In a significant move to align the state’s fiscal planning with expected revenue, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly has approved a revised 2025 budget of N384.3 billion. This revision comes after the Assembly initially passed a budget of N402.5 billion, which was later deemed unsustainable due to anticipated shortfalls in state revenue.

The Speaker of the House, Danladi Jatau, confirmed the passage of the revised budget during an emergency sitting in Lafia on Friday. He explained that the budget revision followed recommendations from the Executive, citing concerns over the state’s ability to generate sufficient revenue to cover the previously approved budget. This adjustment aligns the budget with the expected revenue inflow, ensuring that the state can achieve at least 85% budget performance to qualify for transparency grants.

The revised budget comprises N160.7 billion for recurrent expenditure and N223.7 billion for capital expenditure. Speaker Jatau acknowledged the broader impact of national tax reforms, particularly those initiated by the Federal Government, which are expected to affect the revenue inflow to several Northern States, including Nasarawa.

In addition, international intervention programs were noted as another factor influencing the budget revision. These revisions are expected to ensure that the state’s financial plans remain feasible and adaptable to changing economic circumstances.

The House unanimously approved the bill, with contributions from key members including Hajarat Ibrahim, Solomon Yakubu Akwashiki, and Mohammed Isimbabi, who emphasized the importance of the revised budget for the socio-economic development of Nasarawa State. The Majority Leader, Suleiman Azara, and Minority Leader, Luka Zhekaba, also supported the motion, underscoring the urgent need for the bill’s passage.

Governor Abdullahi Sule had initially presented the 2025 budget with a proposed allocation of N382.5 billion, which was later increased to N402.5 billion before being revised. The revised figure of N384.3 billion is now awaiting Governor Sule’s assent to become law. The Speaker commended the members for their commitment to the state’s priorities, even suspending their holidays to address pressing state matters.

The budget revision reflects a careful balancing act between ensuring fiscal responsibility and promoting sustainable economic growth for Nasarawa State in 2025.