Kwara state targets completion of capital projects in 2025 with N540 billion budget

The Kwara State Government has allocated N335.5 billion, representing 62.1% of its N540.3 billion budget for 2025, to capital expenditures aimed at completing ongoing projects and initiating new ones. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq presented the budget to the Kwara State House of Assembly last week, emphasizing infrastructure development and increased social protection for the state’s residents.

In his budget presentation, Governor Abdulrazaq outlined key areas of focus, including the completion of major infrastructural projects and the launch of new initiatives such as the construction of 250 housing units and inner roads in the proposed smart city.

The governor highlighted several priority projects, including the development of stadia in Offa and Lafiagi, as well as the construction of new roads across Kwara South, North, and Central to enhance transportation and economic activities. Additionally, the budget includes plans for a state-of-the-art multi-storey courthouse, described as the best of its kind in the northern region, and the completion of upgrades to the Metropolitan Square.

The social sector accounts for 32.5% of the budget, with significant investments in youth and women empowerment programs and anti-poverty initiatives. Education receives 16.2%, while health is allocated 10.56%. Key educational initiatives include establishing the new University of Education and strengthening existing institutions across the state. The Ministry of Works and Transport is allocated 17.51% of the budget to support extensive road construction and maintenance projects.

“This budget reflects our commitment to delivering on promises as resources allow,” Governor Abdulrazaq stated. He highlighted the state’s achievements in 2024, including support for 171,649 farmers, investments in irrigation, and the distribution of farm inputs worth N2.2 billion.

Education initiatives in 2024 benefited over 180,000 students, including funding for 66,000 entrance exam candidates, 58,420 BECE candidates, 28,500 WAEC candidates, and 27,000 NECO candidates. Social protection programs provided support to over 70,000 vulnerable residents, including those affected by the state’s urban renewal program.

Healthcare also made significant strides, with 15,000 indigent Kwarans receiving free medical interventions. The urban renewal program transformed the capital city, modernizing infrastructure, restoring law and order, and elevating Ilorin’s profile as a contemporary urban hub.

Governor Abdulrazaq also noted the state’s financial prudence, with its debt burden reduced from N109.16 billion in December 2023 to N58.87 billion by the third quarter of 2024.

“I thank the Honourable House, party leaders, and all our partners for their unwavering support in advancing Kwara State’s development,” he concluded.