On Monday, the Delta government approved transmitting the N936 billion proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year to the parliament for further deliberation.

The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this while briefing journalists on some of the decisions reached at the end of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba.

Mr Ekedayen was flanked by his counterparts for information, Ifeanyi Osuoza, works (rural and riverine roads), Charles Aniagwu and Riverine Infrastructure, and Ebikeme Clark.

The economic planning commissioner said the proposed budget comprised N587.4 billion, representing 62.75 per cent for Capital Expenditure, while N348.7 billion, representing 37.25 per cent, was for Recurrent Expenditure.

He said the 2025 proposed budget was premised on an exchange rate of N1,300 per dollar.

“The budget size is N936 billion, broken down into capital and recurrent components of N587.3 billion capital, representing 62.75 per cent, while the recurrent component is N348.7 billion, representing 37.25 per cent.

“This budget reflects our commitment to key sectors with a balanced approach between recurrent and capital expenditures. This 2025 proposal is 29.12 per cent larger than the current year 2024 budget, demonstrating our dedication to advancing the state’s development.

“Our focus areas remain clear: agriculture; support for micro, small, and medium enterprises; youth empowerment; tourism; entertainment; social safety nets through poverty alleviation; physical infrastructure; healthcare; and education,” he explained.

Mr Ekedayen added, “While this provides an overview of the proposed budget, it is still subject to review and will be officially transmitted to the State House of Assembly for further deliberation.” 

According to him, Mr Oborevwori’s administration is anchored on transparency and accountability, the 2025 budget will be 100 per cent organically funded without any borrowing.

(NAN)