The governors of Yobe, Gombe, and Bayelsa states took a significant step on Monday by officially enacting their respective state budgets. This action marks an important milestone in the governance of these states as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.
In Yobe State, Governor Mai Mala Buni signed the 2025 finance and appropriation bill into law. He highlighted that this year’s budget, dubbed “Economic Consolidation and Poverty Reduction,” is designed to drive economic development through various empowerment initiatives aimed at uplifting the community.
Governor Buni expressed his satisfaction with the swift approval of the bills by the House of Assembly, which took less than two months. He emphasized the importance of this signing ceremony as a means to establish a legal framework for the state’s expenditures for the year 2025.
“Our administration is committed to the responsible use and investment of our resources,” Governor Buni stated. He elaborated that the focus would be on people-oriented programs and projects, particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure development, wealth creation, and empowerment.
In Gombe State, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya also made headlines by signing the state’s N369.9 billion 2025 Appropriation Bill into law. During the signing ceremony, he referred to the budget as a strategic blueprint aimed at fostering economic growth and social development within the state.
Governor Yahaya pointed out that the appropriation law reflects his administration’s determination to enhance its development agenda. He stressed that the budget prioritizes sectors that have a direct impact on the lives of citizens, ensuring that the government addresses the needs of the populace effectively.
Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri signed the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill, which had been passed by the House of Assembly. On October 31, 2024, he presented an initial budget estimate of N689,440,348,916.30, which the assembly later increased by N10,132,818,675, bringing the total to N699,573,167,592.
During the signing ceremony, Governor Diri remarked that completing the signing of the bill before the end of the current year aligns with his administration’s policy of operating its budget from January to December. This approach demonstrates a commitment to timely governance.
Furthermore, Governor Diri emphasized that this initiative reflects his administration’s dedication to transparency and good governance. By ensuring that the budget process is completed efficiently, he aims to build trust with the citizens of Bayelsa State.
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In summary, the actions of the governors in Yobe, Gombe, and Bayelsa states underscore a collective commitment to economic development and social welfare. Through their respective budgets, they aim to address the pressing needs of their citizens while promoting a framework for sustainable growth in the coming year.