Senator Hezekiah Dimka To Empower 150 Youths & Women.
Distinguished Senator Hezekiah A Dimka, representing Plateau Central Zone and Senate Committee Chairman on Drugs and Narcotics in his quest to empower his constituents has scheduled an Empowerment Programme for 150 youths and women.
The first phase of the empowerment is Training and provision of grants for youths & women in livestock,Potatoes and rice production in Plateau Central district.
30 constituents from each of the five local government (Kanam,Pankshin, Kanke,Mangu & Bokkos) will benefit from the training.
The two day training will hold on Tuesday 17th – Wednesday 18th November,2020 at Vel Sunset Resort in Pankshin.
The Senator has outlined series of constituency projects that will be executed in the days ahead.
The 2020 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture promises to be a memorable one as Plateau State gears up to host the National fiesta with a touch of excellence leveraging on its rich heritage and potentials.
To achieve this objective, Plateau State Governor and Chairman Northern Governors Forum His Excellency Rt Hon Dr Simon Lalong has given marching orders to the Central Planning Committee to make sure everything is put in place for a successful hosting.
State Commissioner of Information and Communication who also doubles as Chairman, Publicity Sub-Committee, NAFEST 2020, Dan Manjang in a statement in Jos assured the Planning Committee is up and doing as finishing touches are being concluded to host the rest of the country.
Manjang explained that the cultural diversity of the State and being Nigeria’s melting pot and a nexus between the Northern and Southern parts of the country offers a platform to reinforce Nigeria’s unity using arts and culture.
He stated that Plateau people have been mobilised to in their characteristic nature to extend their hospitality to participants and tourists.
The Information and Communication Commissioner said the event under the Chairmanship of Senator Owelle Rochas Okorocha, Chairman, Senate Committee on Tourism and Culture, who he described as a Plateau son has Governor of Yobe State Mai Mala Buni National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as Special Guest will commence on 22nd November and will be rounded off on the 28 of the same month.
He said the opening ceremony will hold at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos and the event will be rounded off with a golf tournament at the Rayfield Golf club.
Events to feature at NAFEST include traditional board game, Archery, Indigenous Fabrics competition, children’s Essay Competition and cultural Quiz competition.
Other events are choral music competition, traditional cuisine, children’s indigenous instrumental competition, children’s craft and command performance.
All events will take place at Langfield Leisure park Rayfield and will be observed in accordance with COVID-19 protocol.
Hon Dan Manjang Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Communication, Plateau State/ Chairman Publicity Committee. 13 Nov 2020.
GOVERNOR LALONG MEETS CONTACTOR & SUB-CONTRACTORS FOR LEGACY PROJECTS.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Friday 13th November 2020 met with the contractor and sub-contractors handling the Lalong Legacy projects across the three senatorial districts of the State.
Governor Lalong while addressing the meeting at the Victoria Gowon Hall, New Government House Rayfield-Jos, said the meeting was to listen to the stakeholders on the progress of work and challenges so as to resolve them to facilitate the quick completion.
He said the project which aims to provide high standard public facilities such as schools and Hospitals, was conceived to address the problems affecting the citizens of the State. He assured that his administration will not abandon any of the legacy projects.
“My administration inherited many projects which were uncompleted and abandoned. Even this hall which we named after former First Lady Mrs. Victoria Gowon was uncompleted but we decided to complete it. If we can complete the projects left and abandoned by others, we cannot fail to complete the ones initiated by our administration”, he said.
He also told the contractors that he will soon embark on another round of inspection of the projects sites, hence the need for them to be up and doing as no excuses will be tolerated. The Governor also said the President is expected to commission some of the projects when completed.
Governor Lalong also warned that the contractors must work in accordance with specifications as anyone who does not adhere to the terms of the work will be sanctioned.
The main Contractor Engr. Lawson Ngoa, MD of Bleneson Services said the project started well but was affected by delays occasioned by COVID-19 and funding which have now been resolved by the IPO, assuring that there will be more speed on the work now that the economy has picked up.
The sub-contractors also raised the challenges of inflation and high cost of materials which the Governor promised to address. Commissioners of Housing and Urban Development, Finance and the Chief of Staff all addressed various aspects of the Legacy Projects urging all parties to redouble efforts in meeting the timelines for achieving the work.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 13th November 2020.
GOVERNOR LALONG PREACHES PEACE AS BISHOP OF BAUCHI CELEBRATES 25TH PRIESTLY ANNIVERSARY
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says Nigerians must always show respect for one another in order to create the atmosphere for trust, goodwill and development.
The Governor said this on thursday when he attended the 25th priestley silver jubilee of the Catholic Bishop of Bauchi Most. Revd. Dr. Hillary Nanman Dachelem held at the St. John Evangelists Cathedral, Bauchi.
