Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, recently encountered challenges while presenting the state’s proposed 2025 budget to the House of Assembly. The budget, valued at ₦605 billion, signifies a 25% increase from the previous year and is dubbed the “Budget of Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo.”
During his speech, the governor, representing the All Progressives Congress, visibly struggled with articulating the budget’s numerical details. Stumbling over the figures, he repeatedly corrected himself before finally stating, “₦605 billion… and the details of the proposal for your consideration.” This moment, captured in a viral video, sparked a stir among assembly members before Speaker Blessing Agbebaku restored order, urging for silence.
Budget Highlights
Governor Okpebholo revealed that ₦223 billion (37%) is earmarked for recurrent expenditures, while the remaining ₦381 billion (63%) will fund capital projects. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to its five-point agenda, which includes:
Security,
Infrastructure development,
Healthcare,
Food sufficiency, and
Education.
As part of the infrastructural focus, he announced plans for the construction of the Ramat Park flyover, a first-of-its-kind project aimed at modernizing Benin City and fostering economic growth through enhanced road connectivity.
Collaboration and Vision
The Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, pledged the assembly’s support, stating, “We will work closely with the governor to ensure that Edo people benefit fully from the dividends of democracy.”
Governor Okpebholo concluded by reiterating the extensive consultations that shaped the budget and assured citizens of his administration’s determination to achieve sustainable development for the state.
Discover more from Destkelamedia
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.