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Hosts Rivers’ NASS caucus
From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Rivers State Sole Administrator Vice Admiral (retd) Ibok-Ete Ibas says a 2025 budget is being crafted to tackle key areas like healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. He shared this while hosting the Rivers State National Assembly caucus at Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
Ibas noted the budget will also boost jobs and bring tech upgrades to public life. The delegation, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi of Rivers South-East, included Senator Allwell Onyesoh, House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, and others: Dumnamene Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Godwin Hart, Blessing Amadi, Felix Nwaeke, Kelechi Nwogu, and Victor Obuzor.
Since taking office, Ibas said he’s worked hard to restore law and order. With security agencies’ help, Rivers residents now feel safer and valued. “In addition to our peace-building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State,” he 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 continued infrastructural development,” he added. “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 continued, “The budget which is been finalized 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.”
Ibas stressed the need for lawmakers’ support to secure resources and backing for his plans. “Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations,” he told them.
He explained that after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency, his team used dialogue and community outreach to rebuild trust. “Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people,” he said.
“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard and respected. Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state,” he assured.
Senator Mpigi praised Ibas for his early wins and pledged the caucus’s support to restore law and order. He said they’re committed to driving development for Rivers people from the National Assembly.