The Bayelsa state government has commenced the process for the 2025 budget, aiming to create a financial plan that aligns with the needs of its citizens.
The government hosted a town hall meeting on Thursday, September 5, in Yenagoa, the state capital, to engage the public in the budget preparation.
The event, titled 'Citizens' Public Interactive Session for the Preparation of the 2025 Annual Budget,' brought together key stakeholders in the budget process.
The State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Flint George, who led the session, emphasised that the goal was to incorporate the aspirations and concerns of the citizens into the forthcoming budget.
Delivering his welcome address, Mr. George reiterated the importance of citizen participation in the budgetary process, stating that the session will ensure an "all-inclusive" government by having budget inputs from the people.
He highlighted the success of previous sessions, citing the inclusion of citizens' wishes in the 2024 budget, such as the completion of the Glory Drive road and the Science and Technical colleges.
In his address, the Secretary to the state government, Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, assured stakeholders and participants that just like in previous years, the Prosperity Administration of Senator Douye Diri will ensure that the 2025 budget will reflect the wishes of the people of Bayelsa state.
The Commissioner described the exercise as important, noting that the input of citizens is very important to have a people-friendly budget that captures their interest. in all ramifications.
Professor Ayawei further said that the citizens' wishes and aspirations will form the core of the 2025 budget, ensuring that the public funds are allocated to address their needs.
To evaluate the performance of the current budget, the Ministry of Finance presented the 2024 half-year budget performance report, showcasing the state's progress in achieving its revenue projections.
Our correspondent reports that the annual event demonstrates the Bayelsa State Government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance.
The commissioners and other heads of ministries, departments, and agencies, lawmakers of the State Assembly, policy experts, good governance advocates, traditional rulers, and opinion leaders were among those who attended the brainstorming session in Bayelsa state.
