Rivers State Prepares New Budget Amid Supreme Court Decision

Rivers State Moves Forward with New Budget Plan

Naija News has learned that Vice-Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), the sole administrator of Rivers State, has announced plans to draft a new budget following the Supreme Court's decision to invalidate the state's 2025 budget. This move comes after a high-level meeting with a delegation from the Rivers Caucus of the National Assembly at the Government House in Port Harcourt last Thursday. The announcement reflects the administration's commitment to addressing the needs of Rivers State residents and ensuring progress despite the setback.

Key Priorities in the New Budget

During the meeting, Ibas outlined the new budget's focus areas, emphasizing crucial sectors such as education, healthcare, social services, and infrastructure development. These priorities mirror those highlighted in the nullified 2025 budget, underscoring the administration's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Rivers State citizens. "We have acted swiftly in response to the Supreme Court verdict," Ibas explained, "and are putting together a new budget that reflects our dedication to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development." The administration is determined to ensure that these vital investments are made without delay, even amidst the challenges posed by the recent ruling.

Commitment to Transparency and Inclusivity

Ibas assured attendees of the meeting that the process of drafting the new budget would be both transparent and inclusive. The goal, he explained, is to ensure that no time is lost in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of Rivers State residents. "Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making necessary investments that will improve the lives of our citizens," Ibas reiterated. The new budget will also focus on creating job opportunities, boosting agriculture, infrastructure, and technology, reflecting the administration's holistic approach to development.

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Seeking Legislative Support

The 10-member delegation, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, who represents the Rivers South-East Senatorial District, included other notable figures such as Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, and Dumnamene Dekor. Ibas appealed to the Rivers State lawmakers in the National Assembly for their continued support in securing resources and legislative backing for the new budget. "As I have earlier stated," he emphasized, "we need your support as the key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring this initiative to fruition." The partnership between the state administration and the National Assembly is critical to ensuring the state remains on the path of progress and peace.

Addressing Security Concerns

In addition to the new budget, Ibas discussed the security situation in the state, particularly in light of the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Rivers State, noting that the declaration of the State of Emergency was a necessary measure to address the insecurity threatening the fabric of local communities. "Our state has faced difficult challenges, especially with the declaration of the State of Emergency," Ibas said, adding, "This was a necessary measure to address the insecurity that threatened the very fabric of our communities." The administration has praised the progress made in restoring peace, crediting the federal government, security agencies, and the resilience of the people of Rivers State. "We have made notable progress in restoring peace and stability to our great state," Ibas noted.

Building Unity and Trust

Ibas reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring lasting peace, emphasizing that efforts to restore law and order are being carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian military, police, and other security agencies. "Our goal has been to create an environment where our citizens can live in safety and pursue their livelihoods without fear," he added. Beyond security, the administration is focusing on community engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation. "Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people," Ibas explained. "We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected." He also highlighted the critical role of the Rivers State Caucus of the National Assembly in supporting the administration's peace-building initiatives and ensuring that these efforts are sustained.

Looking Ahead: Economic Stability and Development

As Rivers State moves forward, Ibas emphasized the importance of economic stability and development alongside peace and security initiatives. "We are deeply grateful for the support you have provided so far," he said. "But we must continue to work together to ensure that this process is sustained and that Rivers State remains a model of peace, unity, and progress for the entire nation." The administration's vision for the future is clear: to create a state where every citizen can thrive, regardless of the challenges faced. With the support of the National Assembly and the resilience of its people, Rivers State is poised to overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger than ever.