The Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Abubakar Y. Suleiman (Dangaladiman Ningi), set the tone of the 2025 budget presentation with heartfelt acknowledgments and commendations. Welcoming the newly appointed Emir of Ningi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Muhammad Danyaya, to the House for the first time, the Speaker extolled the invaluable contributions of traditional leaders to the state’s progress.

He praised Governor Bala Muhammad for his steadfast commitment to timely budget presentations, enabling the state to commence each fiscal year with a fresh appropriation law, reflecting a clear dedication to the development and welfare of citizens.

Highlighting the priorities of the 2025 budget, the Speaker pointed to key sectors like education, agriculture, health, and infrastructure as anchors for economic growth and societal development.

The speaker emphasized the need for early defense of budget proposals by MDAs, warning that non-compliance with legislative committees would attract strict sanctions.

Stressing the importance of public involvement in the budgeting process, he noted that public hearings would boost transparency, build confidence in the government’s agenda, and foster greater acceptance of development programs.

Despite prevailing economic challenges, the Speaker expressed optimism, citing the state’s near-80% implementation of the 2024 budget, aided by revised and supplementary provisions.

He lauded Governor Bala Muhammad’s visionary leadership, describing him as a rare gem and national asset.

The Speaker reaffirmed the Assembly’s unwavering commitment to policies that improve citizens’ lives, aligning with the Governor’s “My Bauchi Project” blueprint.

Similarly, he commended the adoption of the N70,000 minimum wage, viewing it as a much-needed balm for civil servants amid the biting economic realities.

In a clarion call, the Speaker urged the Federal Government to reassess policies exacerbating hardships, echoing Governor Bala’s concerns about their adverse impacts on livelihoods. He extended profound gratitude to traditional leaders, party stakeholders, and members of the press for their pivotal roles in making the budget presentation a success.

Concluding his speech, he assured the House’s dedication to a swift and thorough review of the proposed budget, pledging a seamless passage before year-end.