By Abdulkareem Haruna

 Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, has shed light on the decision to increase the 2025 budget by ₦31 billion, highlighting the need to address significant gaps in critical sectors.

The original budget proposal, presented by Governor Babagana Zulum on December 9, 2024, was set at ₦584 billion. Following legislative review, the budget was adjusted to N615 billion to meet pressing needs across the state.

“The increase followed a thorough review by the Assembly’s Appropriation Committee in collaboration with other standing committees,” Speaker Lawan told The Humanitarian Times Lawan in an interview on Tuesday. 

“It became necessary to allocate additional funds to critical areas that were overlooked in the initial budget proposal.”

He said among the sectors benefiting from the increased allocation, the Ministry of Health received an additional ₦7 billion aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery. This funding will facilitate the completion and equipping of the new Borno State Teaching Hospital and operationalize newly constructed health centers across local government areas. 

“Healthcare is a top priority for the government,” Lawan emphasized. “The additional funds will ensure the teaching hospital is fully equipped and operational while enhancing services at new health centers established in 2024.”

The legislators also allocated an additional ₦5 billion to the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Youth Development, a move Lawan described as essential for combating the pervasive poverty exacerbated by years of insecurity. 

“Borno State has faced severe poverty challenges due to insecurity,” he noted. “The increased allocation will support programs aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods and empowering citizens, especially youth.”

Security remains a vital concern, and the Security Trust Fund received an additional ₦5 billion to bolster operations aimed at restoring peace in the region. Lawan explained, 

“The Security Trust Fund supports logistics for the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and other security agencies. The funds will boost efforts to ensure peace and stability by providing vehicles, fuel, and other operational needs.”

Lawan praised Governor Zulum for his commitment to education, pointing to the establishment of over 30 megaschools across the state. “Thousands of children now have access to quality education,” he affirmed, mentioning the creation of specialized institutions for children affected by conflict.

Additionally, he revealed that over 200 students from Borno have been sponsored for advanced studies abroad in fields such as engineering and public administration. 

“These initiatives reflect the governor’s commitment to securing a brighter future for the state through education and human capital development,” Lawan asserted.

As Borno continues to navigate the challenges posed by insecurity and poverty, Lawan assured citizens of the Assembly’s commitment to support development initiatives and urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively for the state’s progress. 

“Together, we can build a stronger Borno,” he concluded.