Taraba state Governor Agbu Kefas has presented a total sum of N429.8 billion for 2015 fiscal year to Taraba state house of assembly with a special focus on education, job creation, infrastructures, and agriculture.
The budget which was laid on the floor of the State Assembly on Monday is tagged, “Budget of transportation.
Kefas explained that it encapsulated the vision to build a more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable state, stating that the budget if signed into law will reposition the state to achieve the moving forward agenda of his administration.
He said N266.12 billion, representing 61.5 per cent of the total amount, was set aside for capital expenditure, while N163.78 billion, representing 38.1 per cent of the estimate, was earmarked as recurrent expenditure.
The governor noted that the recurrent expenditure includes personnel costs and overhead costs, while capital expenditure relates to the cost of infrastructures and other developmental projects.
He further explained that the budget is anchored on strategic investment and is tailored to drive growth and enhance the quality of life of the people of the state.
According to the governor, the 2025 budget estimate was carefully prepared to consolidate the gains of the 2024 budget with strategic priority to education, job creation, infrastructures, agriculture, security, and tourism, among others.
He added that the Taraba Master Development Plan will be the working document of the state in 2025.
The Speaker of Taraba State House of Assembly, Hon John Kizito Bonzena, in his address of welcome, commended the leadership of the governor, saying he has embarked on construction, remodelling and reconstruction of several projects within and outside the state.
He assured that the 10th Assembly would give the bill an accelerated hearing for timely passage.
The budget presentation ceremony was attended by deputy governor Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, chief of staff Government House Dr Jeji Williams, commissioners, head of security agencies and senior government officials, among others.