Senator Bassey Otu, the governor of Cross River State, has officially signed the 2024 appropriation law into effect after its passage by the House of Assembly. The budget, named the “People First Budget,” has been increased to ₦296,985,631,978.01 from the initial estimate of ₦250,564,235,077.05.
Governor Otu highlighted that the ₦46 billion increase was allocated to address the needs of people with disabilities, emphasising the government’s commitment to inclusivity. He stated, “The increase will facilitate better access to healthcare, assistive technologies, education, and employment opportunities tailored to their capabilities.”
In explaining the adjustments, Otu expressed the importance of erasing social imbalances for this vulnerable demographic, emphasising the moral imperative to provide specialised care and resources. The additional funds will also support gratuity payments, debt services, counterpart funds, nutrition activities, social protection, climate change, and gender-responsive budgeting.
The governor commended the Cross River State House of Assembly for their due diligence and early passage of the bill, attributing the success to the cooperative relationship between the executive and legislative branches. He highlighted the budget as a blueprint reflecting the state’s priorities, values, and commitment to its citizens.
Otu affirmed the state’s dedication to implementing the budget in line with the 2024–2026 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategic Paper. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to exploring innovative avenues to increase internally generated revenue for funding.
The sectoral allocation of the 2024 budget is as follows: Economic – ₦104,986,870,898.59; General Administration – ₦95,815,641,732.59; Social – ₦86,973,489,533.02; Justice – ₦7,947,139,687.33; and Regional – ₦1,262,390,126.53. Governor Otu concluded by emphasising the administration’s commitment to social justice, equality, and empowerment for all citizens.