From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has presented a budget proposal of N486,218,047,600 for the 2025 fiscal year to the Adamawa State House of Assembly.
While presenting the estimated appropriation bill, titled the “Budget of Service,” Governor Fintiri highlighted that the budget is 100% higher than the 2024 budget.
He explained that of the total N486 billion, recurrent expenses will amount to N137 billion (28.23%), while the remaining N348 billion (71.77%) will be allocated to capital projects.
Governor Fintiri noted that, “My administration is committed to achieving its eight-point agenda, which includes security, infrastructure development, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education. Extensive consultations have been held in the creation of this budget.”
The Governor revealed that N88 billion has been earmarked for road construction across the state, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to improving Adamawa’s transport network.
“We recognize the vital importance of linking towns with passable roads to facilitate rapid economic expansion,” he stated.
On education, Fintiri stressed the need to enhance the system from elementary to tertiary institutions. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving higher education, stating, “We are committed to reassessing the condition of our higher education institutions and supporting all schools to guarantee their revitalization and continuous improvement.”
Regarding healthcare, the Governor pledged N12 billion for the fiscal year 2025 to make healthcare more accessible and affordable. He further emphasized, “We have dedicated a significant N12 billion to health insurance, reinforcing our commitment to improving healthcare access.”
Fintiri also highlighted the importance of agriculture for job creation, food security, and tax revenue. He added that the 2025 budget proposes N12 billion for the agricultural sector to strengthen farm mechanization and ensure the safety of farmlands.
In closing, the Governor commended the Speaker and members of the state assembly for their support and collaboration, stating, “Thank you all for your continued efforts.”
Fintiri concluded, “This budget is more than just a financial plan; it is a vision for a better Adamawa State.”
In his response, the Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Wesley Bathiya, assured the Governor that the House would collaborate with key stakeholders to expedite the passage of the bill.
Bathiya pledged that the Assembly would work closely with the Governor to ensure the people of Adamawa enjoy the benefits of democracy.