Connect with us

Politics

AMBODE SIGNS N1.046TR Y2018 BUDGET INTO LAW

Published

on

…Targets N897bn Revenue

…Assents Consolidated Transport Sector, Teaching Service Commission Bills

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday signed the 2018 Appropriation Bill of the State into law with a total budget size of N1,046,121,181,680.00.

 

The total budget size comprises of N347, 038, 938, 872.00 to be funded from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, and N699, 082, 242,808.00 from the Development Fund for both capital and recurrent expenditure for the year ending 31st December, 2018.

 

The Governor also signed two critical bills into law. They are the Consolidated Transport Sector Bill and the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission Bill.

 

The Transport Sector Law 2018 provides for the development and management of a sustainable transport system in the State, as well as development, management and maintenance of transport infrastructure and facilities within the State.

 

The law also regulates the provision of an efficient transport delivery system and ensures availability of a safe and affordable transportation system. It is hoped that with this law, an efficient integrated transport management system will evolve in the State.

 

On the other hand, the Teaching Service Commission Law 2018 provides for the control and management of teaching service matters in the State, and for connected purposes.

 

The law regulates and co-ordinates the management of teaching service matters and provides uniform guidelines for the effective management of Post-Primary Schools in the State.

 

Governor Ambode, while presenting the 2018 Appropriation Bill to the State House of Assembly, had pledged that his administration would make every effort to complete all ongoing projects as well as initiate new ones to consolidate on the development recorded in the last two and half years.

 

He said the budget, christened as “Budget of Progress and Development”, would be used to consolidate on the achievements recorded in infrastructure, education, transportation/traffic management, security and health sectors, among others.

 

Outlining the key components of the budget, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Olusegun Banjo said capital expenditure would gulp N699.082billion, while N347.039billion would be dedicated to recurrent expenditure, representing a Capital/Recurrent ratio of 67 per cent to 33 per cent and a 28.67 per cent increase over Y2017 budget.

 

He also listed key projects captured in the 2018 Budget to include the Agege Pen Cinema flyover; alternative routes through Oke-Ira in Eti-Osa to Epe-Lekki Expressway; the 8km Regional Road to serve as alternative route to connect Victoria Garden City (VGC) with Freedom Road in Lekki Phase I; completion of the on-going reconstruction of Oshodi International Airport Road into a 10-lane road and the BRT Lane from Oshodi to Abule-Egba.

 

According to sectoral breakdown of the budget, General Public Services is earmarked to gulp N171,623bn, representing 16.41 per cent; Public Order and Safety, N46.612bn, representing 4.46; Economic Affairs, N473,866bn, representing 45.30 per cent; Environmental Protection, N54,582bn, representing 5.22 per cent, while Housing and Community Amenities got N59,904bn, representing 5.73 per cent.

 

Health sector got N92.676billion, representing 8.86 per cent; Recreation, Culture and Religion got N12.511billion, representing 1.20 per cent; Education got N126.302billion representing 12.07 per cent, while Social Protection got N8.042billion representing 0.77 per cent.

 

Under the budget, there are provisions for completion of the five new Art Theatres; establishment of an Heritage Centre at the former Federal Presidential State House recently handed over to the State Government; a world class museum between the former Presidential Lodge and the State House, Marina; construction of four new stadia in Igbogbo, Epe, Badagry and Ajeromi Ifelodun (Ajegunle) and completion of the on-going Epe and Badagry Marina projects.

 

On Housing, there are provisions for completion of on-going projects especially those at Gbagada, Igbogbo, Iponri, Igando, Omole Phase I, Sangotedo and Ajara-Badagry under the Rent-to-Own policy, among others.

 

Also speaking, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinyemi Ashade put the projection for revenue (IGR) at N897billion, while the remaining part of the budget would be funded by deficit financing.

 

”Today is a good day in our State, the Governor just signed the 2018 Appropriation Law. For the first time the Law has about N1.046trillion as total amount that we would spend in 2018.

 

“The Budget is tagged “Budget of Progress and Development” and in terms of capital and recurrent expenditure, we have 63 per cent Capital and 37 per cent Recurrent and that shows that we are really big on infrastructural renewal.

 

“In terms of revenue, we are expecting a total of N897billion both from the State and Federal receipts, so the rest would be funded through budget deficit financing. We are focusing this year on completing all projects that we have started knowing fully well that people would say that this is an election year, but the Governor is focused on delivering the dividends of democracy; we are not slowing down, we want to really ensure that we touch every aspect of Lagos that needs to be touched in terms of infrastructural renewal, welfare and other things that the Governor promised,” Ashade said.  

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

religion

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

Published

on

Prophet Kingsley Aitafo's Prophecy Fulfilled: Alhaji Muyideen Bello Passes Away

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:

 

 

1. A Year of Divine Justice

2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.

 

2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against

The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.

 

3. A Major Technological Advancement

WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.

 

4. Nigeria’s National Football Team

The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.

 

5. A Great Man of God in Danger

One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.

 

6. Sunday Igboho

The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.

 

7. Nnamdi Kanu

Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.

 

8. Fire Disasters Worldwide

Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.

 

9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.

 

10. Global Police Forces

The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.

 

11. African Nations and Coups

Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.

 

12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.

 

13. Changes in EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.

 

14. Passing of Aged Leaders

Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.

 

15. New Religious Leaders

New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.

 

16. Churches in Danger of Scandals

Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.

 

17. Exposure of False Churches

Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.

 

18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers

Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.

 

19. Plane Crashes

A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.

 

20. National Unity in Nigeria

Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.

 

21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat

Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.

 

22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict

A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.

 

23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches

The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.

 

24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria

Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.

 

25. Christ’s Return is Near

Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.

 

Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.

 

Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.

Continue Reading

Politics

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Published

on

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

The global coordinator of the Obidient Movement has announced that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement, has stepped forward to fulfill the bail conditions for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi, a prominent activist known for his bold stance against systemic issues in Nigeria, was recently granted ₦30 million bail by a Federal High Court following charges filed against him. The case has attracted significant public attention, with widespread support for Farotimi from various quarters.

In a statement, the Coordinator revealed that Obi expressed his gratitude to the judiciary and all stakeholders involved in the legal process. The former presidential candidate emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in resolving the matter.

The Obidient Movement, known for championing justice and accountability, has remained vocal in its support for Farotimi. The group reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and transparency in Nigeria’s judicial system.

The next hearing in Farotimi’s case is scheduled for January 2025, with supporters hopeful for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the legal process.

Continue Reading

Politics

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Published

on

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.

Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.

Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.

Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.

“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.

“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.

Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.

“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.

“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.

“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.

“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending