Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has presented the 2025 budget proposal to the Abia State House of Assembly, with an ambitious plan to continue the developmental momentum initiated during his administration’s first 18 months.
Speaking on December 10, 2024, in Umuahia, the Governor proposed a budget of ₦750.3 billion, a 30% increase from the 2024 fiscal year.
Key Highlights
1. Infrastructure and Development Focus
The 2025 budget allocates 82% of the total outlay (₦611.7 billion) to capital projects, reflecting the administration’s commitment to socioeconomic transformation. Major allocations include:
- ₦55 billion for road construction and rehabilitation, including rural roads to boost agricultural productivity.
- ₦4 billion for the revamping of the Umuahia Regional Water Scheme.
- ₦29.5 billion for perimeter fencing in 262 schools to enhance safety.
- ₦13 billion for agro-industrial processing zones in Bende, Ukwa, and Umunneochi local government areas.
Governor Otti highlighted the ongoing transformation of key urban centers, including Aba and Umuahia, citing completed and ongoing road projects as evidence of progress.
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2. Health and Education Priority
A combined 35% of the budget will be allocated to health and education, with specific projects including:
- Rehabilitation of 200 primary healthcare facilities across the state.
- Construction of new sites for tertiary institutions, including the Abia State College of Health Science and Management Technology.
- Investment in libraries and reading rooms in all 184 wards to revive the reading culture.
3. Economic Growth and Investment
Governor Otti revealed that Abia has become one of Nigeria’s top three destinations for foreign investment, following Lagos and Abuja. A notable highlight is a $120 million agro-investment agreement aimed at palm produce processing, which is projected to create 11,000 jobs.
4. Financial Prudence and Revenue Generation
The Governor emphasized financial discipline, noting that the state has maintained zero indebtedness to contractors and is working to reduce inherited debts. The 2025 budget projects a 213% increase in internally generated revenue (IGR) and a 51% reliance on borrowing for capital projects only, with assurances of responsible debt management.
5. Social Welfare Commitment
To address the needs of vulnerable groups, ₦18.9 billion has been earmarked for social benefits, ensuring that no community or demographic is left behind in the state’s development drive.
Governor’s Vision for 2025
Governor Otti termed the 2025 fiscal plan as a “Budget of Sustained Momentum,” aiming to consolidate the achievements of the past 18 months while addressing economic challenges such as inflation and currency instability. He called for the continued support and collaboration of the legislature and Ndi Abia in realizing the state’s ambitious goals.
The proposed budget is expected to undergo legislative review before its adoption.
