Niger Governor Bago Presents ₦1.5 Trillion Budget Proposal to the State Assembly
From: Yahaya Zakka, Minna
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has presented a budget proposal of over ₦1.5 trillion for the year 2025 to the State Assembly. This budget, titled “Budget of Hope for Sustainability and Food Security,” was unveiled at the State Assembly complex in Minna.
The proposed budget represents an increase of 48.3% over the 2024 appropriation. It includes a projected recurrent expenditure of over ₦200 billion, while capital expenditure accounts for more than ₦1.3 trillion, which is 87% of the total budget.
The 2025 budget is based on the Economic and Fiscal Update (EFU), Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), and Budget Statement (BPS) for 2025-2027, all of which have been approved by the State Assembly. Revenue for the budget will be derived from statutory allocations, value-added tax, FAAC receipts, internally generated revenue (IGR), other IGR sources, and capital receipts.
In terms of sectoral allocations, the Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Renewal sector received the highest funding, exceeding ₦200 billion, while the Law and Justice sector received the lowest allocation, estimated at over ₦3.5 billion.
During his presentation, Governor Bago emphasized that the 2025 budget aims to fortify agriculture as a cornerstone of the state’s economy and to enhance the infrastructure laid by his administration for rapid socio-economic development.
He highlighted his administration’s commitment to sustainability, which aligns with the Niger State Green Initiative and agricultural advancement. The budget preparation followed a participatory, people-centered approach.
“The emphasis on sustainability reflects our collective commitment to the Niger State Green Initiative and our agricultural drive,” he stated. “This approach promotes long-term environmental health and resilient food systems capable of creating sustainable prosperity.
The budget will focus on key economic sectors: security of lives and properties, agriculture and food security, health, education, water and sanitation, infrastructure development, social security, and environmental sustainability.”
He called for support, cooperation, and understanding from all citizens in the quest for a New Niger. Governor Bago noted that the approved 2024 budget had achieved a remarkable 68.88% performance rate and expressed confidence that the 2025 budget would receive the necessary backing to reach its objectives.
“Together, we can build the New Niger we desire, offering equal opportunities for all,” he said. “I am grateful to everyone for their steadfast support of our initiatives. I also wish to thank all Nigerlites for their unwavering support and understanding.”
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, commended Governor Bago for his judicious and strategic management of the state’s resources, which has significantly improved the lives of the citizens. He noted that the cooperative relationship between the Executive and Legislative arms of government has facilitated efficient decision-making, alignment on developmental priorities, and a shared commitment to the welfare of the people.
He assured that the Assembly is ready to forge a dynamic partnership in pursuit of a prosperous and sustainable legacy.
The Speaker reaffirmed the 11th Assembly’s commitment to supporting the Bago-led administration, expressing confidence that the upcoming fiscal year would bring transformative developments and position Niger State as a model of progress, stability, and prosperity.
This is the second full budget presented by the Bago-led administration, with his wife, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Bago, Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba, members of the State Executive Council, top government officials, members of the judiciary, and traditional and religious leaders in attendance, including the Emir of Borgu.