Governor Lalong who was joined by the Bauchi State Governor Sen. Bala Mohammed and other top Government officials described Bishop Dachelem as a man who has used the pulpit to preach unity, tolerance and good governance. He said the occasion provides a good opportunity to remind Nigerians of the need to shun all acts that promote division, hatred and crisis. He also congratulated the bishop for publishing a book “Youth Companion” which was launched at the event, saying the book will go a long way in assisting youths to focus on contributing positively to societal development and engaging with the system to address their grievances.
Governor Bala Mohammed said he personally attended the event to honour Bishop Dachelem who has been a man of peace and contributed immensely to the development of the State particularly in the area of education.
Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese who presented the book to the public commended the author for his service in the vineyard of the Lord and said he was proud of his commitment to inclusivity and bridge building.
While thanking God for sustaining him throughout his journey of priesthood, Bishop Dachelem said he has a lot of passion for the youth whom he said need to be listened to and carried along. He also advised them againt using violence to addres their problems, saying it is counter productive at the end of the day.
Rev. Dr. Hillary Dachelem is from Qua’an Pan Local Government of Plateau State and was ordained priest by the late Archbishop Gabriel Gonsum Ganaka in 1995.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press &Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 12th November 2020
The Northern Governors Forum has congratulated Mallam Mamman Daura on the occasion of his 81st birthday, describing him a statesman who has dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong said in statement that Mamman Daura’s record of achievements stand him out as a diligent public administrator with sound knowledge and experience who has mentored many in the public and private sectors.
Lalong said Nigeria and the Northern region have benefitted enormously from his deep knowledge and versatility which he has demonstrated throughout his career.
The Governor said as a journalist and public administrator, Mallam Daura demonstrated patriotism, diligence and selflessness in discharging his duties.
While praying God to grant him good health and protection, Lalong urged the elderstatesman to continue to offer his reservoir of knowledge to the nation in addressing some of the challenges.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State November 11th 2020
The Northern Governors Forum has congratulated Mallam Mamman Daura on the occasion of his 81st birthday, describing him a statesman who has dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong said in statement that Mamman Daura’s record of achievements stand him out as a diligent public administrator with sound knowledge and experience who has mentored many in the public and private sectors.
Lalong said Nigeria and the Northern region have benefitted enormously from his deep knowledge and versatility which he has demonstrated throughout his career.
The Governor said as a journalist and public administrator, Mallam Daura demonstrated patriotism, diligence and selflessness in discharging his duties.
While praying God to grant him good health and protection, Lalong urged the elderstatesman to continue to offer his reservoir of knowledge to the nation in addressing some of the challenges.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State November 11th 2020
NORTHERN GOVERNORS MOURN FORMER GOVERNOR OF KADUNA STATE, BALARABE MUSA
Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong says the Forum is saddened by the death of a former civilian Governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Balarabe Musa.
Governor Lalong in a statement said the passing of the elderstatesman is a great loss to his immediate family, the Government and people of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large as he will be greatly missed.
Lalong said “Former Governor Balarabe Musa is without doubt a political giant in the history of Nigeria as he demonstrated patriotism, passion and selflessness in his engagements. He was a principled man who stood for his convictions even when many did not agree with him. He demonstrated that governance is truly about service and lived a very simlle life”.
He said the late Alhaji Musa spoke out against oppression, injustice, corruption and crime with such passion that clearly motivated many younger persons to fight for the cause of democracy and also seek public office as a platform for service.
He said his legacies will continue to endure as he was an exemplary and mentored many who have impacted the nation.
Governor Lalong prays that almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest, and comfort his family, friends and associates.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum. November 11, 2020
2021 BUDGET SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. (DR). SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE, AT THE PRESENTATION OF THE 2021 APPROPRIATION BILL TO THE PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ON WEDNESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2020.
The RT. Hon. Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly, Honourable Members, Citizens of Plateau State. “A BUDGET OF ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND CONSOLIDATION OF INCLUSIVE INFRASTRUCTURAL GROWTH”.
It is again with great pleasure and honour to on behalf of the citizens of Plateau State, present the 2021 Appropriation Bill that outlines estimates of revenue and expenditure of the Plateau State Government in the next fiscal year to this Honourable House.
Let me begin by once again expressing our deepest appreciation to the Rt. Hon. Speaker, Leadership and entire Honourable Members of the Plateau State House of Assembly for welcoming us into this revered chambers to make this presentation. It is indeed another proof of the mutual and cordial working relationship that exists between the two arms of Government.
