by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law, marking a significant step towards the comprehensive development of the state across all sectors.
The governor signed the budget, tagged “Budget of New Beginnings,” on Tuesday at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
The budget, totaling ₦314,865,158,553, comprises ₦162,325,733,561 for recurrent expenditure and ₦152,529,514,992 for capital expenditure.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized his administration’s dedication to inclusive leadership, geared towards fostering development throughout the state.
“As Governor of Plateau State, this appropriation bill encapsulates our vision to transform Plateau into a citadel of glory. Termed, the ‘Budget of New Beginnings,’ we believe Plateau deserves better than what was previously in place.
“We encountered a state of neglect in critical sectors, and we are determined to lay a new foundation for a sustainable, excellent, and value-adding future,” he stated.
The governor expressed optimism that the budget’s implementation would improve the living conditions of the people, and urged citizens to support the government for continued progress.
Mutfwang was optimistic that, “We are committed to pursuing development to elevate Plateau among the states in Nigeria. Next year, as we commence the budget implementation, Plateau will rise to greatness.”
Providing insights into the budget, Hon. Chrysanthus Dawam, who is Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, stated that an estimated ₦295,495,568,464 was initially proposed to the Plateau State House of Assembly.
He noted that the House, under the authority of Section 120 of the Constitution, passed the 2024 Appropriation Bill, resulting in a total budget size of ₦314,865,158,553, with ₦162,325,733,561 allocated for recurrent expenditure and ₦152,529,514,992 for capital expenditure – an increase of ₦19,420,089 (6.73%) from the initial proposal.
Hon. Dawam highlighted that the 2024 budget surpasses the approved 2023 budget by ₦164,903,813,962. The budget, he said, will be funded through various sources, including IGR (₦38,360,874,931), SRA (₦151,424,566,079), and Capital Receipts (₦60,259,112,543).