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Governor Alex Otti Proposes ₦750 Billion Budget for 2025 Fiscal Year.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has submitted a proposed budget of ₦750 billion for the 2025 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly for review and approval. This budget reflects a notable increase of approximately 30% from the previous year’s budget of ₦523 billion.

In his presentation, titled “Budget of Sustained Momentum,” Otti allocated ₦611.7 billion, or 82% of the total budget, for capital expenditures, while ₦138.6 billion, representing 18%, is earmarked for recurrent expenditures. The governor acknowledged the significant economic challenges facing the state, including inflation and fluctuating exchange rates, which have impacted fiscal strategies.

Otti highlighted several key initiatives within the proposed budget. Notably, ₦13 billion is designated for the establishment of agro-industrial processing zones in the local government areas of Bende, Ukwa, and Umunneochi. Additionally, ₦55 billion is allocated for ongoing and new road projects, with plans to construct 170 kilometers of rural roads across all 17 local government areas. Furthermore, ₦4 billion is set aside for the refurbishment and reticulation of a 47-kilometer pipeline for the Umuahia Regional Water Scheme.

The health and education sectors are prioritized, with a combined total of 35% of the budget allocated—15% for health and 20% for education. Otti emphasized that the budget was developed with significant input from the citizens of Abia State, who participated in various engagement sessions.

In terms of revenue projections, the governor anticipates a 213% increase in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), alongside substantial rises in statutory allocations, grants, and Value Added Tax (VAT). To finance the remaining ₦364.1 billion, which constitutes about 51% of the budget, the administration plans to utilize borrowing from domestic and multilateral channels, ensuring that all borrowing is strictly for project execution.

Governor Otti reassured the assembly that no funds had been borrowed to date and that his administration remains committed to fiscal discipline. He reiterated that borrowing would only occur when necessary and exclusively for projects that would generate returns.

In response, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, commended the governor’s budget proposal, affirming the House’s support in achieving the outlined goals for the 2025 fiscal year. The proposed budget signifies a strategic approach to addressing the developmental needs of Abia State while ensuring financial prudence.

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Lagos State Reaffirms Focus on Road Safety, Not Revenue, with Speed Enforcement.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to road safety, emphasizing that the recently implemented speed limit enforcement and e-policing camera system is primarily designed to reduce accidents and fatalities, not to generate revenue.

Speaking on a local radio program, Mr. Musa clarified that the initiative aims to curb excessive speeding, a key contributor to road accidents. He stated that compliance with speed limits is crucial for saving lives and preventing injuries, and that the enforcement measures, though often met with resistance, are necessary for public safety.

Further, Mr. Musa addressed concerns regarding potential errors and assured the public that a transparent process exists for contesting perceived wrongful fines. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to equitable enforcement, noting that even government vehicles have been subject to fines for violations. He urged motorists to adhere to posted speed limits, especially along the Alapere axis and the Third Mainland Bridge, and to utilize designated locations for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The government is also addressing issues of missing or vandalized road signs through alternative measures like direct road markings.

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Entertainment

Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse and memorable roles, who passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news.

Kilmer, a prominent figure in 1990s cinema, achieved widespread recognition for his performances in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” where he embodied Jim Morrison, and “Tombstone,” where he portrayed Doc Holliday. He also donned the cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever.” His extensive filmography includes significant roles in “Heat,” “The Saint,” “Willow,” and the recent “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Kilmer’s career was marked by periods of controversy and fluctuating box office success. He was reportedly diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, though he later recovered.

Val Kilmer’s talent and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly be remembered by audiences for years to come.

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Foreign

Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.

The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.

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