Mr. Speaker, you will recall that the last time I stood before this Honourable House was on November 26th 2019 when I presented the 2020 Budget estimates of the Rescue Administration tagged “Budget of Rescue and Infrastructural Consolidation”.
Since that was the maiden budget of our second tenure, we outlined the vision and determination to consolidate on the achievements of the first term by improving on our stewardship towards accelerated Socio-Political and Economic Development of our State.
The rationale behind the budget was to emphasize our Administration’s commitment and resilience to the ideals of continuity in governance, policy and program implementation, as well as sustainability in socio-economic prosperity and infrastructural development of the State.
This entire budget was to keep faith with the implementation of our Rescue Administration’s Three-Pillar Policy of Peace, Security and Good Governance; Infrastructural Development; and Sustainable Economic Rebirth. POST MORTEM OF THE 2020 BUDGET
Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, you will also recall that we presented before you at that time a budget estimate for the 2020 fiscal year, to the tune of One Hundred and Seventy Two Billion, Five Hundred and Ninety Six Million, Three Hundred and Seventeen Thousand, Five Hundred and Seventy Seven Naira (₦172,596,317,577.00) only which was prepared under a reasonable degree of consistency both in policy and realism since we came into office in 2015.
After legislative intervention and scrutiny, this House in its wisdom eventually passed into law an aggregate expenditure of One Hundred and Seventy Seven Billion, Three Hundred and Fourty Million, Five Hundred and Twenty One Thousand, Seven Hundred and Seventy Four Naira (N177,340,521,177.00) only which I signed into law on 23rd December 2019.
The recurrent component of the budget was Ninety Nine Billion, Three Hundred and Twelve Million, Two Hundred and Seventy Five Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Four Naira (N99,312,275,754.00) only. It also had a capital component of Seventy Eight Billion, Twenty Eight Million, Two Hundred and Forty Six Thousand, Twenty Naira (N78,028,246,020.00) only.
Barely a quarter into the implementation of the 2020 approved budget, the world was hit by the Corona Virus Pandemic which affected the global economy and sent down devastating consequences to the Nigerian economy and that of Plateau State in particular.
Consequently, FAAC revenue to the State dropped as a result of not only the drop in price of crude and natural gas but also in daily production. The COVID-19 pandemic also slowed down the already limited inflows to the State, which clearly showed that the implementation of our 2020 appropriation Act was no longer sustainable. This necessitated a downward review.
Working with this Honourable House, the Judicial Arm of Government and indeed all relevant stakeholders, we were able to put our heads together to come up with a reviewed 2020 budget that reflected the realities of COVID-19.
This saw the review of the budget from One Hundred and Seventy Seven Billion, Three Hundred and Fourty Million, Five Hundred and Twenty One Thousand, Seven Hundred and Seventy Four Naira (N177,340,521,174.00), to the sum of One Hundred and Twenty Two Billion, Eight Hundred and Forty Eight Million Eight Hundred and Twenty Two Thousand Nine Hundred and Thirteen Naira (N122,848,822,913.00) only (representing (69.3% of the Original Budget). The revision also factored in N14.8 Billion as COVID-19 response provision.
The revised budget which is currently being implemented consists of N42.8 Billion Naira as capital expenditure and N79.9 billion Naira for recurrent expenditure with a deficit of Twenty seven billion, seven hundred and nine million, four hundred and twenty one naira (N21,709,429,246,00) which is being funded from loans from domestic and external sources.
I will like to use this opportunity to thank the Legislature as well as the Judiciary for their cooperation that has enabled us to weather through this difficult period of COVID-19 amidst its attendant challenges on service delivery to our people. Although we are yet to get out of the woods, there is hope that we shall soon put this behind us.
Before I present to you the 2021 Budget, it is appropriate we take a look at the past performance of the 2020 budget and assess the achievements of government in the outgoing Financial Year. REVENUE MOBILIZATION AND GENERATION 2020
Since 2015 when we assumed office, we have continued to steadily improve on our revenue generation knowing that it is a critical factor to successful discharge of our mandate to the people as well as in the implementation of budget proposals. Consequently, in our efforts to meet revenue targets most especially the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), we have worked hard to achieve the new targets that we set for the State Internal Revenue Service.
This saw us giving final approval for the appointment of a reputable revenue collection firm to work closely with the Plateau Inland Revenue Service for the improvement of our Internally Generated Revenue. Between January to September 2020, we have generated a total sum of Sixteen Billion, Four Hundred and Fourty six million, nine hundred and sixty naira, six hundred and four kobo (N16,446,960,604).
This is despite the impact of Covid-19 which took a heavy toll on human lives and slowed down business activities in the State. That is why we concentrated on harvesting revenue from sources that were hitherto not enforced. We did not introduce new taxes, but yet were able to generate over N7 billion naira between July and September when the economy started re-opening.
