The RT. Hon. Speaker of the Plateau
State House of Assembly,
Honourable Members and Citizens of Plateau State.
Honourable Members and Citizens of Plateau State.
Mr.
Speaker and Honourable Members, about this time last year I presented the “2016
Budget of Rescue and Hope” after series of addressing critical components of
governance. In fulfillment of Section 121 Sub-section (1) of the 1999
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, the Governor is
required to prepare and lay a budget estimate before the House of Assembly.
Accordingly, it is my honour to address the Honourable Assembly for the sole
purpose of presenting the 2017 Budget of our dear State, the Home of Peace and
Tourism.
Permit me to start this address by thanking the almighty God for bringing us to
the end of this year and for keeping the House alive and alert to its budgetary
responsibilities. All of you will agree with me that the year 2016 has
been economically very challenging due to the general economic recession in the
country occasioned by a drastic fall in National Income from various revenue
sources. The attendant effect of this is a drop in the allocation accruing to
the state from the Federal Government, which has been left at the mercy of
Money Banks for the servicing of debts that are owed by the State.
Despite
these daunting challenges, we have remained focused in delivering on the
promises made to our citizenry and today in keeping with the constitutional
duty of office laying before you the proposed estimates of the State for the
2017 Fiscal Year. Mr. Speaker, Hon. Members, I recognize and commend your
individual and collective sense of Patriotism, Commitment and selfless
disposition for service to your constituents, despite the non-availability of
financial resources. These include your speedy passage of bills that led to our
establishment of Plateau State Medium Enterprise Development Agency (PLASMEDA),
Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA), Plateau State Primary Health Care
Development Agency (PLPHCDA), The Public Procurement Law, The Tax Harmonization
Bill and most recently passed the 2016 Supplementary Budget, amongst others.
These efforts have confirmed your commitment to working in nexus with the
Executive and be a part of history in our collective pursuits of giving the
best to the generality of our citizens.
It
is therefore our hope that as I present to you the programs of this
administration for the next year 2017, we shall together deliver to our people
the very best that our progressive partnership as members of a Change
Government on a Rescue Mission can offer.
REVIEW OF THE 2016 BUDGET
PERFORMANCES.
Mr.
Speaker and Honorable Members, it is necessary that I give you an overview of
the performance of 2016 budget before giving details of the 2017 budget.
You
will recall I presented to this House last year a budget christened “Budget of
Rescue and Hope”. The underlying philosophy of the budget was aimed at bringing
our citizens from a state of hopelessness, poverty deprivation to
self-dependence. The 2016 Budget had a size of One hundred and Forty-Six
Billion, Six Hundred and Nine Six Million, One Hundred and Eighty-Five
Thousand, One Hundred and Eighteen Naira (N146,696,185,118. 00) only. The
budget was streamlined to address the 5-Policy Thrust of this Administration.
Emphasis on the Budget was on the completion of on-going projects and executing
key interventions under the Policy Thrust of the Rescue Administration. Details
of our modest achievements in the various sectors and under our five key policy
thrust were presented in my first year anniversary speech to the good people of
Plateau State on 29th May 2016. Permit me therefore to give the highlights of
the Capital Projects and Programs executed during the year under review based
on the Sectors for your kind acknowledgement of the successes recorded, in
spite of economic downturn.
WORKS AND TRANSPORT.
Despite
the lean resources, this administration has kept faith with its promise of
completing the on-going road projects that were started by the last
administration. Some of the roads have been completed and they include:
The
Secretariat Junction Fly-over Jos - Mazah road
Mangu-Gindiri-Lere
–Kadunu-Bakin-Kogi-Foron
Federal
Low-cost Housing Estate road Network
Dental
Clinic-Dogon Karfe-Great Commission Headquarters Road Network
Zololo
junction-Nassarawa Gwong Road
Work
is on going on some of these roads while others within this category have been
mobilized for the continuation of work up to completion. They include:
Dong-Rantiya-Gyel
Road Network
Dualisation
of Old Airport junction-Rayfield-Bukuru with Spur to Dogon
Karfe-Kugiya-Gbandang and New Government House.
Construction
of Kufang-Wildlife Park with Spur to D. Y. Bali and Bitrus Rwang Pam Road
Gungi-Shiwer-Dokpai
with Spur to Tiplk
Foron-Bakin
Kogi- Kadunu-Gindiri
Jos-Mazah-Angware-Buyo
Road
Langtang-Garkawa-Yelwa-Shendam
with Spur to Lalin
Dualisation
of TAEN Junction-Bukuru-Yakubu Gowon Express way Kugiya –Rahol Kanang Junction
Mangu-Sabon
Layi (COCIN Rehabilitation Center)
Construction
of Rukuba Road Miango-Dochai with Spur to Nigerian College of Accountancy
Vom-Farin Lamba-Kassa
Jengre-Amo-Katako
Road
Pankshin-Lankan-Dyis-Sihin
with Spur to Asa
Europharm-Dyei
and Zaramganda-Mazaram Road Network
Shendam-Kalong-Shimankar
Bridge
Construction
and Resurfacing of Maraban Jama’a- British American Junction
Bassa-Binchi-Buyo
with Spur to Zagun
Furthermore,
additional contracts for the construction of 16 new road projects have been
advertised and tendered for.
