Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, has unveiled a ₦526.88 billion budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year, emphasizing long-term development and infrastructure. Dubbed the “Transformational and Infrastructural Budget,” the proposal prioritizes capital projects and critical sectors like education, health, and agriculture.
The budget allocates ₦176.3 billion (33.44%) for recurrent expenditure and ₦349.4 billion (66.26%) for capital projects, underlining the administration’s focus on infrastructural development. The education sector receives the highest allocation, comprising approximately 25% of the total budget.
Presenting the budget to the state House of Assembly on Friday, Governor Aliyu highlighted that 44% of the recurrent expenditure would cover essential costs such as the newly approved minimum wage of ₦70,000 for state workers, pension payments, and other government overheads. He assured that the new wage structure would take effect in January 2025, a step he described as pivotal for civil servants’ welfare.
“I am delighted to announce that we will implement the new minimum wage of ₦70,000 from January 2025,” Aliyu said, expressing gratitude for the support of the state’s workforce.
He also emphasized fiscal responsibility, noting that the administration had not borrowed funds from financial institutions for any projects. “To date, we are not owing any contractor in the state,” he added, underscoring the government’s commitment to financial transparency.
Reflecting on the challenges and achievements of the 2024 budget, Aliyu acknowledged ongoing security issues in some local government areas but reassured citizens of his administration’s dedication to tackling these concerns.
The governor called for strengthened collaboration among security forces, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to address security challenges hindering development.
With this budget, Governor Aliyu aims to steer Sokoto State towards economic growth and improved living standards through strategic investments and a focus on sustainable development.
