Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago has presented a proposed 2025 Budget of over N1.56 trillion to the State House of Assembly.
Gatekeepers News reports that the budget, titled “Budget of Hope for Sustainability and Food Security,” was presented at the Assembly complex in Minna on Thursday.
The 2025 Budget represents a 48.3 percent increase from the 2024 appropriation.
Over N196 billion is earmarked for recurrent expenditure, while more than N1.3 trillion constituting 87 percent of the total budget is allocated to capital expenditure.
Governor Umaru Bago noted that the budget was crafted based on Economic and Fiscal Update (EFU), Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), and Budget Statement (BPS) 2025–2027, as approved by the State Assembly.
He added, “Revenue projections are expected to come from statutory allocations, Value Added Tax (VAT), other Federation Account receipts, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and capital receipts.”
Furthermore, the Governor stated that, in the sectoral breakdown, the Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Renewal sector received the highest allocation, amounting to over N437 billion, while the Law and Justice sector received the least allocation, estimated at N3.5 billion.
Bago noted that the project aims to solidify agriculture as cornerstone of the state’s economy while promoting rapid socio-economic development.
The Governor emphasised that the current administration in the state is committed to sustainability, environmental health, and food security under its Green Initiative.
He added, “The emphasis on sustainability reflects our collective commitment to the Niger State Green Initiative and the promotion of agricultural systems that ensure long-term prosperity.”
Bago further said that the budget preparation followed a participatory and people-centered approach.
He called for the support and cooperation of all stakeholders, noting that the approved 2024 budget achieved a performance rate of 68.88 percent.
The Governor expressed optimism that the 2025 budget would receive the necessary backing to achieve its objectives.
He concluded, “Together, we can build the Niger State of our dreams, with equal opportunities for all. I remain indebted to Nigerlites for their unwavering support and steadfast commitment to our initiatives.”
Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. AbdulMalik Sarkin Dapolice, DSaji, commended the Governor for his prudent management of state resources that have brought about substantial developmental impacts.
Sarkin Daji commended the harmonious working relationship between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, noting that it has facilitated efficient decision-making and alignment on developmental priorities.
He reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to supporting the administration, expressing confidence that 2025 fiscal year would bring transformative developments that position Niger State as a model of progress and prosperity.
The event was attended by a high profile gathering of Niger state’s elite. Notable attendees included the Governor’s wife, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Bago, Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba, and members of the State Executive Council.
Others included judiciary members, traditional rulers led by the Emir of Borgu, heads of security organizations, religious leaders, journalists, and other distinguished guests.
