Why assembly raised 2025 budget by N49bn — Commissioner
The Gombe State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Gambo Magaji, on Tuesday, explained the reasons behind the adjustment of the 2025 budget from N320.1 billion to N369.9 billion, as presented earlier by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya to the State House of Assembly.
Recall that Yahaya had presented a budget of N320 billion, but the House ratified N369 billion.
While briefing journalists on the reasons for the N49 billion increase at the ministry’s conference room on Tuesday, Magaji revealed that it was intended to cater for items not included in the original budget submitted by the governor.
He said, “The Speaker actually said that we sat and agreed. The governor presented N320 billion, but the approval from the Assembly is N369 billion. The difference of N49 billion reflects increases in some areas, not reductions. These increases were to cater for items the State Assembly felt were not captured.
“There were various items, some sourced externally, some internally. It was agreed mutually, and that’s why the N49 billion increase was passed.”
Speaking on the minimum wage, he disclosed that Local Government Areas (LGAs) are paying 32 per cent of the N70,000 minimum wage.
“They are paying 32 per cent of the minimum wage. LGAs manage their own funds and are autonomous; we do not interfere in their finances.
“After reviewing their figures, we found that their funds can only cater for 32 per cent of the N70,000. However, two LGAs may pay more. It was a joint decision with the LGAs, and we review their finances every month. As soon as their financial situation improves, the percentage will increase.”
