By Suleiman Abubakar
In a significant move to advance local development, the Executive Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area, Hon. Mohammed Alhaji Haliru Arabo, has unveiled an ₦8.2 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year. Dubbed the "Budget of Transformation for Fiscal Policy Reality Development," the proposal was presented to the Legislative Council at the Council's Secretariat in GRA Lafia on Tuesday.
Hon. Arabo emphasized his administration's commitment to honesty, prudence, and accountability, outlining that the budget will be financed through internally generated revenue and federal allocations.
The allocation includes over ₦878 million for personnel costs, more than ₦1 billion for overhead expenses, approximately ₦3 billion for social contributions, and over ₦3.2 billion dedicated to capital projects.
The Chairman highlighted four key priority areas: Security, Education, Health, and Social Investment.
He assured that his administration would take all necessary measures to address security challenges, emphasizing that protecting lives and property is paramount.
In response, the Speaker of the Lafia Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Shuaibu Madaki, lauded the Chairman's transparent leadership and pledged a swift review and passage of the budget.
He reiterated the legislative body's role in financial oversight, ensuring that local government funds are managed effectively and transparently.
The budget presentation was attended by prominent figures, including the State APC Chairman, Alh. Aliyu Bello; the Special Adviser to the Governor on State House of Assembly Matters, Hon. Barr. Muhammed Ibrahim Alkali; and representatives from traditional institutions, among others.
This budget proposal reflects Lafia LGA's strategic focus on enhancing infrastructure and social services, aiming to improve the quality of life for its residents in the upcoming year.
