Ogun State House of Assembly Commences 2025 Budget Defence.

The Ogun State House of Assembly has initiated the budget defence process for the 2025 fiscal year, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation, transparency, and accountability in the allocation and utilization of public funds. This initiative aims to ensure that government resources create tangible value for the citizens of Ogun State.

In his opening remarks at the assembly complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Musefiu Lamidi, the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, underscored the significance of this exercise in the governance process. He articulated that the focus extends beyond mere numerical figures, highlighting the necessity to assess the impact of proposed programs and projects on the populace.

Lamidi stated, “We are here to ensure that the resources allocated translate into meaningful, measurable, and sustainable benefits for our citizens.” He encouraged representatives from various ministries to provide clear, detailed insights into their proposed budgets, while also reflecting on the progress made in the previous year and outlining their plans for the upcoming year.

The chairman reaffirmed the Ogun State Assembly’s commitment to supporting initiatives that align with the collective goal of enhancing the quality of life for all residents. He assured that the budget defence exercise would be conducted with fairness, professionalism, and adherence to the principles of good governance.

The process commenced with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, which plays a pivotal role in advancing the welfare and empowerment of vulnerable populations. Lamidi emphasized the ministry’s critical function in fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that no citizen is left behind in Ogun State’s shared vision.

During the budget defence, Commissioner Adijat Adeleye presented the ministry’s financial allocations, revealing that N1.050 billion is earmarked for recurrent expenditure and N468.4 million for capital expenditure, bringing the total projected expenditure to N1.5 billion for the next fiscal year. She assured that the ministry remains committed to investing in all demographics through gender-responsive and participatory approaches aimed at sustainable development.

The ongoing budget defence process reflects the Ogun State House of Assembly’s dedication to ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively to benefit the community, thereby reinforcing the principles of good governance in the state.