The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibak (rtd), has presented a revised ₦1.846 trillion budget to the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Oversight. This marks an increase of ₦360 billion from the ₦1.486 trillion previously submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
The updated budget prioritises security, pensions and gratuities, and major capital projects to boost economic growth and support entrepreneurship.
Senator Bamidele: “Pension Arrears Must Be Cleared”
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee, defended the increased allocation. He said the adjustments were necessary to tackle urgent challenges across the state.
One key highlight is the ₦50 billion allocated to settle pension and gratuity arrears. Bamidele described this move as both a moral duty and a step toward lasting peace.
“Those who served the state deserve their entitlements. This fund is a peace-building effort and a show of gratitude,” he said.
He also praised the structure of the revised budget, noting that over 70% focuses on capital projects, while less than 30% is set aside for overhead and recurrent costs.
“When we invest more in capital development, people will experience real progress,” Bamidele added.
Senate Vows to Track Every Naira
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also assured that the Ad-hoc Committee would monitor the budget’s execution closely. He promised that the Senate would ensure every approved project is carried out efficiently.
“Oversight goes beyond reading numbers. We’ll track project implementation, fund usage, and delivery outcomes,” he said.
He explained that the committee would return in the coming months to assess how well the state implements the budget.
“We want this budget to bring real improvements—better roads, schools, hospitals, and jobs,” he stressed.
“In uncertain political times, government actions must be lawful and people-focused. That’s how we restore trust in public institutions.”
