THE Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has proposed N207.7 billion as the 2024 Appropriation Bill.
This newspaper reports that the fiscal document is tagged “Budget of Continuity and Consolidation.”
The document has N87.2bn as recurrent expenditure, representing 42 per cent and N120.5bn as capital expenditure, representing 58 per cent.
Presenting the document at the state House of Assembly on Monday, Yahaya said the budget was geared towards consolidating on the gains of his first term in office, urging the House to scrutinise it in a bid to provide the needed insight.
He said, “The Speaker, members, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is with sincere gratitude to Almighty Allah that I present to the House the 2024 budget proposal of N207.7bn tagged ‘Budget of Continuity and Consolidation,’ in line with our desire to build on our first term achievements and consolidate on past gains.
“I call on the state House of Assembly to scrutinise this budget and provide constructive insights that will enrich the document and enhance its impacts on the lives and livelihoods of our people.
“On a final note, I would like to thank the House, the State Executive Council, the judiciary, and the general public for their continuous support and cooperation. I call on all stakeholders to join hands with us towards the realisation of our common objectives and collective aspirations. Together, we shall build a Gombe State that is all-inclusive, prosperous, resilient and forward-looking.”
While giving a breakdown of the budget, Yahaya disclosed that his administration would continue to provide for the developmental needs of the people of the state in the 2024 fiscal year, adding that, “This is made up of N87,250,200,000.00 for recurrent expenditure representing 42 per cent, and N120,500,000,000.00 for capital expenditure, representing 58 per cent of the total budgeted sum.”
On his part, the Speaker, Abubakar Luggerewo, assured the governor that the budget would be given accelerated attention.
Luggerewo said, “A year ago when you presented 2023 budget, we assured you that we will give the bill all the needed accelerated legislative scrutiny. We will ensure we pass the budget within the expected timeframe.
“I have no doubt that we will deliver the budget in good time to the development of our people. We are highly satisfied with your management of 2023 budget. From records, you recorded about 58 per cent at the end of September.”
Luggerewo lauded the governor for the construction of roads, schools and health centres, adding that the support provided by the executive had improved the relationship.
“We are happy about your ability to achieve a lot with lean resources, you have made Gombe a focal point among other states,” he added.