Governor Buni Signs 2025 Budget Into Law

Governor Buni Signs 2025 Budget into Law

..Unveils Holistics Plans for Economic Growth and Development

By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman Damaturu

In a momentous occasion for Yobe State, Governor Mai Mala Buni has signed the 2025 finance and appropriation bills into law, finalizing a proposed budget of Three Hundred and Twenty Billion, Eight Hundred and Eleven Million Naira (N320,811,000.00) aimed at fostering economic consolidation and poverty reduction.

This marks a significant milestone, as the Yobe State House of Assembly passed the bills within two months of their submission, underscoring a swift and efficient legislative process.

Governor Buni praised the dedication and hard work of the Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, and all members of the Assembly for their commitment to ensuring the timely passage of the budget.

“You have demonstrated a strong commitment to serve our people, placing the state’s interests first,” the Governor said during the signing ceremony.

While the Assembly made a minor adjustment of reducing the budget by N15 million, the Governor welcomed the change, noting that it was in line with current economic realities, further ensuring that the budget would be both practical and reflective of the state’s financial situation.

The Governor outlined key priorities for the upcoming year, emphasizing the completion of ongoing projects, the initiation of new ones, and the fulfillment of campaign promises. These initiatives, he affirmed, would focus on people-oriented programs aimed at driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.

Strategic Investment and Infrastructure Development

Yobe State has identified key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure for targeted investment. The Governor announced plans to attract international investment in agriculture and livestock, capitalizing on the state’s abundant natural resources to generate employment and stimulate economic growth.

“We have commenced discussions with reputable local and international organizations to harness these potentials,” he revealed. “This will create wealth and employment opportunities for our people.”

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

A strong advocate for transparent governance, Governor [Name] reiterated the state’s commitment to accountability and fiscal responsibility. He highlighted Yobe’s recent recognition as the best-performing state in transparency, having received the prestigious World Bank-assisted State Fiscal Transparency Accountability and Sustainability (SIFTAS) award.

“Yobe State is committed to maintaining this legacy,” he assured the public, encouraging the newly appointed leadership of the State Fiscal Responsibility Commission and the Board of Internal Revenue to prioritize fiscal discipline and efficient revenue generation.

Job Creation and Empowerment Programs

In a bid to reduce unemployment, the Yobe State government has already employed 2,670 graduates across the state’s 178 political wards, alongside offering financial support to flood victims and small-scale entrepreneurs.

Additionally, the Governor lauded the 500 beneficiaries of a post-conflict recovery initiative, who were trained in producing household items such as soaps, shoes, detergents, and disinfectants.

These individuals will receive NGN100,000 each and start-up kits to launch their businesses, contributing to local entrepreneurship and economic stability.

“This program empowers women and youth, who constitute 70% and 30% of the beneficiaries respectively,” the Governor noted. “It’s not just about providing a grant; it’s about creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering long-term economic resilience.”

He also urged the business community to support the beneficiaries by purchasing their locally made products, reinforcing the importance of community-driven economic growth.

Ensuring Project Quality and Accountability

The Governor issued a stern reminder to supervising engineers attached to government projects to ensure strict adherence to specifications and contractual agreements.

He further emphasized that the Project Monitoring Committee, led by Engr. Zaji Bunu, would intensify efforts to monitor and oversee projects, ensuring timely completion and high-quality execution.

“We will not tolerate any lapse in project execution,” the Governor warned. “If necessary, we will engage external experts to ensure the government gets value for money.”

Looking Ahead

As the new year begins, Governor Mai Mala Buni expressed optimism that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the goals laid out in the 2025 budget would be achieved. With a focus on economic empowerment, infrastructure development, and transparency, the Governor is committed to advancing Yobe State toward a brighter future.

“I thank you all for your continued support, and Insha Allah, we shall succeed,” he concluded.