The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday advanced Rivers State’s record ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget to second reading, exercising its legislative authority under the state’s current emergency declaration. Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele presented the massive spending plan, which now moves to a special ad-hoc committee for detailed scrutiny before potential final approval.
The budget’s accelerated consideration comes as the federally-appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), prepares to defend the fiscal document before the National Assembly joint committee next week. Notably, the Senate approved the measure through a unanimous voice vote without opposition, underscoring the urgency to maintain governance continuity in the crisis-hit oil state.
Key Budget Details
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Size | ₦1.48 trillion |
| Legal Basis | State of Emergency Provisions |
| Next Step | Committee Review (Ad-hoc Committee) |
| Defense Schedule | Sole Administrator to appear next week |
Why This Matters
► Ensures continuity of essential services during emergency rule
► Represents first budget under federal administration
► Sets precedent for crisis-state fiscal management
Next Steps
- Joint NASS committee hearings (June 10-14)
- Possible amendments before final passage
- Implementation monitoring framework to be established
