Zamfara Governor Signs ₦546 Billion 2025 Budget, Pledges Economic Revival
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has signed the 2025 appropriation bill of ₦546,014,575,000 into law. The “Rescue Budget 2.0” aims to revitalize the state’s economy and address longstanding challenges.
Budget Signing Ceremony
The Zamfara governor signed the budget at the Government House in Gusau. He reaffirmed his commitment to the rescue agenda. Lawal emphasized the budget’s role in continuing the work started over the past 18 months.
Budget Allocation Structure
The 2025 budget allocates 28% for recurrent expenditure and 72% for capital expenditure. This distribution focuses on long-term development and infrastructure projects.
Priority Areas
Key sectors for the 2025 fiscal year include security, education, health, infrastructure, and agriculture. These areas are crucial for addressing the state’s challenges and fostering sustainable growth.
Addressing Past Challenges in Zamfara
Governor Lawal described the state’s recent past as a decade of poor governance. He highlighted issues such as economic collapse, unpaid wages, and various social problems.
Minimum Wage Increase
The budget raises the minimum wage for civil servants from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. This increase aims to improve living standards and stimulate local economic activity.
Infrastructure Projects
The budget includes ongoing development of Gusau International Airport and construction of the Gusau-Magami to Dansadau Road. These projects will improve connectivity and foster economic growth.
Healthcare Initiatives
Plans include upgrading Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital to a teaching hospital. The budget also provides for new structures in general hospitals across several local government areas.
Security Measures
The administration has allocated funds for security equipment through a ‘security trust fund’. This initiative addresses the state’s history of security issues.
Education and Social Programs
The budget boosts education with plans for building schools through the Agile program. It also includes provisions for improving IDP shelter and enhancing livestock productivity.
Zamfara Governor’s Vision
Governor Lawal expressed optimism about the budget’s potential to transform Zamfara State. He declared it time for the state to overcome infrastructure decay and commit to quality development.
Looking Ahead
The comprehensive nature of the budget reflects the administration’s determination to create a more prosperous future. As implementation begins, all eyes will be on Zamfara State to see how these plans translate into tangible improvements.
