By Mubarak Aliyu Kobi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has presented the 2025 budget proposal to the State House of Assembly, outlining a strategic plan aimed at sustainable development and economic growth.
The proposed budget, totaling ₦465.855 billion, represents an 18% increase compared to the 2024 budget, which the governor said was implemented to about 80%. He attributed the increase in the 2025 Appropriation Bill to ongoing reforms and the impact of inflationary trends across the country.
Key sectors, including administrative, economic, justice, and social, were prioritized in the budget. Governor Mohammed disclosed that the social sector, encompassing education, healthcare, and welfare, will receive ₦166.938 billion, while ₦9.578 billion has been allocated to the justice sector.
The governor emphasized the administration’s commitment to completing ongoing projects and initiating new ones based on critical needs and their immediate impact. He noted that the budget prioritizes the implementation of the new minimum wage, the contributory pension scheme, and adherence to budgetary guidelines.
Governor Mohammed also highlighted the inclusive nature of the budget preparation process. Public hearings were conducted in the three senatorial zones to gather stakeholder input, and the Community Charter of Demand was adopted to address community-specific needs.
The budget includes an internally generated revenue projection of ₦50.028 billion, with an additional ₦78.5 billion expected from other sources. Capital receipts, comprising aid, grants, bonds, and other contributions, are projected at ₦172.441 billion.
The governor called on the assembly to expedite the passage of the budget to enable timely implementation of its programs and projects.
Responding, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Sulaiman, commended the executive for the timely submission of the budget. He assured the assembly’s commitment to its prompt consideration and approval in the interest of the people and the state.