Edo State Governor Presents N605 Billion 2025 Budget Proposal

By Joy Richardson

Edo State Governor Presents N605 Billion 2025 Budget Proposa

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday, presented the 2025 budget proposal of approximately N605 billion to the State House of Assembly. Tagged the “Budget of Renew Hope for a Rising Edo,” the proposal marks a 25% increase from the 2024 budget.

While presenting the budget, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the appropriation aligns with his five-point agenda: security, infrastructural development, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education. He also stated that the budget is in line with the federal government’s Renew Hope agenda.

“The 2025 appropriation is designed to achieve the goals of my five-point agenda while contributing to the Renew Hope agenda of Mr. President. This budget will integrate seamlessly with the state’s long-term development plans, forming the foundation of our administration in 2025,” he said.

The proposed budget prioritizes capital expenditure, which accounts for 63% of the total amount, while recurrent expenditure takes up 37%. This demonstrates the administration’s focus on development and infrastructure.

Key allocations include road infrastructure (N162 billion), education (N48 billion), healthcare (N63.9 billion), and health insurance (N1.8 billion).

Dr. Bartholomew Okoudo, President of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations in Edo State, commended the proposed budget as “people-oriented.” Speaking during a live program, Political Insights, Dr. Okoudo praised Governor Okpebholo’s inclusive approach to budget preparation, noting that civil society groups were consulted prior to its presentation. “Recurrent expenditure taking 37% and capital expenditure at 63% is commendable. It shows the government is prioritizing development. This budget is a product of wide consultation, which reflects Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to inclusivity,” Dr. Okoudo remarked.

Dr. Okoudo acknowledged that it is too early to fully assess the governor’s administration, but he applauded some significant steps taken within the first month in office. These include reinstating staff disengaged by the previous administration at Ambrose Alli University and approving the payment of 33 months’ salary arrears, returning disputed Okruman lands to their original owners, embarking on road construction projects such as the rehabilitation of Opamishon Road, and lifting levies on market associations to ease the burden on traders. However, he advised against excessive criticism of the previous administration, emphasizing the need for continuity. “What was done well by the previous government should be consolidated upon, and what was not done well should be corrected,” he said.

The allocation of N162 billion to road infrastructure was described as vital for improving the state’s deplorable road network. Dr. Okoudo noted that poor road conditions hinder economic activities, increase food prices, and impede security operations in rural areas. The N48 billion allocated to education received praise, particularly for its focus on revamping dilapidated schools, recruiting 5,000 teachers, and improving facilities in public schools. Governor Okpebholo has already visited several neglected schools and promised that rehabilitation work will commence in the coming weeks.

The N63.9 billion allocation to healthcare was hailed as a step toward better health services. Dr. Okoudo commended the governor’s decision to bring the Stella Obasanjo Hospital under direct state supervision and to revitalize other healthcare facilities across local governments. He also emphasized the importance of consolidating on the past administration’s achievements in primary healthcare and health insurance schemes.

Dr. Okoudo expressed optimism about the state’s development under Governor Okpebholo, asserting that Edo is not just rising but growing steadily. He urged the governor to build on the successes of the previous administration, which brought Edo State to national and international prominence. “The past administration placed Edo State on the global map, with international recognition for its policies and systems. The new government must sustain and enhance this momentum,” he said.

The 2025 budget now awaits deliberation and approval by the State House of Assembly, with stakeholders urging a speedy passage to facilitate prompt implementation.