Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma has presented a budget of N755.6 billion to the State House of Assembly for consideration and approval. While presenting the budget, Governor Uzodimma stated that the budget tagged: “Budget of expanded economic opportunities” is 27.6 percent higher than the 2024 budget.
Uzodimma explained that the capital expenditure gulped 643.3 billion naira representing 85.1 percent while 112.3 billion naira is alloted to recurrent expenditure, representing 14.9 per cent of the budget. The governor further said that infrastructure sector got the biggest share with a sum of 296.4 billion naira representing, 46 per cent followed by transport sector with a sum of 101 billion naira, representing 16 percent of the budget.
Power and electrification received 74.7 billion naira, which represents 12 percent of the total budget. Tourism and hospitality got 30.2 billion naira, which represents 5 percent while health got 22.9 billion naira, representing 4 percent of the budget.
Ministry of Environment and sanitation received 21.1 billion naira which represents 3 percent while ministry of livestock development got 20 billion naira which represents 3 percent. The ministry of agriculture and food security got 12 billion naira representing 2 percent. The housing sector and educational sector got 7.8billion naira and 7.4 billion naira representing 1.2 percent and 1 percent respectively.
While outlining his administration’s achievements, he said, “I am proud to say that, despite the tough economic and financial challenges, we have faithfully implemented the 2024 budget. Our commitment to transparency and accountability remains unwavering.”
He highlighted several key projects, including the ongoing flyover at Assumpta roundabout, the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, and the dualization of the Owerri-Umuahia road. “These projects demonstrate our dedication to improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for Imo citizens,” Uzodimma added.
Uzodimma also mentioned the upgrade and renovation of the state public health laboratory and the construction of a brand-new central drug store. “We are committed to providing quality healthcare services to our people,” he emphasized.
The governor also discussed his administration’s efforts to promote youth empowerment through the Skill-up COHORT-3 programme. “We believe in investing in our youth, equipping them with skills to drive economic growth,” Uzodimma said.
Regarding aviation, he mentioned the installation of CAT 2 Airfield lighting system for night flights at the Sam Mbakwe International Airport. “This upgrade enhances safety and facilitates economic development,” Uzodimma explained. Governor Uzodimma reassured Ndi Imo of his commitment to a transparent and accountable government during the 2025 budget presentation.
“Let me use this auspicious opportunity to reassure Imo people that I remain resolutely committed to an accountable and transparent government. I will never renege on my covenant with God to serve you honestly and faithfully. I would like to be remembered as that governor who kept his word and served to the best of his ability. I would like to be remembered as that governor who left enduring legacies behind. I would like history to remember me, not as the most popular governor but as the governor who put all the energy at his behest to translate his vision of making Imo State a viable economic and industrial entity, a reality.
“I would like generations unborn to remember me as the governor who utilized the resources of the state to make life better for the majority. These are my goals, and I know that I will meet them by the grace of God.” the governor stated.
