Sokoto Assembly passes N526.9bn 2025 budget

Sokoto State House of Assembly has passed the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill of N526.9 billion, following a thorough review and consideration of the budget proposals.

The passage of the bill took place during the Assembly’s plenary session on Tuesday after the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Alhaji Abdullahi Zakari (APC-Rabah), presented the committee’s report.

Zakari said following the governor’s presentation, the committee swiftly commenced budget defense sessions for various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) from December 4th to 15th through its sub-committees.

“This, engagement allowed MDAs to clarify their budgetary needs, after which the subcommittees submitted their reports to the main committee.

“However, some MDAs requested additional funds, and adjustments were made to cater to essential priority needs without altering the total budget size,” he explained.

The lawmaker further explained that the approved 2025 budget comprises a Capital Expenditure N349.4 billion and Recurrent Expenditure N176.3 billion making the total budget size of N526.9 billion.

He said the committee also made key recommendations, including the need for enhanced collaboration between MDAs and the Ministries of Budget and Finance to address discrepancies in budget reporting.

“Furthermore, revenue generation agencies should explore new revenue opportunities and plug leakages, ensuring full compliance with the State Revenue Integration and Consolidation Law 2019,” he added.

The Assembly Leader, Alhaji Bello Idris (APC-Gwadabawa North), moved the motion for the passage of the bill, which Speaker Alhaji Tukur Bala subsequently put to a voice vote and unanimously approved by the lawmakers.

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