Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has taken a significant step in steering the state towards development by presenting the 2024 budget proposal totaling N199.9 billion to the State House of Assembly for deliberation and approval. The budget, which reflects the governor’s unwavering commitment to the state’s progress, received a positive reception from the Acting Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abel Bala, who pledged swift consideration for its passage.
In his address to the Assembly in Lafia, Governor Sule articulated his vision for the state, emphasizing that the budget, if ratified, would not only sustain ongoing projects but also facilitate the commencement of new endeavors essential for the holistic advancement of Nasarawa State. He underscored the principles underpinning his administration, highlighting transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law as non-negotiable tenets crucial to the state’s growth.
With palpable enthusiasm, Governor Sule christened the 2024 Budget as the “Budget of Renewed Commitment,” signifying his administration’s unwavering dedication to uplifting the state. The budget breakdown revealed that 56% of the total allocation, amounting to N112,925,350,954.18, is earmarked for recurrent expenditure, while the remaining 44%, totaling N86,954,019,755.50, is allocated to capital expenditure.
Notably, the budget allocation for various sectors paints a comprehensive picture of the state’s developmental priorities. Key sectors such as education, health, environment, local government, finance, trade and investment, science and technology, works, water resources, lands and urban development, state assembly, and information, culture, and tourism have been allocated substantial funds, catering to the diverse needs of the populace.
Governor Sule’s unwavering commitment to actualizing the budget’s provisions was evident in his assurance of its full implementation upon passage. This assurance resonated with his administration’s overarching focus on infrastructure development to enhance the standard of living for the people of Nasarawa State. Furthermore, the governor’s announcement of the employment of 3500 secondary school teachers underscores his determination to bolster the state’s educational landscape.
In a resounding display of commendation, the Acting Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon Abel Bala, lauded Governor Sule for his exemplary presentation of the budget and congratulated him on his well-deserved elevation to the status of a Fellow, Nigeria Society of Engineers. The acknowledgment of Governor Sule’s transparent and disciplined financial stewardship further underscored the prevailing sentiment of appreciation within the Assembly.
As the state’s journey towards economic self-sufficiency and infrastructural development continues, the Acting Speaker’s remarks shed light on the state’s revenue generation and infrastructural progress while commending the former Speaker, Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, for his instrumental role in advancing the state’s legislative agenda.
The unwavering commitment to expedite the passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill before December 31st, 2023, serves as a testament to the Assembly’s dedication to driving progress and transformation in Nasarawa State.
This pivotal moment in the state’s governance echoes the resolve to uphold transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, fostering an environment conducive to progress and prosperity for all citizens. Governor Abdullahi Sule’s vision, encapsulated in the 2024 budget proposal, signals a definitive stride towards realizing the state’s vast potential and securing a prosperous future for generations to come.
