Governor Alex Otti has presented a proposed 2025 budget of N750.28 billion to the Abia State House of Assembly. Tagged “Sustaining the Momentum,” the budget prioritizes infrastructure, agriculture, and education, marking a 30% increase from 2024.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has unveiled an ambitious ₦750.28 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year, outlining plans to sustain the momentum of his administration’s achievements over the past 18 months. Speaking on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the State House of Assembly in Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized that the budget aims to build on the state’s progress and address critical developmental needs.
The budget, titled “Sustaining the Momentum,” marks a 30% increase from the 2024 budget of ₦523 billion. Of the proposed total, ₦611.7 billion (82%) is earmarked for capital projects, while ₦138.6 billion (18%) will cover recurrent expenditures, including personnel costs, social benefits, overheads, and debt servicing.
Highlights of the Governor’s Presentation
- Achievements in 2024: A Foundation for Growth
Governor Otti began by acknowledging the collaboration with the State House of Assembly, which he credited for enabling significant milestones, including:
Infrastructure Development: Completion of key road projects in Aba, Umuahia, and rural areas, including the Port Harcourt, Omuma, and Ohanku Roads.
Public Building Renovation: Upgrades to secretariat complexes, Michael Okpara Auditorium, and other public structures to improve work environments.
Debt Reduction and Economic Growth: The state has cleared contractor debts while attracting significant foreign investments, placing Abia among the top three destinations for investments in Nigeria.
Improved Governance: Regular and prompt payment of salaries and pensions, including a 13th-month package for workers.
- Priority Areas for 2025
Infrastructure Expansion
The administration plans to invest over ₦55 billion in road construction and rehabilitation across the 17 local government areas. Highlights include:
- Umuikaa-Omoba, Ohanze-Abala, and Umueze-Ahiaeke Roads.
- Construction of 170 km of rural roads, targeting 10 km per LGA to boost connectivity and economic activities.
Agricultural Development
The budget includes ₦13 billion for establishing agro-industrial zones in Bende, Ukwa, and Umunneochi LGAs. These zones aim to:
- Enhance food processing capabilities.
- Create jobs and generate foreign currency revenue.
- Additionally, a $120 million partnership for palm produce development is set to create over 11,000 jobs directly and indirectly.
Healthcare
The administration is finalizing the renovation of 200 primary healthcare facilities, ensuring no community is left behind. The initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to universal health access.
Education
Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to education, emphasizing investments in infrastructure and personnel training to enhance learning outcomes.
Security and Justice
With restored peace in previously volatile areas, the state is also constructing 17 modern court complexes equipped with advanced facilities to promote efficient justice delivery.
Urban Transformation
The government is transforming Umuahia and Aba into urban hubs, with focus areas including ICT, industrial manufacturing, education, and healthcare.
Vision for Economic Stability
Acknowledging challenges such as inflation and exchange rate instability, Governor Otti outlined measures to mitigate their impacts. His administration is optimistic about fostering a more stable economic environment in 2025.
Governor’s Commitment to the People
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s dedication to the “people-first” agenda, ensuring Abians enjoy the dividends of democracy through prudent resource management and impactful projects. He expressed gratitude for the trust and support of the people and urged continued collaboration to achieve shared goals.
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