In
addition, the Government released funds to restore electricity supply to the
State Secretariat Complex which armored cables and other equipment were
vandalized and stolen when the renovation of the complex was being carried out.
The
State Government also procured 14 number Hilux Vehicles for the Ministry of
Works and Transport for the effective Traffic Management and revenue generation
by the Vehicle inspection Office (VIO). Above all, in the general
administration, to consolidate on the peace and security we have entrenched as
well as enhance efficiency in governance, official vehicles were purchased for
the respective government appointees, Ministries, Departments and Agencies
(MDAs).
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
This
administration has completed the remodeling of the Plateau State Governors
Lodge at Asokoro Abuja, which was revoked and completed under direct labour.
The Lodge is now well furnished and put into use.
To
keep our roads within the Township motorable and accessible, Government
procured 2-Road Patchers to be used in patching the roads in the city, which
are full of Pot-holes.
During
the year under review, contract will soon be awarded for the rehabilitation of
6km Angwan Rogo road Network in addition to many others within the Jos and
Bukuru metropolis to ease vehicle movement within the Metropolis.
LANDS, SURVEY AND TOWN PLANNING.
This
Administration has commissioned the Plateau Geographic Information System
(PLAGIS) project which has long been overdue. With this, applicants are no
longer denied Land Tittles as and the Process of Securing title has been made
less cumbersome with a 21 day delivery period for process compliant applicants.
The Government had also magnanimously approved a downward review of the rates
by 50% for Land Tittles to encourage Land Owners get tittles for their Lands.
Government
has also identified 4-Industrial Sites as contained in the Greater Jos Master
Plan for the development of an Industrial Layout. A piece of Land has also been
identified for a proposed Mass Housing Unity layout at Naraguta, along Bauchi
Road as part of Government’s proactive Peace Building Measures.
ENVIRONMENT AND MINERAL DEVELOPMENT.
The
State Government released the sum of thirty million Naira (N30,000,000:00) as
counterpart fund to enable Plateau State benefit from Erosion And Watershed
Management Project (NEWMAP) of the World Bank. So far, the State has accessed
the sum of Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000:00) for the programme to commence.
The State has also wooed Chinese Investors into the State seeking business
opportunities in the area of Solid Minerals , which is one of the three
critical areas of our New Normal and discriminating competences for
self-sufficiency and sustainability.
WATER RESOURCES AND ENERGY.
Government
has continued to sustain its support to this sector, realizing the fact that it
is the bedrock for the socio economic wellbeing of her citizenry.
The
State Government released Counterpart Contribution for the construction of 340
boreholes in Riyom and Shendam Local Government Areas. This programme is being
supported by the EU-UNICEF Project through the Plateau State Water Board and
Plateau Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PRUWASSA). Furthermore,
contract for the purchase of assorted water treatment chemicals was awarded at
the cost of One Billion, Nine Hundred and Ninety Nine Million, Nine Hundred and
Forty Thousand Naira (N1,999,940,000.00). In addition, government released the
sum of N23,000,000.00 as assistance to victims of the last chlorine gas
explosion that claimed lives of people living around the Laminga Treatment
Plant.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.
During
the year under review, government acquired and distributed 16,470 metric tons
of assorted fertilizer to farmers at subsidized rate. The total sum of Two
Billion, Fifty Eight Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira
(N2,058,750,000. 00) was used for this purpose to ensure the availability of
this essential farm input.
The
sum of Eighty Million Naira (N80,000,000. 00) was released to FADAMA III as
arrears of Counterpart Fund for the 2014 and 2015 fiscal years. This has
facilitated the opening of a FADAMA Bank in the State, and access to new
Project grant for the Potato Value Chain.
To
consolidate government’s desire in Human Resource Development and training of
Agricultural middle level manpower and extension services as well as enable it
meet part of the requirements for the Accreditation of its programs, the sum of
Twenty Million Naira (N20,000,000.00) was approved for the College of Agriculture,
Garkawa.
In
order to guarantee food security as part of the Agricultural Value Chain,
Memoranda of Understandings (MOUs) have been signed with some companies for the
setting up of storage facilities for fruits and vegetable, milk packaging,
diary/pigs, swine genetic center, poultry processing plant etc. The Panyam Fish
Farm is also being resuscitated based on MOU signed with SOLBEC Nig. Ltd.
TOURISM, CULTURE AND HOSPITALITY.
In
exploring of the great potentials of the State in the Tourism, Culture and
Hospitality Industry, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed
between the Ministry and reputable Chinese Company (One Belt One Road) for the
development of some selected tourist sites in the State such as ROCK
International Hotel, Plateau Hotel, Jos Hotel, Jos Wild Life Park and the
Solomon Lar Amusement Park. The Jos Wild Life Park has been able to acquire
additional Crocodiles, Red-fronted Gazelle, Derby Eland and Dwarf Cattle,
beside the replacement of the Lion which was killed as a result of an attempt
to escape from the park.
YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT.
This administration has remained faithful to its obligations to the National Youth Service Corps with the timely release of funds for its operations and the provision of facilities at the camp.
This administration has remained faithful to its obligations to the National Youth Service Corps with the timely release of funds for its operations and the provision of facilities at the camp.
There
has been continued support to the Plateau United Football Club which was able
to gain promotion to the elite division during the 2015/2016 Nigeria
Professional Football League. Mighty Jets Football Club is also receiving the
same attention. Work is also in progress at the Ultra-Modern Stadium along the
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Road (Formerly Zaria Road). Work is being intensified
and Government is committed to completing the Stadium and to International
Standard within the shortest possible time.
EDUCATION.
Education
as potent tool for Human Resource Development and in garnishing our major
policy thrusts will continue to be in the front burner of this administration.
Following the restoration of stability at the Plateau State University with the
overall governance restructuring, the reconstitution at its Governing Council
and release of over Three Hundred Million Naira (N300,000,000.00), over 17
courses have been accredited at the Institution. These have led to the
University’s graduates to being mobilized for the NYSC Scheme for the first
time in the eleven (11) years of the existence of the Institution.
The
State Universal Basic Education Board has embarked on the renovation and
construction of Basic and Primary Schools across the State. This was made
possible with the release of One Million Naira (N1,000,000.00) counterpart
which drew over One Billion, Five Hundred Million Naira (N1,500,000,000.00) to
the Board.
The
Rescue Administration has also remained committed to human Resource Development
with the payment of student’s scholarship allowances through the release of
over Two Hundred Million Naira (N200,000,000.00) for the payment of allowances
to students in higher institutions spread across the Country.
HEALTH.
The
health sector has also received the desired attention. In addition to the
aggressive renovation and construction of General Hospital and Cottage
Hospitals round the State, the State Primary Health Care Development Agency
fully took-off. Other achievements include:
Procurement
of 5 ambulances which have since been distributed to General Hospitals in the
State.
Release
of funds to offset surgery bills of 10 children with heart defects.
Release
of Twenty Eight Million and Seventy Three Thousand Naira (N28,073,000.00) for
the containment of Lassa Fever outbreak in the State.
Commencement
of full payments of Consolidated Medical Salary Scale Structure (CONMESS) and
skipping in career progression for Medical Practitioners, with effect from
September 2016 this industrial issue has lingered for close to a decade, but
with this it has now been laid to rest.
Installation
of Modern Diagnostic Equipments in the New Government House Clinic, Little
Rayfield, Jos.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION.
Within
the period under review, the Ministry introduced monthly Press Briefing on the
activities of this administration. This is in line with the administration’s
desired principle of ensuring accountability, transparency and good governance
and the need to carry the people of Plateau along in governance. The Ministry
has also signed a One Year Retainer Ship with 5 Media Organizations namely;
African Independent Television (AIT), Silver bird Television, Radio Nigeria
(Highland FM), Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and unity FM, Jos for
effective coverage of Government activities and dissemination of information to
the public. During the year also, the state played the historical Role of
Piloting the Switch-over from analogue to Digital Television Broadcasting. Over
200,000 pieces of set top boxes were distributed to the people of the state.
THE 2017 BUDGET ESTIMATE.
Mr.
Speaker, Honorable members, having recounted the journey so far and the
successes we have recorded under the Budget of Rescue and Hope, in spite of its
late commencement, our people have confidence that we will deliver more of the
dividends of democracy in the 2017 Budget. On assumption of duty we met a
virtually hopeless situation and disillusioned people and rekindled hope in
them, in the midst of limited resources and competing demands. If we were able
to move on this rescue mission and gave hope as promised and demonstrated, it
is only auspicious that we instill and build further confidence in terms of
service delivery as we move into the mid-term of the administration by May
2017.
Accordingly,
Mr. Speaker and Honorable members, it is now my honour to present to you the
2017 Budget, which is tagged “BUDGET OF RESCUE AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING”. In
this way, we will be building on the confidence of the people and that their
hearts should not despair or be troubled as we adjust to new normal, build a
new socio-economic and political compact that will create opportunities for
every Plateau citizen who desires to lead a meaningful and productive life.
The
2017 proposed budget has a total size of One Hundred and Thirty Two Billion,
Seven Hundred and Two Million, Two Hundred and Ninety Six Thousand, Two Hundred
and Ninety Five Naira (N132,702,296,295.00) only. The estimate is less than the
approved budget for the 2016 fiscal year with the sum of Thirteen Billion, Nine
Hundred and Ninety Three Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Eight Thousand,
Eight Hundred and Twenty Three Naira (N13,993,888,823.00) only. The drop in the
estimate is as a result of continuous fall in the revenue accruing from the
Federal Allocation arising from the fall in prize of oil as well as the oil
output due to crisis in the oil region. This therefore means, we need to make
realistic projections to reflect the current economic realities.
RECURRENT REVENUE.