As a government that is sensitive to the suffering of businesses across the State, we have introduced palliative tax relief measures to help mitigate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 on businesses on the Plateau. These measures include extension of time lines for filing of annual returns; waiver of penalties and interests charged due to late returns; reduction of interest for late payments; as well as granting of one (1) percent bonus to all tax payers who file returns early.
Other measures taken are the suspension of enforcement of outstanding tax liabilities and reduction of taxes payable by informal sector businesses by up to 50 percent among others. Added to this is the implementation of aggressive tax audit and investigation on all organizations in and outside Plateau State which led to the recovery of over N3.8 billon from Federal MDAs alone.
Government hopes to build on this trajectory to facilitate the maximization of Internally Generated Revenue accruable to the State. This we hope will make resources available for the delivery of services to our people as well as cope with critical Capital projects as well as recurrent responsibilities such as salaries and other Government running costs. This is crucial even as we have commenced the implementation of the new minimum wage.
In the spirit of Accountability and Transparency during the year under review (January to September 2020, we have realised a total revenue of Seventy Nine Billion, One Hundred and Fourty Three Million, Twenty Five Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty Six Naira, Thirty Nine Kobo (N79,143,025,956.39) only. This was realized from the following sources: a.IGR=============N16,425,710,071.02 b.SRA=============N28,168,222,280.50 c.VAT=============N10,492,876,473.52 d.OTHERS========== N1,083,446,246.87 e.DERIVATION 13%=== N 33,486,281.53 f.EXCESS CRUDE===== N 97,295,619.69 g.DRAWDOWN====== N1,900,000,000.00 h.DONATIONS======= N1,105,077,281.86 i.Bond============= N897,284,036.40 j.Foreign Loan======= N1,701,000,000.00 We have also approved 100% remittance of collections to all Tertiary Institutions in the State to encourage them grow at their own pace. RECURRENT EXPENDITURE 2020
Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, we have continued to ensure the smooth running of Government by ensuring that we build and maintain harmony and tranquillity between Government and Labour by not only paying salaries and wages of workers as and when due, but also ensuring full implementation of staff progression in terms of promotions annual increments and advancements.
With the support of and understanding of labour, we have commenced the implementation of the minimum wage, effective last month. Payment was initially delayed due to the outbreak of COVID-19 and its attendant impact on the revenue of the State. Needless to say, we ensured that all Civil Servants received their salaries and allowances as and when due even during the lockdown when they were at home.
The sum of Sixty Six Billion Seven Hundred and Twenty Seven Million, Six Hundred and Forty Nine Thousand, Seven Hundred and Forty Eight Naira Thirty Nine Kobo (N66,727,649,748.39) only has been expended on recurrent expenditure as at September, 2020.
I am also glad to inform Mr. Speaker and Honourable Members that we have commenced the enrolment of our citizens into the Plateau State Health Insurance Management Agency (PLASCHEMA) to carter for the Medical Health needs of Civil Servants and all citizens in both the formal and informal sectors.
We have equally continued to invest in the sustenance of the peace and security of our State particularly by ensuring that the recent events that stemmed from the ENDSARS protests were quickly contained and normalcy returned to our State. A significant part of our resources is still being spent on Peace Building Initiatives and Conflict Management.
During the period under review, the sum of Sixty Six billion, Seven hundred and Twenty Seven million, Six hundred and Fourty nine thousand, Seven hundred and fourty Eight Naira and thirty nine Kobo (N 66,727,649,748.39) only was spent as recurrent expenditure for payment of workers’ wages as well as salaries and Government running cost.
As we continue to keep our budget deficit as low as possible, I also wish to inform this Honourable House that the State Government has continued to settle its public debt and liability, which currently stands at about Fourteen Billion Three Hundred and Forty Four Million Four Hundred and Forty Four Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Six Naira Ninety Kobo (N14,344,444,756.90) only and from FAAC deductions only. CAPITAL EXPENDITURE 2020
As for capital expenditure, we have expended the Sum of Fourty Two Billion, Eight Hundred and Fifty-Seven Million, Three hundred and fifty-five Thousand Naira, Nine hundred and ninety-eight Kobo (N42,857,355,998.00) till date.
This amount was spent on critical sectors such as Administration Sector, Economic Sector, Judiciary/Law/Justice Sector, Regional/Geographic Sector as well as the Social Sector. Our emphasis has remained on continuing with both projects inherited from previous administrations and the ones initiated by this administration cutting across road construction, water and energy, hospitals, schools, judicial infrastructure, rural infrastructure, agriculture and tourism facilities among others. THE 2021 BUDGET ESTIMATES
Mr. Speaker, permit me to once again refresh our minds to the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). As you are aware, the Plateau State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2014, requires that the State Government prepares the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper which is a planning tool that defines government’s economic, social and development objectives and priorities as enshrined in the State Development Strategy 2019-2023.
