By John Umeh
In what many political analysts are calling a bold and calculated move, the Rivers State Government has unveiled its 2025 budget blueprint with a strategic tilt towards governance continuity, economic stability, and political realignment. At the heart of the financial framework lies a strong undertone of loyalty and preparation for the return of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whose tenure has been marked by both reformist zeal and political turbulence.
Addressing stakeholders at the Rivers State Economic Planning Summit, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo Ibas, described the 2025 budget as “not just a fiscal plan, but a political compass.” He asserted that the budget represents a clear roadmap for consolidating Fubara’s legacy and ensuring his unimpeded return to power and public confidence.
A Budget Anchored on Loyalty and Legacy
The proposed 2025 budget, estimated at ₦1.3 trillion, outlines strategic allocations across infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and youth empowerment—key focus areas during Fubara’s earlier governance approach. According to Dr. Ibas, the budget reflects the administration’s desire to “solidify the gains of the past while protecting the political integrity of the present.”
He further stated that, “This budget is a tool for continuity. We have not forgotten who initiated the reforms in Rivers. Fubara’s vision for a stable, economically empowered, and inclusive Rivers State continues to guide our decisions. The 2025 budget carries the imprint of that vision.”
Observers believe the budget is a direct response to the internal political power play that has recently gripped Rivers State, including strained relations between the state government and certain political heavyweights. While not explicitly mentioned, there are strong indications that the budget is designed to realign forces ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle and reassert Fubara’s leadership credentials.
Key Provisions Reflecting Fubara’s Policy Style
A closer look at the document reveals significant funding for projects initiated under Governor Fubara’s administration:
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Infrastructure Renewal: Over ₦450 billion has been allocated to road construction, bridge rehabilitation, and rural electrification, aligning with Fubara’s push for physical development in underserved areas.
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Education and Human Capital: ₦210 billion is earmarked for modernizing public schools, training teachers, and improving learning conditions—a continuation of the Fubara-led education reform program.
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Healthcare Expansion: With ₦170 billion set aside, the government is scaling up investments in primary health centers, maternal care, and the Rivers State Health Insurance Scheme.
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Youth Empowerment and Job Creation: ₦120 billion is allocated for entrepreneurship training, grants for small businesses, and employment programs targeting youths—a demographic that largely backed Fubara during his first term.
“These aren’t just budget lines; they’re declarations of intent,” said Ibas. “We are showing our people that Fubara’s blueprint remains our guide. The budget is not just for 2025—it’s for the future of Rivers State under capable and tested leadership.”
A Political Statement Through Fiscal Policy
The 2025 budget is also being interpreted as a strategic message to the political elite and Rivers electorate. At a time when Fubara’s political influence has been tested, especially amid clashes with the legislature and former allies, the budget appears designed to re-cement his authority by keeping his priorities alive in the state’s development agenda.
Ibas insisted that the administration has no intention of deviating from the path set by Fubara, emphasizing that “the people of Rivers deserve consistency, not confusion.” He dismissed speculations about internal cracks within the government, reiterating that unity remains intact and the focus is firmly on delivering the dividends of democracy.
He concluded with a clear endorsement: “Governor Fubara’s leadership has never been in question. His return, both politically and administratively, is not only expected—it is planned for.”
What This Means for Rivers’ Political Future
Political watchers say the 2025 budget is as much about numbers as it is about narrative. With its clear alignment to Fubara’s development style and political ideology, the financial document serves as a subtle but powerful campaign strategy—an administrative vehicle with electoral undertones.
Whether this roadmap will translate into a smooth political comeback or renewed tension remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: Rivers State is preparing for the return of a leader whose governance philosophy still resonates across local government areas, civil society, and the grassroots.
As Rivers State moves into a critical fiscal year, the 2025 budget stands as both a promise and a pronouncement—a clear sign that the Fubara era is not over but simply on pause.
