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

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.
Entertainment
Actress Ekene Umenwa Details Pressure to Abandon Faith for Success in Nollywood.

Nollywood actress Ekene Umenwa recently revealed experiencing pressure early in her career to compromise her Christian faith in exchange for professional advancement. In a Wednesday Instagram post, the “Black Choir” star recounted being advised by unnamed individuals to abandon her religious beliefs for success within the industry.
Umenwa affirmed her resolute refusal to yield to these pressures, choosing instead to find strength and guidance in her faith. She shared a video set to the gospel song “No Turning Back,” emphasizing her unwavering commitment to her beliefs despite the challenges.
Umenwa’s disclosure highlights potential ethical dilemmas faced by individuals navigating the complexities of the Nigerian film industry. Her story resonates with themes of integrity and the importance of adhering to personal values amidst external pressures.
Entertainment
Chris Brown Granted Bail in UK Assault Case.

American R&B artist Chris Brown has been released on bail in the UK, pending a future court appearance related to an alleged assault. The Southwark Crown Court granted Mr. Brown bail upon the condition of a £5 million guarantee.
Under the terms stipulated by Judge Tony Baumgartner, Mr. Brown is permitted to continue his scheduled international tour, commencing June 8 in Amsterdam. However, the bail conditions require his return to the UK for a series of concerts beginning June 15, failing which the £5 million will be forfeited. Additionally, he must surrender his passport when not traveling, reside at a court-approved address, and refrain from visiting the location of the alleged incident or contacting the alleged victim, Abraham Diah.
Mr. Brown and a co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, face charges of grievous bodily harm with intent. They are scheduled to appear in court again on June 20.
Entertainment
Jennifer Lopez faces a $300,000 lawsuit over unauthorized use of her own photos.

Jennifer Lopez is once again embroiled in a legal battle over alleged copyright infringement. Photographer Edwin Blanco, and his agency Backgrid, have filed a $300,000 lawsuit against the actress and musician for unauthorized use of two photographs. The photos, reportedly taken at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, were allegedly shared by Lopez on her social media platforms without proper licensing.
The lawsuit claims Lopez utilized the images to promote her brand, specifically tagging associated clothing and jewellery designers. Backgrid is seeking $150,000 in damages per photo. This is not the first instance of such a legal challenge for Lopez, as she previously faced similar lawsuits in 2019 and 2020 for analogous actions involving professionally captured images. The current case underscores the ongoing importance of understanding and respecting copyright law in the digital age, particularly regarding the use of professional photography.
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