It also details the strategies to achieving government’s defined objectives, and highlights the key assumptions behind revenue projections, strategic objectives behind the expenditure framework, and fiscal targets over the medium term. Furthermore, it articulates the nature and fiscal significance of Government’s debts and measures to reduce such liabilities.
Accordingly, the Plateau State MTEF and FSP 2020-2022 is in tune with the State Development Strategy 2019-2023, which articulates government’s fiscal situation and agenda in the midst of dwindling oil receipts and slowdown in economic activities resulting in lower tax yields and other internally generated revenues which have been exacerbated by COVID-19.
Despite the fact that these realities create a widening fiscal gap, especially as we begin the implementation of the new minimum wage, we have to redouble our efforts to ensure that we close the gap through innovation and adoption of strategies that will make us overcome the challenges.
In line with the Medium-term Economic Policy 2020-2022 requirements, we shall continue to re- position the State economy for local sufficiency, value for money and revenue optimization. Government plans to continue with strategic spending on critical economic sectors especially Agriculture, Solid Mineral Development (Mining) and Tourism.
This will enable us create opportunities for all segments of the economy and distribute the dividends of increased prosperity fairly across the society such that the indices of human development like unemployment, poverty, inequality will be addressed. We shall continue to build the capacity and fund the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) and other agencies to ensure that we empower our people.
Government will utilize its principal fiscal policy tool which is the public budget as well as other associated policies to create the enabling environment that would lead to economic transformation and growth. Using the One-Stop-Investment Centre, Government will focus on attracting Foreign and Domestic, investments, sourcing Local and International Donors Funds, as consummating Public Private Partnerships etc.
Mr. Speaker, Hon. Members, having laid this foundation, permit me to present to this Honourable House the 2021 Budget Estimates, tagged “Budget of Economic Recovery, Inclusive Growth and Infrastructural Consolidation.”
The underlying assumptions in terms of macro-economic targets of the 2021 budget are premised on the following: a. Oil Price of US$ 40 per barrel b. Oil Production (National) of 1.86 million barrels per day c. Exchange rate of N378.00 Naira to a dollar d. Gross Domestics Product (National, Percent Annual Change rate of 3.00) e. Inflation (National Percent Annual Average of 11.95)
This Budget was prepared under reality of the current economic realities, orchestrated by COVID-19 and with a reasonable degree of consistency both in policy and realism to our vision of achieving the three-pillar policy of peace, security and good governance, infrastructural development and sustainable economic rebirth.
Having carried out public consultation through town hall meetings and further engagements with relevant stakeholders within the context of the current economic realities, the Government is proposing the total budget estimate of One Hundred and Thirty-three Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty Two Million, Seven Hundred and Five Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty Seven Naira (₦133,482,705,457.00) only for the 2021 fiscal year. This has embedded in it a COVID-19 component of N11 billion naira only.
This consists of Eighty three billion, nine hundred and fourty seven million, two hundred and four naira, one hundred and seventy three kobo (N 83,947,204,173.00) only as recurrent expenditure, and Fourty nine billion, Five hundred and thirty five million, five hundred and one thousand, two hundred and eighty four naira (N49,535,501,284.00) only as capital expenditure.
This indicates an increase of Ten Billion Six Hundred and Thirty Three Million Eight Hundred and Eighty Two Thousand Five Hundred and Forty four Naira (N10,633,882,544.00) only representing 8.6% difference above the 2020 revised budget of One Hundred and Twenty Two point Eight billion naira (N122.8) only. This increase is as a result of increase in both Recurrent and Capital Expenditure estimates.
Mr. Speaker, Hon. Members, the 2021 estimates presented are intended to pursue programmes and projects with a view to achieving an inclusive and high income strategy, while securing an increasingly better life for all. However, the implementation of these programmes will require significant resources to close a deficit gap of Twenty Two Billion Six Hundred and Sixty Five Million Three Hundred and Fifty Six Thousand One Hundred and Five Naira (N22, 665,356,105.00) only. RECURRENT EXPENDITURE BREAKDOWN 2021
The breakdown of this year’s Recurrent Expenditure of Eighty three billion, nine hundred and fourty-seven million, two hundred and four naira, one hundred and seventy three kobo (N 83,947,204,173.00) only is made up of:
Personnel costs, salaries and pensions: Thirty Seven Billion, Three hundred and fourteen Million, eight hundred and ninety seven thousand Naira, seven hundred and seventy three naira (₦37,314,897,773.00) only. This captures the payment of the new minimum wage and pensions of workers that have left the service recently or will be leaving in the course of the year.