The
Projected Recurrent Revenue is estimated at Seventy Five Billion, Five Hundred
and Fifteen Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand, Nine Hundred and Fifty
One Naira (N75,515,760,951.00) only. This consist of Seventeen Billion, Eight
Hundred and Fifteen Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand, Nine Hundred and
Fifty One Naira (N17,815,760,951.00) only as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)
and Fifty Seven Billion, Seven Hundred Million naira (N57,700,000,000.00) only
as Revenue from the Federal Government including Twenty Billion Naira
(N20,000,000,000.00) as Re-imbursement from the Federal Government.
CAPITAL RECEIPTS.
The
Budget Estimate is made up of a Capital Receipt of Fifty Six Billion, Eight
Hundred and Two Million, Seven Hundred and Sixteen Thousand, Three Hundred and
Ninety Eight Naira (N56,802,716,398.00), consisting of Nine Billion and Nine
Million Naira (N9,009,000,000.00) as Value Added, Twenty Five Billion Naira
(N25,000,000,000.00) Refunds from Parish Club Loan deductions, Three Billion,
Five Hundred and Sixty Five Million, Seven Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand
Naira (N3,565,783,000.00) Draw Downs from Donor Agencies and Two Billion, Nine
Hundred and Seventy Two Million, Nine Hundred and Ten Thousand, Five Hundred
and Nine Naira (N2,972,910,509.00) for Grants and Contributions from the
Federal Governments and World Bank Assisted Projects.
The
budget also has a deficit financing amount of Sixteen Billion, Five Hundred and
Eighty Seven Million, Eight Hundred and Forty One Thousand, Eight Hundred and
Thirty Five Naira (N16,587,841,835.00) only, which will be drawn from both
internal and external sources to augment the revenue.
RECURRENT EXPENDITURE ESTIMATE.
The
2016 budget has a Recurrent Expenditure estimate of Sixty Eight Billion, Four
Hundred and Twenty Two Million, Six Hundred and Seven Thousand, Two Hundred and
Eighty Eight Naira (N68,422,607,288.00) only, representing 51.56% of the total
budget Estimate. The recurrent expenditure estimate which is less than that of
2016 with 6.69% is made up of the followings:
Personnel
Cost Estimate – Twenty Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Fourteen Million,
Eight Hundred and Eighty Seven Thousand and Twenty One Naira
(N23,914,887,021.00).
Overhead
Cost Estimate – Twenty Five Billion, Four Hundred and Fifty Seven Million,
Seven Hundred and Twenty Thousand Two Hundred and Sixty Seven Naira
(N25,457,720,267.00).
Consolidated
Revenue Fund charges – Nineteen Billion, Twenty Million Naira
(N19,20,000,000.00)
This
Present Administration will continue to accord priorities to salary Payments,
clearance of Pensions and Gratuities as well as the release of overheads to
Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for effective service delivery by
workers.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE ESTIMATE.
Mr.
Speaker, Honorable Members, the Proposed Capital Expenditure Estimate for the
2017 Fiscal Year is Sixty Four Billion, Two Hundred and Seventy Nine Million,
Six Hundred and Eighty Nine Thousand, Seven Naira (N64,279,689,007.00) only,
representing 48.44 percent of total budget estimate. This is also less than the
2016 approved estimate with N9,091,385,953.00 or 12.39 percent. The breakdown
of the Capital Estimate based on sectors is as follows:
ADMINISTRATION:
Has an allocation of Thirteen Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty One Million, One
Hundred and Twenty Nine Thousand, Seven Hundred and Twenty Eight Naira
(N13,661,129,728.00) representing 21.25%.
ECONOMIC
SECTOR: Has an allocation of Thirty Billion, Three Hundred and Twenty Three
Million, One Hundred and Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Thirty Eight Naira
(N30,323,108,738.00) representing 47.17%.
SOCIAL
SECTOR: Has an allocation of Nineteen Billion, Five Hundred and Eighty Two
Million, Four Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty One Naira
(N19,582,452,541.00) representing 30.47%.
LAW
AND JUSTICE SECTOR: Has Seven Hundred and Twelve Million, Nine Hundred and
Ninety Eight Thousand Naira only (N712,998,000.00) representing 1.11%.
At
this juncture Mr. Speaker, I present the Sub-Sectorial breakdown of the 2017
budget for better comprehension.
EDUCATION.
This
administration is determined to funding the activities of Education which is
very vital to economic growth. To this end, the sum of Eleven Billion, Nine
Hundred and Fifteen Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Six Thousand and One Naira
(N11,915,666,001.00) representing 18.54% of the capital estimate in the 2017
fiscal year is allocated in the budget. Out of this amount, the sum of One
Billion Naira (N1,000,000,000.00) is earmarked for the completion of renovation
work of Fifteen Secondary Schools (5 in each of the Three Senatorial Zones).
Renovation of Technical College, Bukuru is allocated the sum of Twenty Five
Million Naira (N25,000,000.00). The three Science Schools under
renovation at Kuru, Mangun and Shendam are allocated the sum of Three Hundred
Million Naira (N300,000,000.00) for their completion, while Five Hundred
Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) is for equipping the renovated schools.
