Southern Ijaw LG proposes N8.98bn budget for 2024

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Southern Ijaw Local Government Area (LGA) in Bayelsa State, on Friday, proposed an expenditure of N8.98 billion for the 2024 fiscal year.

Hon. Target Segibo, chairman of the LGA presented the budget estimate to the Southern Ijaw Legislative Assembly at Oporoma, the headquarters of the council.

He explained that the budget focuses on critical areas to fast-track the development of the LGA.

Segibo listed the key areas to include infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, sports, workers’ welfare, poverty reduction, security, employment generation and rural development.

The budget, he said is built around his commitment to transparency and accountability of the various income and expenditures.

The chairman in his presentation said the implementation of the budget will fulfil his key campaign promises to the people of the area.

He noted that the implementation will be largely determined by the support of other actors in the council and the people of Southern Ijaw.

“Under this administration, Southern Ijaw Local Government Council will create and break grounds across development sectors.

“This is all due to our commitment to inclusive growth.

“Of particular interest, Mr. Leader and members of the Southern Ijaw Legislative Assembly, are the recent data on healthcare delivery, poverty, and unemployment.

“Also, the welfare of workers and physical development of the LGA as well as Security.

“All these are critical demonstrations that Southern Ijaw Local Government Area will be better within the three (3) years of my very focused administration,” Segibo said.

He said the budget will be funded with incomes from the federal allocations, internally generated revenue, grants and other capital receipts.

The budget allocated N2.73bn, 30.44 per cent of the budget estimate to recurrent expenditures.

Whereas ₦6.056 billion represents 67.40 for capital expenditure.

Receiving the budget estimate on behalf of other members, the Leader of the Southern Ijaw Legislative Assembly, Edward Oweila commended Segibo on his proactive leadership.

He applauded the timely presentation of a people-oriented budget.

He assured the Council Chairman that the House will thoroughly consider the budget estimate to pass it within the expected time.