Tinubu Submits N1.48 Trillion 2025 Budget for Rivers State Amid Political Turmoil
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally requested the National Assembly’s approval for a N1.481 trillion 2025 budget proposal for Rivers State — a region currently under federal control following a declared state of emergency.
The president’s request was presented during Thursday’s plenary by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. According to the budget breakdown, infrastructure tops the list with an allocation of N324 billion, followed by N166 billion earmarked for healthcare, N75.6 billion for education, and N31.4 billion for agriculture.
President Tinubu urged lawmakers to fast-track the passage of the appropriation bill, emphasising the urgency of restoring normalcy and development in the oil-rich but politically embattled state.
The budget proposal aligns with earlier remarks by Ibok-Ete Ibas, the former Chief of Naval Staff who was appointed as sole administrator of Rivers State in April. Ibas announced that a new budget was imminent and would prioritize education, healthcare, social services, and infrastructure — key areas now reflected in the president’s submission.
Political Backdrop: State of Emergency and Leadership Suspension
The budget proposal follows a turbulent period for Rivers State. On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, citing escalating political instability and reported attacks on critical oil infrastructure.
In a dramatic move, the president suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly for an initial period of six months. Ibas was subsequently appointed to oversee the state’s administration.
Since assuming control, Ibas has suspended all political appointees of the ousted governor — a decision that has sparked backlash from various quarters, including the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), which has voiced concerns over governance and transparency in the state.