Overhead Cost: Twenty Seven Billion, Five and Ninety Four Million, One hundred and Sixty Four Thousand Five Hundred Naira (₦27,594,164,500.00) only. The running cost of government has also increased due to demands from our citizens
Consolidated Revenue Fund Charges: This Sector has an estimate of Seventeen Billion, Thirty Eight Million, One Hundred and Forty One Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira (₦17,038,141,900.00) only. RECURRENT REVENUE
The Recurrent Revenue in this budget is projected at One hundred and eleven billion, eight hundred and seventeen million, three hundred and fourty nine Naira, three hundred and fifty two kobo (N110, 817,349,352.00) only. This consists of the following:
Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): Twenty one billion, six hundred and eighty seven million, eight hundred and fifty one thousand, one hundred and three Naira (N21,687,851,103.00) only 2.Statutory Revenue Allocation (SRA) of Thirty nine billion Naira (N39,000,000,000.00) only. 3.Derivation (13% solid Mineral Derivation): Five hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) only. This revenue is accruing to the State for the first and therefore has been projected because of the hope of its continuity or reoccurrence in 2021. 4.Other FAAC Transfers (Exchange Rate Gains, Augmentation etc at Four billion Naira (N4,000,000,000.00) only. CAPITAL RECIEPTS 5.Value Added Tax (VAT): Seventeen Billion Naira (N17,000,000,000.00) only. There is a great expectation from this revenue with its review from 5% to 7.5% by the Federal Government. 6.Internal Grants: Fifteen billion, seventeen million and eighty-eight thousand, eight hundred and thirty six Naira (N15,017,088,836.00 only 7.External Grants: 0.00 8.Drawdown: Eleven billion, two hundred and ninety-one million, four hundred and nine thousand, four hundred and thirteen Naira (N11,291,409,413.00) only.
Surplus/Excess Crude: Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000.00) only. CAPITAL EXPENDITURE BREAKDOWN 2021
Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the proposed Capital expenditure in this year’s Budget is Fourty Nine Billion, Five Hundred and thirty five Million, Five Hundred and one Thousand, two Hundred and eighty four Naira (N 49,535,501,284.00) representing 37.12% of the total budget. The sectorial allocation is as follows:
Administrative Sector: Nine Billion, Eight Hundred and Forty Two Million, Four Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand Naira (N9,842,457,439.00) Only. This represents 19.87% of the Capital Estimate.
Economic Sector: This sector has a projection of Twenty Two Billion, Four Hundred and Forty One Million, Eight Hundred and Forty Three Thousand Nine Hundred and Seventy Seven Naira (N22,441,843,977.00) only representing 45.30% of Capital Estimate.
Law/Justice Sector: Eight Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira (N876,660,000.00) only. This figure represents 1.77% of Capital Estimate.
Social Sector: This Sector has an estimate of Sixteen Billion Three Hundred and Seventy Four Million, Five Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty Eight Naira (N16,374,539,868.00) only, representing 33.06% of Capital Estimate. SUB-SECTORIAL ALLOCATION 1.Administration and Finance: The sum of Ten Billion, Fifty Six Million, Ninety Forty Two Thousand Eight Hundred and Three Naira (N10,056,942,803.00) only, representing 20.30% of the Capital budget is allocated to the Administration and Finance Sub-Sectors. 2.Agriculture: In this Fiscal Year, the sum of Three Billion Nine Hundred and Nine Million, Six Hundred and Eighty Two Thousand Nine Hundred and seventy Seven Naira (N3,909,682,977.00) only is estimated for Agricultural Programmes, representing 7.89% of the Capital Budget.3.Commerce and Industries: The Estimate for Commerce/Industries sub-Sector is One Billion Eight Hundred and Two Million, Seventy Six Thousand Three Hundred and Sixty Four Naira (N1,802,076,364.00) only, representing 3.64% of the Capital Budget. 4.Education: The Sum of Six Billion, One Hundred and Twenty One Million, Four Thousand, Seventy Hundred and Forty Naira (N6,121,004,740.00) only, representing 12.36% of the Capital Budget. 5.Environment and Mineral: The Environment and Mineral Sub-Sectors have an allocation of Four Hundred and Fifty Three Million, One Hundred Thousand Naira (453,100,000.00) only. The Estimates of these two Sub-Sectors represent 0.91% of the Capital Budget.
