Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Governor Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru has submitted a proposed appropriation of N202.1 billion for the year 2024 to the state house of assembly, unveiling the “Budget of Innovation and Progress.”
The allocation includes N132.8 million for Capital Expenditure and N69.32 million for Recurrent Expenditure, with a focus on key sectors such as health, education, works, and human capital development.
The governor highlighted ongoing efforts to rehabilitate 14 general hospitals, combatting medical quackery with 107 practitioners signing an undertaking to cease such practices. He also emphasized the closure of five fake hospitals and the arrest of three fraudulent drug distributors.
“Through the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency, we are not just reducing the financial burden of healthcare on civil servants; we are offering a lifeline to families striving for a healthy future.
“By covering the health insurance premiums of identified vulnerable citizens, we extend compassionate hand to those who need it most. These initiatives are not abstract; they are stories of lives changed, futures secured, and communities thriving,“he emphasised.
According to the Governor, “The essence of our commitment to education goes beyond bricks and mortar; it lies in the dreams of every child who now has access to quality learning environments. Picture a student in a rural community, now equipped with the tools and facilities necessary to unlock their full potential.”
Governor Nwifuru explained that the ongoing move to construct 39 duplexes, 3 duplexes in each Local Government Area with 12 classrooms, is not just a mere political achievement, but an investment that would shape the future leaders of Ebonyi State.
In the area of infrastructure, the Governor disclosed that his administration has awarded the construction of 22km, Ezillo Ezzaegu road ; 31 km offerekpe -Agbaja Internal Road, 23km Ogbaga -Nwofe Road ; 12. 8 km Ugwulangwu Road; 12.3km Okposi ojigwe -Mgbom Road among others , while concerted efforts had been made to improve health care delivery
“Consider the 189 Health Workers strategically employed for our General Hospitals 36 of whom are doctors. They are not just professionals filling positions; they are the compassionate hands that heal, the reassuring voices that comfort, and the pillars of our healthcare system.
“Reflect on the empowerment of 500 Ebonyi indigenes through EBSMEDA grants. These are not just financial disbursements; they are investments in dreams, businesses, and the economic resilience of our people, “ the Governor said.
Providing a budget breakdown, Gov. Nwifuru allocated 49.67% of the capital expenditure to the administration sector, 26.49% to the economic sector, 2.99% to law and justice, 0.05% to the regional sector, and 28.78% to social services. Notably, ministries like agriculture received 4.08%, while works and transport were allocated 10.75%.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Assembly, Moses Odunwa representing Iwo South constituency, commended the governor for his dedication to the State development within few months in office.
Meanwhile, the budget passed first reading after which the House adjourned the plenary.