-Zulum Vows not to pass on debts to the next leader
-Outlines 46 goals to accomplish by 2024
In a budget presentation on Wednesday, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State unveiled a N340 billion budget for the fiscal year 2024.
The budget, tagged “Budget of Consolidation and Progress,” prioritizes Health, Education, and Works, allocating N51 billion, N39 billion, and N45 billion, respectively.
The capital expenditure receives a significant portion, with N198.29 billion allocated, while recurrent expenditure is set at N142.33 billion. Governor Zulum emphasized a commitment to clearing all debts before the end of his second term, ensuring a clean slate for the incoming administration.
Sectoral allocations highlight substantial investments, with the Ministry of Finance receiving N53 billion for capital and recurrent expenditures, including debt servicing and salary payments. Other sectors such as Agriculture, Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement, Water Resources, and Information/Internal Security also secured considerable allocations.
In a notable move, Governor Zulum outlined 46 targets for achievement in 2024. These include the establishment of healthcare facilities, construction of educational infrastructure, and initiatives for economic development. Among the targets are the construction of eye and dental hospitals, establishment of schools and colleges, and various infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, the governor pledged to address outstanding issues, such as settling 25% of gratuities owed by states and local governments, training 50% of teachers, and supporting small and medium enterprises with N5 billion. The ambitious targets encompass a wide range of sectors, reflecting Governor Zulum’s comprehensive vision for the state’s development.
The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commended the governor’s achievements and assured a timely passage of the appropriation bill. Governor Zulum’s commitment to leaving a debt-free legacy and the detailed list of targets underscore the state’s dedication to progress and consolidation in the coming fiscal year.