6.Finance: The sum of Four Billion, One Hundred and Thirty Three Million, Eight Hundred Thousand Naira (N4,133,800,000.00) only. This Sub-Sector allocation represents 8.35% of the Capital Budget. 7.Health: The sum of Seven Billion, Twenty Two Million, Five Hundred and Two Thousand Four Hundred Naira (N7,022,502,400.00) only. This Sub-Sector allocation represents 14.18% of the Capital Budget. 8.Information and Communication: The sum of Four Hundred and Four One million, Three Hundred and Sixty Six Thousand Naira (N404,366,000.00) only, representing 0.82% of the Capital Budget is allocated to the Information and Communication Sub-Sectors. 9.Judiciary: The sum of One Billion Twenty Eight Million, six Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira (N1,028,660,000.00) Only, representing 2.08% of the Capital budget is allocated to the Judicial Sub-Sector. 10.Ministries of Lands, Housing and Urban Development: These Sub-Sectors are allocated Two Billion, Ninety One Million Naira (N2,091,000,000.00) only, representing 4.22% to the Capital Budget. 11.Science and Technology: The Science and technology Sub-Sector has been allocated One Hundred and Sixty Five Million Naira (N160,000,000.00) only and it represents 0.32% of the Capital Budget. 12.Tourism, Culture and Hospitality: The Sum of Three Hundred and Fifty Two Million, Nine Hundred Thousand (N352,900,000.00) only is allocated to these Sub-Sectors and their budget represents 0.71% of the Capital Estimate. 13.Water, Sanitation and Energy: These Sub-Sectors have an allocation of Four Billion, One Hundred Twenty Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty Six Thousand Naira (N4,120,966,000.00) only, representing 8.32% of the Capital Budget. 14.Women, Youth and Sport: The Sum of One Billion, One hundred and Sixty Two Million Naira (N1,162,000,000.00) only, representing 2.35% of the Capital Budget. 15.Works and Transport: The Sum of Six Billion, Seven Hundred and Sixteen Million Five Hundred Naira (N6,716,500,000.00) only, and the total allocation to these Sub-Sectors is 14.82% of the Capital Budget.
SUSTAINING GOOD GOVERNANCE, TRANSPARENCY & ACCOUNTABILITY
Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, we have in the last five years kept faith with our promise to run a government that is open, transparent and accountable to the people who we serve. Therefore, we shall continue to implement all strategies that will prioritise spending and ensure that our people get value for money in every government transaction.
We shall ensure that all civil servants discharge their duties with utmost diligence and excellence such that value is added and the benefits are clearly seen by the people. We have therefore put in place more practical avenues to reward excellence and punish indolence. This we believe will motivate the workforce.
With the appointment of a reputable revenue collection firm, we shall redouble our efforts towards rapidly improving our revenue targets, especially the Internally Generated Revenue which is crucial to funding the 2021 budget.
Having been recognised by the National Bureau for Statistics as the second least corrupt State in the country, we have continued to strengthen the work of the Treasury Single Account (TSA); the Efficiency Unit; Bureau for Public Procurement; Liquidity Management Committee; as well as the Project Monitoring and Result Delivery Office (PMRDO) to ensure that we maximize our resources and eliminate wastages.
Only recently, Plateau State was selected to join the Open Government Partnership (OGP), an organization that brings together governments and Civil Society leaders to create more transparent, inclusive, and participatory government.
As one of the 55 new members selected to join OGP from a pool of 112 applications, our administration is again stressing to the world its determination to advance the open government agenda locally and transform the way the government serves its citizens.
This comes at a critical moment as we intensify efforts to respond to COVID-19 while also facing strained budgets and climate insecurity and other challenges.
Against the backdrop of the recent looting, destruction and vandalisation of public and private properties and businesses by hoodlums which led to huge losses estimated at over N75 billion Naira, we are more than ever determined to continue the implementation of our Rescue Agenda.
Despite this setback and the consequences of COVID-19, we shall continue to engage all stakeholders including our youths as we work to create economic opportunities that lead to self-reliance and job creation.
As we continue to work towards our planned Economic and Investment Summit, which was delayed because of COVID-19, we shall leverage on the implementation of the 2021 budget if and when passed by this honourable house to improve our investments in productive sectors of the economy to increase our earnings, and provide some empowerment measures for the citizens. CONCLUSION.
Mr. Speaker and Hon. Members, once again, I am greatly delighted for this opportunity to present to you on behalf of the Plateau People, this “Budget Economic Recovery, Inclusive Growth and Infrastructural Consolidation’’ with the anticipation that you shall give it the necessary attention it deserves.
While urging the Honourable House to diligently peruse and deliberate on the Budget, I look forward to your cooperation in the speedy passing of the Budget to enable us commence implementation and service delivery from the onset of the New Year.
