By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The Executive Chairman of Yagba West, Hon. Tosin Olokun, has presented the Yagba West Local Government 2025 Appropriation Bill of ₦6,431,992,470 to the Local Government Legislative Council at the council chamber in Odo-Ere for deliberation and passage.
Tagged the “Budget of Sustainable Rural Advancement,” the budget allocates ₦3,763,988,440 for recurrent expenditure and ₦2,668,004,030 for capital expenditure.
The executive chairman emphasized that the budget prioritizes key sectors essential to the development agenda of the local government. These key areas include infrastructural development, education and youth empowerment, agriculture and rural economy, health and social welfare, and environmental sustainability.
He stated that infrastructure remains a top priority for this year’s budget, acknowledging that sustainable development hinges on functional and efficient infrastructure. “To this end, we have earmarked significant resources for the rehabilitation and construction of roads, the electrification of rural communities, and the enhancement of water supply systems. Our goal is to ensure that no community is left behind in the journey toward modernization and development.”
“As a predominantly agrarian local government, agriculture continues to be the backbone of our economy. In 2025, we plan to introduce innovative agricultural practices, provide more subsidies to our farmers, and expand access to modern farming equipment.”
“Education and youth empowerment are also key pillars of this year’s budget. We recognize that the future of Yagba West lies in the hands of our young people. Therefore, we will invest in technical and vocational education to equip our youth with employable skills.”
“Additionally, we will expand the scope of our youth empowerment programs to include digital skills training, ensuring that our young people are prepared to thrive in the 21st-century economy.”
“In the area of health, we will prioritize the renovation and equipping of primary healthcare centers to improve maternal and child healthcare services. We will also launch a community health outreach program to provide free medical services to underserved areas, addressing critical health challenges at the grassroots level.”
“Environmental sustainability is another critical focus area for 2025. We are committed to promoting cleanliness and strengthening waste management systems to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for all.”
“Above all, the Budget of Sustainable Rural Advancement is not just a financial document; it is a testament to our commitment to building a brighter and more prosperous future for our people. Together, we can transform Yagba West into a model of sustainable development, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”
The chairman further expressed his commitment to ensuring “transformative growth, equitable development, and the empowerment of the rural populace.”
He noted that the budget is a financial plan rooted in the shared vision for a better tomorrow and aligns with the guiding philosophy of Kogi State’s 2025 fiscal plan—the “Budget of All-Inclusive Development,” as envisioned by the forward-thinking Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.
He explained, “The Budget of All-Inclusive Development is an embodiment of a governance model that prioritizes equity, inclusivity, and grassroots empowerment, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their geographic location or socio-economic status, benefits from the dividends of democracy.”
“As a local government, we draw inspiration from this vision, recognizing that our role is to bring development closer to the people and to translate lofty state policies into tangible realities for our rural communities and local government at large.”
The executive chairman expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his visionary leadership and support for the development of Yagba West. He also thanked the members of the legislative arm for their cooperation and guidance, as well as the people of Yagba West for their trust and partnership.
“Let us work together to ensure the successful implementation of this budget, creating a local government that reflects our shared aspirations and values. May God bless Yagba West Local Government, Kogi State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he urged.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
