The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok Ete Ibas, on Thursday, defended the sum of N1.846trillion as aggregate projected expenditure for the state in the 2025 fiscal year before the Senate ad-hoc Committee on Oversight of Emergency Rule in Rivers State.

This represents about N400billion of about 15% increase in the amount presented to the National Assembly by President Tinubu which is N1.48 trillion.

Ibas said the increase was as a result of 85% of the budget had been drafted by the previous administration before the emergency rule, with revisions reflecting new priorities in infrastructure and public welfare.

Our correspondent, Raliat Adenekan reports that Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi concurring to the budget increase, described the adjustments as necessary, people-oriented, and aligned with sustaining peace and development under the ongoing emergency administration.

He attributed the increase mainly to urgent capital projects and key welfare obligations, including a notable ₦50 billion allocation for outstanding pensions and gratuities to restore dignity to retired public servants and ensure social stability.

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