This is bearing in mind that timely passage is also going to be a boost for the State to qualify for more grants of the SFTAS Disbursement Link Indicators I and II as well as Additional Financing and Eligibility Criteria (EC I).
While thanking you for your time, I wish to extend my best wishes to you all and the entire people of Plateau State, and to appreciate all the support that we have been receiving overtime. We look forward the year with a blissful Merry Christmas celebration and prosperous New Year in advance.
In fulfilment of Provisions of section 121 Sub-Section 1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) it is now my Honour to seek the permission of the Speaker and the Honourable Members of the House to lay the 2021 “Budget of Economic Recovery, Inclusive Growth And Infrastructural Consolidation’’ for consideration and Passage into Law.
PLATEAU CENTRAL YOUTH ADVOCACY FOR DEMOCRACY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE CALLS FOR THE RECALL OF SENATOR HEZIKIAH DIMKA ON GROUNDS OF POOR PERFORMANCE.
Plateau Central youth advocacy for democracy and good governance is a nonpartisan youth group within the Plateau Central senatorial zone. The pressure group deems it fit to rise up to their feet to address incompetences surrounding the performance of public office holders, readdress community challenges in regards to the effect of puting their trust or given their mandate to people whom the development, growth and wellbeing of the society is contrary to public interest, but rather a self or personal interest/gains.
Few months ago, we stood out grounds alongside youths from various senatorial zone to #EndSars, policies brutality and to end bad governance in the society. To God be the glory, we have successfully ended Sars and we are hopping to end bad governance in Nigeria.
In pursuant to the provision of section 69 of the 1999 constitution which gives us the right and powers to recall any validly elected senator on grounds of poor performance and gross miss-use of office. On this premise, the plateau youths advocacy for democracy and good governance have initiated a recall process of senator hezikiah Dimka. The senator have been described as the worst performing legislature to have been elected in the history of Plateau central senatorial zone. The central zone which is the umblical cord of plateau politics have always produced workaholic senators such as Sen. Nasiru Mantu, Sen. JC Dariye and others. As the umblical cord, we have already set a benchmark of performance in the zone which the distinguish senator Dimka is no where close to.
Senator Hezikiah Dimka who made a lot of campaign promises during the 2019 general election have not achieve 10% of his manifesto, we are set to recall him on the following grounds:-
After almost two years in office, there is no single infrastructural development, no any tangible physical project to show despite receiving 29million naira as take home pay from the Nigerian Senate apart from constituency project allowance.
There is no human capital development, no youth empowerment and zero support of youth activities despite despite the heavy and massive support he got from the youths to get to office. Also money have been allocated to him by the federal government and other federal government program been appropriated.
The senator have no any visible contact and association with constituents in terms of town hall meetings and Congress to get input of our view so as to represent us better.
There is no any tangible bill sponsored or motion moved on matters of urgent public importance.
The senator failed to identify key and critical stakeholders from the senatorial zone to guide and advise his path, he refuse to associate with members of state and national assembly that falls under his jurisdiction for guidance.
The senator’s disregard, nonchalant attitude and the continues been a senator on condolence and felicitation. We did not elect you to be littering the social media space with condolences and felicitation without any physical presence around the bereaved or celebrating family.
Senator Hezikiah Dimka whose campaign promises is all about empowering youths have succeeded in appointing over 120 youths as aides but failed to pay their #20,000 stipends for 9 months.
This among other few reasons are the premise in which the senator will be recalled.
Plateau youth advocacy for democracy and good governance are calling on other youth groups, women groups, traditional institution, elites, religion bodies, students union to come together so as to save the future of plateau central, it is so disheartening that we are where we are due to our bad choices and decisions in the past.
We urged the aforementioned key stakeholders to give us the necessary support to gather signatures so as to submit a valid petition to the INEC chairman for the recall process be achieved.
It is our hope and wish that plateau central will rise again if the right person is sent to represent us, let’s reason together as one big family in other to save our future.
Sign. Bldr kwarsen Andokplang Gideon (Mniob, Fcial) Chairman, plateau central youth advocacy for democracy and good governance. nathanielandokplanggideon@Gmail.com
PLATEAU STATE YOUTH COUNCIL ELECTORAL COMMITTEE 2020.
Sequel to the inauguration of the Plateau State Youth Council Electoral Committee . The committee wishes to call on all Plateau Youths that are interested in contesting for various positions for the State Executive, Local Government Executives , Central Working Committee (CWC) and Districts . That the sales of nomination forms commences on the 9th November 2020. The Electoral Guidelines and Time Table can be gotten at the Azi Nyako Youth Center Dadin Kowa from 8:00am to 4:00pm , the office will be open from Monday to Friday daily.
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