The Rivers State Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas yesterday unfolded plans to release a new budget for the state, following the declaration of emergency rule.
He also announced the cancellation of pending procurement and tender processes in adherence to the Appeal Court judgment.
Ibas, who hosted a delegation of the Rivers Caucus of the National Assembly at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital, said the new budget would focus on education, healthcare, social services and infrastructural development.
The delegation, which was led by Senator Barinads Mpigi (Rivers South-East), included Senator Senator Allwell Onyesoh; House of Representatives Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda; Dumnamene Dekor, and Solomon Bob, Cyril Godwin Hart, Blessing Amadi, Felix Nwaeke, Kelechi Nwogu, and Victor Obuzor.
Explaining the scope of the budget, Ibas said: “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services and the continued infrastructural development.
“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive and most importantly expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.”
He added: “The budget, which is being finalised, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and technology.
“We understand the urgency of this initiative and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay. But, we cannot do this alone.
“We need your support as the key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring this initiative to fruition.
“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the part of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”
Hailing the federal lawmaker’s decision to visit him the administrator said it reflected “our shared commitments to the progress, peace and prosperity of our beloved Rivers State”.