The
sum of One Billion, Five Hundred Million Naira (N1,500,000,000.00) is allocated
as counterpart fund for the renovation of Primary and Basic Schools and the
provision of desk and chairs across the state. Furthermore, in our bid to
improve the standard of higher institutions, the sum of Five Billion, Eight
Hundred and Ninety Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Seventy Seven Thousand Naira
(N5,897,977,000.00) is earmarked for building of Administrative Block,
Faculties of Arts and Social Science, Library Complex, Multipurpose Hall, ICT
Center, Health and Agricultural Sciences, Life Sciences as well as the
construction of Road Network at the Plateau State University, Bokkos.
Plateau
State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi has the sum of Four Hundred and Sixty Three
Million Naira (N463,000,000.00) allocated for the building of Entrepreneurial
Centers, Landscaping, Building and Renovation of Hostels and Staff Quarters and
provision of other facilities. Also the College of Education, Gindiri has an
Allocation of Five Hundred and One Million, Nine Hundred and Forty Three
Thousand, Two Hundred and Eighty Eight Naira (N501,943,288.00) as its Capital
estimate for land compensation, perimeter fencing, Landscaping and provision of
the other faculties. In the same vein, the College of Arts, Science and
Remedial Studies Kurgwi has an Allocation of Two Hundred and Seventy Two
Million, four Hundred and Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Nineteen Naira
(N272,404,419.00) in the Budget for Construction of Hostels, Construction of
Administrative Blocks, Renovation of Building and Part Fencing of the College.
Most critical too, Government will remain committed to the payment of
scholarship allowances to students in Tertiary Institutions to reduce the
burden on parents.
HEALTH.
In
our efforts to provide efficient Health Delivery Service to the Citizen of the
state, the sum of Four Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy One Million, Nine
Hundred and Forty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Twenty Six Naira
(N4,371,943,726.00) only representing 6.80 percent has been allocated for the
2017 fiscal year. This is in realization of the on-going massive renovation
work at the various General and Cottage Hospitals and the completion of
construction work at the new General Hospitals in Riyom, Kanke and Mabudi. In
addition, the upgrading of General Hospitals Langtang and Pankshin will be
given the desired attention with the sum of Four Hundred and Forty Eight
Million, Two Hundred and Twenty Eight Thousand, Four Hundred and Sixteen Naira
(N448,228,416.00) allocated in the Budget. The sum of Eight Hundred Million
(N800,000,000.00) is earmarked for the procurement of Medical Equipment and
Furnishing of Secondary Health Care Facilities in the State. A National Health
Insurance Scheme for the State Civil Servant will soon be implemented, while a
Drug Distribution Center to serve as a machinery for the control and regulation
of Drugs in the State will be established, with the sum of N150,000,000.00 set
for the procurement of the Drugs in that regard.
For
effective Primary Health Care delivery in the state, the Primary Heath Care
Development Agency has taken off. Consequently, the sum of Four Hundred and
Twelve Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N412,500,000.00) has been
earmarked for the renovation of Primary Health Care (PHC) Clinic in all the
Local Government, acquisition of Solar Energy and Power Bank for three PHC
centers per Local Government area, as well as the procurement of Ten (10)
Hilux Vehicles for distribution of drugs to PHC Clinics around the State and
the acquisition of Freezers for the storage of Drugs. Furthermore, we shall
intensify our efforts towards the promotion of preventive of Health Care, side
by side the curative measures in collaboration with our development partners to
strengthen the control of HIV/AIDs, Tuberculosis, Polio, Malaria, Measles and
other childhood killer diseases.
In
addition, the total sum of Three Hundred and Ninety Nine Million, Seven Hundred
Thousand Naira (N399,700,000.00) has been allocated to the three Health
Institutions in the State that is, Colleges of Health Technology Zawan and
Pankshin and College of Nursing and Midwifery, Vom.
WATER RESOURCES AND ENERGY.
Mr.
Speaker, Honorable Members, we are aware of the fact that a lot of resources
have been sunk into the sub-sector in the past but without any meaningful
results. There will be a serious overhaul of the sub-sector to ensure that our
people have portable water both at rural areas and in the township.
Accordingly, the sum of One Billion, Nine Hundred and Six Million, Nine Hundred
and Ten Thousand Naira Only (N1,906,910,000.00) has been estimated for this
purpose in the Budget. In realization of the huge resources being invested in
this sub-sector, the State Government will do everything humanly possible to
ensure that there is stable and potable water supply to our people through the
acquisition of enough water treatment chemicals.
In
addition, the Plateau Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies (PRUWASSA) has
been allocated Three Hundred and Twenty Five Million, Four Hundred and Thirty
Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Eighty Four Naira (N325,437,984.00) as
counterpart contribution to UNICEF for the construction of boreholes in Riyom
and Shendam LGAs.
On
Energy and Power supply, there will also be massive electrification of towns
and villages along the 33KV and 11KV lines to enable our people to enjoy the
national Greed.
WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION.
Mr.
Speaker and Honorable members, as a condition for Socio-Economic Development of
the State and confidence building in governance and social services delivery,
Government has already invested so much in this sub-section. Our attention will
still be geared towards the completion of on-going road projects and the
commencement of key once.
To
this end, the sum of Sixteen Billion four hundred and eight million Naira
(N16,408,000,00.00) only is provided for the provision of infrastructures
within the rural and urban areas of the State. Some of the major roads
earmarked for completion in 2017 fiscal Year include:
Foron
– Barkin Kogi – Kadunu Gindiri Road
Gunji
– Shiwer – Dopkai with spur to Tiplik
Jos-Maza
– Angware – Buyo Road
Building
of Flyover and interchange, including underpasses at old Secretariat Junction
Reconstruction
and Resurfacing of Maraban Jama`a and British American Junction Road.
Europharm
– Dyei & Zarmaganda – Mazaram Road.
Pankshin
– Lankan – Dyis – Sihin Road with Spur to Asa / Akong
Dualization
of Old Airport Junction – Rayfield – Bukuru with Spur to Dogon Karfe – Kugiya –
Mbandang – New Government House, Jos.
Tahoss
– Rim – Bachit Road.
Construction
of Dong – Rantiya – Gyel Road
Building
of Shendam – Kalong – Shimankar Bridge.
Construction
of Kufang – Wildlife Park with spur – Domkat Bali & Bitrus Rwang Pam Roads.
Also,
the State Government has advertised for the construction of 16 new roads within
the State. These will commence during the fiscal year and include:
Maraban-Demshin-Shimankar
road with Spur to Shargan-Angwan Rina-Angwan Dadi-Kalong-Nyak
Dokan
Tofa-Baáp-Kurgwi road with Spur to Lardang-Bwal-Kwoor-Tim
Shinkwam-Tungkus
(Shendam Bye Pass) road
Wase-Kadarko-Dadin
Kowa road
Dengi-Bashar-Gajin
Bashar
Dengi-Kwalmiya-Dugup-Gagdi
Dawaki-Gyangyang-Seri-Amper
Lankan-Dyis-Kagu-Sihin
Mangu-Bye-Pass;
Kuba-Tenti-Maunga-Daffo;
Kpsho-Chakurum-Kogom-Vwang
with Spur to Vom Vet;
Bet-Dorowa-Mazat-Kuba
with Spur to Nding;
Tasho-Ganawuri
with Spur to Dahreng;
Fobur-Naton-Fursa-Maijuju-
Zandi road;
Wase-Mavo-Gimbi road;
Wase-Mavo-Gimbi road;
Lohmak-Gazum
with Spur to Kumkwam;
COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES.
The
State Government is committed to improving commercial activities in the state.
To this end, the sum of four Billion, Ninety Nine Million Six Hundred and
Seventy Five Thousand Naira (N4,099,675,000.00) has been estimated in the
budget for this sub- sector.
The
sum of Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) is for the completion of
the cassava processing plant; One Billion Naira (N1,000,000,000.00) is for the
acquisition of BARC farms that was sold out some years back. The sum of One
Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) is allocated for the completion of
Foron Fertilizer Blending plant, while that of Bokkos will be reactivated.
The
State Micro-Finance Development Agency, which was recently created is allocated
the sum of One Billion, Six Hundred and Twenty Million, Three Hundred Thousand
Naira (N1,620,300,000.00) for its effective take off in the year’s budget. This
will encourage the establishment of small and medium scale Industries in the
State, thereby reducing poverty and encouraging self-reliance among Plateau
people.
The
State Government under the Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement will be
reconstructing the burnt down Jos Main Market, which used to be a major revenue
earner for the State. Traders will also be encouraged to patronize the
completed Rukuba Road Satellite Market to give way at the terminus area for the
construction work to commence. Already, a transaction Advisor has been
appointed for this purpose and the short listing of Prospective Developers
completed.
The Jos International Breweries (JIB) and the Highland Bottling Company Barkin Ladi will also be reactivated through the PPP arrangement during the fiscal year.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT.
Agriculture
is one of our most strategic New Normal and area of discriminating competences
against the dwindling oil revenue. In our efforts to provide food security,
sufficiency and employment to our teeming populace, the sum of five Billion,
one Hundred and Seventy Nine Million Eighty Six Thousand Naira
(N5,179,866,000.00) representing 10 percent of the total estimate has been
allocated to this sub-sector. The State will be spending the sum of One
Billion, five Hundred Million Naira (N1,500,000,000) on fertilizer subsidy,
while One Billion, Two Hundred Billion Naira (N1,200,000,000) is allocated for
subsidy on Tractors procurement, which will be distributed to farmers. The sum
of Five Hundred Million Naira Only (N500,000,000.00) has been allocated for
general livestock development in the State.
A
memorandum of understanding (MOUs) has been signed with Greenlands Integrated
Agribusiness Limited for storage and packaging of fruits and milky poultry
processing plant, as well as SOLBEL Limited for the resuscitation of the long
abandoned Panyam Fish Farm with Two Hundred Million Naira Only (N200,000,000.00)
as Government contribution.
