December 24, (THEWILL) – The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has signed the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill into law following its passage by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
Diri had initially presented a budget estimate of ₦689.44 billion to the Assembly on October 31, 2024.
However, the Assembly increased the figure by ₦10.13 billion, bringing the total to ₦699.57 billion before its passage.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Government House in Yenagoa on Monday, Diri emphasised that the timely approval and enactment of the budget aligned with his administration’s commitment to operating a January-to-December fiscal calendar.
He described the budget as a critical instrument for promoting transparency and good governance in the state.
“Today, in line with our policy, we have completed all necessary processes to enact the 2025 appropriation bill, tagged ‘Budget of Assured Prosperity,’ into law. This budget reflects our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for Bayelsans by prioritizing sectors that deliver real impact,” Diri said.
The governor urged ministries, departments, and agencies to align their operations with the provisions of the budget, reiterating its status as a legal framework that must be implemented to benefit the people.
He also commended the Speaker and members of the State Assembly for their swift and diligent passage of the bill, describing their performance as exemplary.
“Mr. Speaker, your leadership continues to stand out. The House has shown remarkable dedication and productivity, which is evident in the timely passage of this budget. I encourage you to maintain this level of service to our state,” the governor added.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, noted that the legislative arm had meticulously reviewed the budget estimates before its passage.
He explained that the 1.5% increase to the original proposal was carefully considered to address the developmental needs of the state.
“This budget, if properly implemented, has the potential to transform the economic fortunes of Bayelsa State. We are committed to ensuring its success,” Ingobere said.
He thanked Diri for his administration’s support, particularly in providing resources for the training and retraining of institutions, which he said had enhanced productivity across the state.
The Speaker also pledged a more robust working relationship between the executive and legislative arms in 2025 to ensure the continued progress of Bayelsa State.
The 2025 budget is expected to focus on key sectors to improve the living standards of residents and drive economic development.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
