By Musa Tanimu Nasidi
The Executive Chairman of Lokoja local government Area, Hon. Muhammed Dan’Asebe Muhammed has presented the 2022 Appropriation Bill to the Legislative Council, christened “Budget of Transformation”.
Speaking during presentation of the budget at the legislative chamber, in Lokoja on Thursday, Dec 2, 2021. The chairman explained that the budget was aimed at actualising his desire to make Lokoja LGA great, as it will unlock the economic potentials of the Area when funds will be release to key sectors of the economy.
He tendered an estimated draft of Two Billion, five hundred and four million nine hundred and forty five thousand Sixty kobo, (2,554,945,60), for the consideration and approval of the councillors.
A total of eight hundred,and fifty eight million four hundred and ninety thousand naira eight hundred and twenty kobo, (858, 490,820), has been earmarked for capital projects in the 10 wards that made up the local government Area while one billion,six hundred and ninety six million. Four hundred and fifty four thousand, two hundred and forty naira represents recurrent expenditure.
Muhammed noted that despite the economic challenges, the council will ensured that monies receive from the federal allocation and internally generated revenue will be effectively utilised for the development of the area.
“It is worthy to note that the emergence of this administration on December, 15, 2020 happily marked the turning point in the course of recreating a new Lokoja local government Area. This administration and government will show sincerity towards the development of the Area as evidence in the ongoing revolution. Core infrastructures have been established in the Area of roads, Youth development, renovation of offices among others.”
The council helmsman assured that no single project started by his administration will be abandon after his tenure. He however noted that strong fiscal regime where Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), will be significant to the development of the Area, to checkmate wastages and leakages there by adding value to money that will be generated.
In her response, Leader of the legislative council, Hon. Bala Blessing Ogwu commended the council chairman for his efforts in distributing democracy dividends equitably to all political wards and communities in the local government, within his few months in office.
Hon. Ogwu, who is representing the people of ward A, assured the chairman that councilors will look into the budget, ask questions where necessary as well as give the budget speedy passage for the benefits of Lokoja LGA residents.
In his vote of thanks, the Majority Leader, Hon. Bashir Salihu, representing ward D stated that “today Mark’s another landmark in the history of this young administration in Lokoja LGA. We have set a record and we are committed towards ensuring a successful budget year.
“I wish to appreciate and thank everyone for you presence and with all save journey to your various destinations.”
The Chairman was accompanied by the APC Chairman, Alhaji Maikudi Bature, party chieftains among other officers of the council.
