Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has officially signed the N971 billion 2025 Appropriation Bill into law, committing to its effective implementation to advance the state’s vision of rapid economic transformation and shared prosperity.
The budget, labeled ‘Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity, designates a substantial N837.9 billion to capital projects, amounting to 86% of the total, while N133.1 billion, or 14%, is allocated for recurrent expenses.
Notably, education has retained the highest allocation for the second consecutive year, with N320.6 billion earmarked—over 33% of the total expenditure.
During the signing event, which had in attendance key members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, including Speaker Hon. Uchenna Ugwu and Deputy Speaker Hon. Ezenta Ezeani, Governor Mbah lauded the Assembly for expediting the budget’s passage.
Calling the budget a “massive Christmas gift” for Enugu residents, Mbah reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
“This is democracy in action,” he declared. “Our budget is named the Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity because it reflects our dedication to addressing developmental challenges across all parts of the state. We recognized early on that marginal or incremental growth is not enough. True development requires intentionality. This budget outlines our strategy for exponential growth and ensures no child or individual in Enugu goes to bed hungry.”
Mbah assured the people that the budget, which takes effect on January 1, 2025, would accelerate the state’s progress toward its developmental goals.
Speaker Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, speaking at the event, credited the budget’s seamless passage to the legislature’s active participation in its formulation process.
“We were involved from the start, working behind closed doors to shape these figures. That groundwork eliminated the need for alterations. Ndi Enugu can rest assured that this collaboration will continue to yield positive outcomes,” Ugwu said.
Commending Mbah for his achievements with the 2024 budget, Ugwu promised rigorous legislative oversight to guarantee the 2025 budget’s successful execution.
“Under Governor Mbah’s leadership, progress is evident in every sector—education, health, tourism, road infrastructure, and beyond. His commitment to eradicating poverty in Enugu is clear, with education receiving a third of the budget allocation to empower minds and lay the foundation for sustainable growth,” the Speaker remarked.
Highlighting education as a cornerstone of the administration’s development strategy, Ugwu emphasized its critical role in poverty reduction.
“Without education, there is no progress. By allocating the largest share of the budget to this sector, the governor has shown his determination to fulfill his promises and prepare Enugu for a prosperous future,” Ugwu concluded.
