In a significant move for Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa officially signed the state’s 2024 budget into law, amounting to an impressive N395 billion. This development unfolded mere hours after the State House of Assembly gave its stamp of approval to the appropriation bill. The budget itself reflects a strategic allocation, with a noteworthy 56.23% directed towards capital expenditure, underscoring the administration’s commitment to driving tangible development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, during the signing ceremony, delivered an address shedding light on the key aspects of the budget. Aptly titled the ‘Budget of Economic Resilience,’ it is slated to serve as a catalyst for the overall growth and development of the state in the upcoming fiscal year of 2024. The governor’s emphasis on economic resilience suggests a proactive approach to navigating potential challenges and fostering sustainable economic progress.
He recalled the momentous occasion when, on December 21, 2023, he presented the initial budget estimates of N384 billion, reinforcing the budget’s thematic focus. Acknowledging the collaborative efforts with the State House of Assembly, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the legislative body for its dedicated scrutiny and prompt passage of the appropriation bill. The governor specifically commended Mr. Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, the Chairman, the Members of the House Committee on Appropriation, and all Honourable Members for their collective commitment to the people’s cause.
Aiyedatiwa took a moment to highlight the positive legacy of a cordial relationship between the Executive Arm of Government and the Legislature, emphasizing that such collaboration had facilitated the delivery of promises to the people. This, he stated, is a legacy that must be upheld and sustained for the benefit of the state.
The governor articulated his administration’s commitment to implementing the 2024 budget with probity and transparency, announcing that the budget details would be accessible on the Ondo State portal, www.ondobudget.org, for public monitoring. Unveiling the thematic focus of the budget, Aiyedatiwa underscored its concentration on human capital development, climate change, a clean and sustainable environment, rural development, and food security.
Furthermore, he assured the continued commitment to meeting salary, pension, and gratuity obligations for both serving and retired officers. Notably, the governor pledged to prioritize the completion of ongoing legacy infrastructural projects initiated by the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, and CON.
Meanwhile, the budget underwent an increment of N10.7 billion during its journey through the legislative process. The Ondo State House of Assembly, in passing the budget, adopted the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, presented by its Chairman. Speaker Olamide Oladiji expressed optimism that the signed budget would serve as a transformative force, propelling the state towards development and growth. He lauded the committee for its efficiency and timeliness, extending appreciation to the state Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget.
Conclusion: Ayedatiwa
The signing of the 2024 budget marks a pivotal moment for Ondo State, setting the stage for comprehensive development and economic resilience under the strategic vision of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Source: guardian.ng