In
addition, the Plateau State Agricultural Mechanization Services Corporation has
an allocation of Two Hundred and Ninety Three Million (N293,000,000.00) in the
budget. The College of Agriculture Garkawa is allocated Three Hundred and
Seventy Six Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N376, 500,000.00) and Plateau
Agricultural Development Programme (PADP) is given an allocation of Four
Hundred and Twenty Seven Million, Six Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand Naira (N427,683,000.00)
for their various agricultural programs in the State.
LANDS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.
This
sub- sector is allocated the sum of three Billion, Four Hundred and Six
Million, Seventy Two Thousand, Two Hundred and Thirty Eight Naira (N3,406,072,238.00)
in the budget. With the commissioning of the Plateau Geographic Information
system (PLAGIS) and the reduction by 50% of cost of Land title, more revenue
will be generated for the State.
The
Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) is allocated the sum of Five Hundred
and Seventy Six Million (N576, 000,000.00) for the rehabilitation of Urban
roads in Jos/Bukuru metropolis and allocation for the procurement of One (1)
Lowbed and One (1) Excavator. Also, township roads under construction and new
ones to be initiated are captured in the budget estimate. The sum of One
Billion, Eight Hundred and Seventy Million Naira (N1,870,000,000.00) has been
allocated for urban roads, namely;
Completion
of Akila Machunga (Utonkon – Keana ) Road with spur to Abattoir.
Jenta
Adamu with spur to Jenta Mangoro, Kabon and Tudun Wada.
PIPC
Quarters Road – Anglo Jos – Domkat Bali road with spur to Channel Seven.
Kabong
Satellite Market-Tudun Wada with spur to Mado Tourist Hotel and Sabon Gari.
Angwan
Rogo, Dualization of Zaria Crescent and Tafawa Balewa Road.
Jos Bye-Pass Roads, Development and Designs.
Jos Bye-Pass Roads, Development and Designs.
The
Directorate of Fire Service is allocated the Sum of Five Hundred and Fifty
Eight Million, One Hundred and Seventy Seven Thousand, Three Hundred and Twenty
Naira (N558,177,320.00) in the budget for the procurement of Five (5) Brand New
Mercedes Benz Foam Tanker Vehicles with 5,000 Liters Water and 500 Liters Foam.
The completion of the building of Fire Service Headquarters and fire stations
in Bassa Areas remain priority of the administration in the fiscal year.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION.
To
ensure efficient information management and dissemination, the sum of One
Billion, One Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Two Hundred and Seventy Five
Thousand, Two Hundred and Twenty Five Naira (N1,176,275,225.00) is allocated to
the Sector. Out of this amount, the Plateau State Radio Television Corporation
(PRTVC) has an allocation of Two Hundred and Forty Five Million, Four Hundred
and Six Thousand Naira (N245,406,000.00) for the installation of Solar
Power/Inverter and the building of permanent studio.
Plateau
Printing Press (PPP) has an estimate of Three Hundred and Thirty Two Million,
Nine Hundred and Ninety Four Thousand, One Hundred and Seventy Six Naira
(N332,994,176.00) in the budget for the installation of the newly acquired
machines, renovation of building complex and procurement of other machines like
Computer to plate, Jogging Machines, Numbering and Perforating Machines. We
will ensure that the machines procured are put to use by the agency.
Plateau
Publishing Corporation (PPC) has an allocation of Five Hundred and Thirty
Six Million, Nine Hundred Thousand Naira (N536,900,000.00) in the budget
estimate. This amount will care of the J.D. Gomwalk House and Standard Building
and the bulk procurement of consumables and vehicles for the distribution of
their products. Just like in PPP, necessary measures will be put in place to
Commissioning of the newly acquired machines into effective use.
TOURISM, CULTURE AND HOSPITALITY.
As
a major source of revenue to the state, the sub-sector will be given necessary
attention in this budget. The sum of Three Hundred and Thirty Two Million, Five
Hundred Million Naira (N332,500,000,000) is estimated in the budget for the
completion of Indoor Theatre and the Expansion and Rehabilitation of Jos Wild
Life Park. In addition, the Government is going into Public Private Partnership
(PPP) arrangement with a Chinese company to resuscitate Jos Hotel, Plateau
Hotel, Solomon Lar Amusement Park and The Rock International Hotel. Once this
is done with peace being sustained on the Plateau, the State will be a
destination for Tourists.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND MINERAL
DEVELOPMENT.
The
state is committed to keeping a healthy environment while the exploration of
her abundant mineral resources are done. To this end, the sum of One Billion,
One Hundred and Fifty Nine Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Six Thousand, Four
Hundred and Eighty Five Naira (N1,159,986,485.00) is estimated in the proposed
2017 Budget; Of this amount, Four Hundred and Fifty Severn Million, Five
Hundred Thousand Naira (N457,500,000) is allocated for Environmental Protection
(Erosion Control) and the procurement of solid waste Trucks as well as the
resuscitation of nurseries in the state. Dump sites will also be acquired and
developed for the dumping of refuse at Mista-Ali and Nyango-Gyel. The monthly
sanitation exercise will be sustained.
