In a decisive move towards fiscal planning and economic advancement, Governor Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has formally endorsed the 2024 Appropriation Bill, totaling N208,064,000,000.00, as approved by the Gombe State House of Assembly.
The signing ceremony took place yesterday at a concise and dignified event held within the Council Chamber of the Government House, Gombe.
The House of Assembly made a commendable adjustment to the proposed budget, increasing it by N300 million from the initial submission by Governor Inuwa Yahaya, which stood at N207,750,200,000.00. Breaking down the budget, it delineates a judicious allocation, with 58% earmarked for capital expenditure and 42% for recurrent, signifying a noteworthy upswing in capital expenditure for the state's budget.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, in his address during the ceremony, expressed appreciation for the expeditious passage of the appropriation bill, acknowledging the sustained collaboration between the executive and legislative branches. He specifically commended the House Committee on Appropriations for their tireless efforts, highlighting the speed at which the bill was approved, reinforcing the harmonious relationship between the two arms of government.
"Since our assumption of office during our first tenure in 2019, the House of Assembly has consistently demonstrated cooperation. The lawmakers have diligently attended to our requests for the passage of annual or supplementary budgets and other approvals crucial to our administration. We are grateful for the unwavering support of the House to our leadership," Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed.
Emphasizing his commitment to continued collaboration with the lawmakers, the governor underscored the collective goal of providing effective leadership for the welfare of citizens and promoting economic development and prosperity in the state.
The 2024 budget, aptly tagged 'Budget of Continuity and Consolidation,' is positioned to build upon the successes of previous budgets. The Appropriation Act allocates resources for increased infrastructure, enhanced healthcare services, improved education, human capital development, and job creation, among other strategic priorities.
Rt. Hon. Mohammed Abubakar Luggerewo, the Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya for the 2023 budget's performance. He assured continued legislative support, expressing optimism that the 2024 budget would surpass its predecessor in terms of performance.
Present at the Council Chamber to witness the signing were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, lawmakers, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Head of Service, Alhaji Ahmed Kasimu Abdullahi, Commissioners, and other distinguished government officials.
This comprehensive budget, meticulously crafted and endorsed, lays the groundwork for Gombe State's sustained growth and progress.
