers State deeply appreciate your unwavering support,” Ibas told lawmakers. “Unfortunately, some officials refused to provide essential financial data needed for a comprehensive report of already executed projects under the previous administration.”

Despite these challenges, the 2025 appropriation was revised to ratify earlier expenditures and ensure compliance with national fiscal standards. Ibas pledged transparency, accountability, and alignment with national priorities.

Key sectoral allocations in the budget include:

• ₦324.5 billion for infrastructure and transportation

• ₦55 billion for the relocation and expansion of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital

• ₦50 billion to upgrade zonal hospitals

• ₦38.85 billion for shoreline protection and erosion control

• ₦30 billion for zonal secondary school upgrades

• ₦5.75 billion for primary school rehabilitation

• ₦2.5 billion for women’s economic empowerment

• ₦3 billion for youth resource centres

• ₦20 billion to recapitalise Rivers State Microfinance Bank for MSME support

• ₦117 billion for pensions, gratuities, and employee benefits

“By God’s grace, any Rivers citizen with a brilliant, well-structured idea will have access to funding — no matter their background or political leaning,” Ibas affirmed.

Responding, House Committee Chairman on Rivers State Oversight, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, praised the proposal as well-structured and people-focused. He assured Ibas of legislative support to restore peace, progress, and stability in the state.

“This committee is fully committed to helping Rivers State regain its footing. The allocations for women, youths, and pensioners clearly show a focus on real impact,” Ihonvbere said.

He also emphasized the importance of proper legislative review, promising a rigorous budget defence process. “We won’t cut corners. We’ll invite your team to defend this budget thoroughly.”

The committee is expected to begin detailed budget scrutiny in the coming weeks, ensuring responsible governance and effective implementation, particularly under the ongoing emergency framework in Rivers State.