The sum of Five Hundred and Eighty Three Million (N583,000,000.00) is estimated for the Mineral Development in the state, with the sum of Two Hundred Million Naira (N200,000,000) estimated for the Recapitalization of Plateau Mineral Development Company. We shall continue to partner with Foreign Partners to improve our Investment Profiles in Mineral Resources.
WOMEN, YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT.
This
Administration is very concerned about this sub-sector and desirous of creating
more opportunities for Women Development in the State. In view of this, the sum
of One Hundred and Thirty Four Million, Seven Hundred Thousand Naira
(N134,700,000.00) is allocated for Women and Children welfare programs in the
Budget.
The
Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has an allocation of One Billion, Four
Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N1,450,000,000.00) in the proposed budget.
This amount will be used for the completion of NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp,
Completion of works at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Road, Stadium and Others.
For us to sustain the peace we are currently enjoying, we shall continue to
support and partner other clubs and societies in the state.
ADMINISTRATION.
This
sub-sector as the engine room of Government harnesses and coordinates the
day-to-day activities of the state. It facilitates the activities that enhance
productivity and efficiency in the Public Service to achieve set objectives.
To
this end, the sum of Nine Billion, Nine Hundred and Forty Million, Four Hundred
and Six Thousand, Two Hundred and Seventy-One Naira (N9,940,406,271.00) is
estimated for this purpose, representing 15.46% of the Capital Budget. For this
Government to achieve its 5 Policy Thrust, this sub-sector has to be fully
harnessed and the Civil Service have to be fully mobilized with the provision
of a conducive working environment.
To
further consolidate on the peace now being enjoyed in the state, a Peace
Building Agency has been created and is charged with the responsibility of
exploring all avenues for inter-religious and inter-ethnic peaceful
coexistence. The report of the Committee on the Creation of Districts, Chiefdoms
and village Areas will be carefully studied and its recommendations implemented
to give our people a sense of belonging in the state.
Let
me also mention that in order to ensure efficient administration of Justice in
the state, the new High Court Complex under construction will be completed
while more Courts that are in dilapidated conditions will be renovated, while
conditions of service in this sub sector is enhanced.
COMMITMENT TO THE IDEALS OF BUDGET
IMPLEMENTATION AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING.
Mr.
Speaker and Honourable Members, let me reiterate that a Budget is a statement
of intent on spending and its success depends also on the understanding and
cooperation of the Citizens who are the stakeholders and greatest
beneficiaries. On the part of Government, we are resolved to implement the
budget to the best of our ability as we have demonstrated in the past one year.
However, we note that expeditious considerations and passage of the budget will
enhance early implementation and improved performance rating that we desire to
achieve.
Given the enormous challenges of funds and to maintain strict budget discipline, we have streamlined and prioritized vital projects along our new normal, areas of competitive advantages and consultations that arose from our Town Hall Meetings that will also touch every sector and community. I reiterate our drive and assertiveness to block leakages with a view to improve revenue. Be rest assured that in running our Government on the core value of the fear of God, Justice, pursuit of Peace, and Unity, we will strive to sustain hope and confidence for sustainable growth through this BUDGET OF RESCUE AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING.
CONCLUSION:
Mr.
Speaker, Honourable members, this Administration remains committed to living up
to the expectation of our people. We shall with a sense of purpose, dutifully
pursue the greater good of our people, giving them the service that will
enhance their socio-economic well-being and guarantee their place in the
Plateau of their dream. Through the estimates in the 2017 budget, we intend to
consolidate all sectors of our economy so that good governance is felt by all
who reposed confidence in our ability to rescue.
Despite
the serious economic recession in the country, our people have demonstrated serious
patriotism and understanding. Their sacrifices have left us more burdened not
to betray the mandate they have given and for this we are determined to make
life better for the citizenry and make a difference.
While
urging the Honourable House to diligently peruse and deliberate on the budget,
I look forward to speedy consideration and passage of the 2017 Budget to enable
us commence implementation and service delivery from onset of the new year. In
fact, with your timely scrutiny and passage of the 2017 Budget, the confidence
to consolidate on what we have started will be further strengthened. I have no
doubt that having demonstrated good team work and competence in Legislative
Duties in almost two years of the existence of the 8th Assembly, you will be
more than willing to sacrifice time and synergize efforts on this assignment
for the good of the people.
While
thanking you for your time, I wish to extend my best wishes for meaningful
Christmas Celebration and Prosperous New Year in advance.
It
is now my Honour to seek the Permission of Mr. Speaker and the Honourable
Members of the House to lay the 2017 BUDGET OF RESCUE AND CONFIDENCE BUILDING
for Consideration and Passage into Law.
Thank
you and God bless Plateau State.
RT. HON. SIMON BAKO LALONG.
EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR.
EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR.
Tuesday, 20th December 2016.
No comments:
Post a Comment