Governor Otti Presents N750 Billion 2025 Budget, Allocates 82% for Capital Projects
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has proposed a budget of ₦750 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, a 30% increase from 2024’s figures, reflecting his administration’s commitment to driving socio-economic transformation. Dubbed the “Budget of Sustained Momentum,” the proposal prioritizes capital projects, allocating ₦611.7 billion (82% of the total budget) to infrastructure and development initiatives.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Budget:
1. Capital Expenditure Focus:
₦13 billion earmarked for agro-industrial zones in Bende, Ukwa, and Umunneochi to enhance the agricultural sector.
Over ₦55 billion allocated for ongoing and new road projects across all 17 LGAs. Landmark road projects include:
Umuikaa-Umune-Omoba Road
Port Harcourt Road, Aba (completion expected in Q1 2025)
Ndi Okereke-Arochukwu Road
2. Health and Education:
35% of the budget directed toward health and education.
₦13 billion allocated to rehabilitate four general hospitals.
₦29.5 billion to secure 262 public schools with perimeter fencing.
₦14.6 billion for reading rooms and libraries in the state’s 184 wards to promote a reading culture.
3. Rural Development:
Construction of 170 km of rural roads, ensuring 10 km per LGA.
₦4 billion set aside to improve potable water supply under the Umuahia Regional Water Scheme.
4. Revenue Generation:
Governor Otti emphasized an ambitious plan to fund the budget by increasing internally generated revenue (IGR) by 213% to ₦100.6 billion, alongside statutory allocations, grants, and value-added tax (VAT). Borrowing will only be for strategic, self-sustaining projects.
Speaker’s Endorsement:
Abia Assembly Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa commended the governor’s strategic approach, highlighting the developmental strides achieved under the 2024 budget. He assured continued legislative support to propel Abia toward becoming an investment hub.
