Abiodun Sets N1trn Budget Target for Ogun by 2025

Governor Dapo Abiodun

Ogun 2025: N1trn Budget Goal

Governor Abiodun unveiled plans to establish farmers' markets in three strategic zones across the state, providing affordable...

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun meets with labour leaders to discuss economic challenges, fuel subsidy removal, and transport fare hikes. He announces plans for farmers' markets, transport fare regulation, and relief measures for workers and pensioners.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State disclosed on Wednesday, September 11, that the state's 2024 budget of N703 billion has reached an impressive 80% implementation rate as of September. This achievement sets the stage for a proposed budget of one trillion Naira in 2025.

During a meeting with labor leaders at the Governor's Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun announced that his administration is actively working towards implementing the new minimum wage. This meeting aimed to address the concerns of organized labor and foster a collaborative relationship.

Abiodun commended workers for driving Ogun State's economic progress, and assured union leaders that the state will lead the way in adopting the new minimum wage, demonstrating its dedication to employees' welfare.

The governor stated: “Regarding the new minimum wage, everyone is working diligently, and I am confident that, as always, we will not be second in implementing it.

“I have instructed my team to roll up their sleeves and work efficiently without placing undue pressure on the people. We must be creative, plug financial leakages, and increase our revenue so that we can comfortably afford the new minimum wage. By the grace of God, we will not be second in its implementation.”

Abiodun appealed for sustained cooperation with organized labour, citing their partnership as a crucial factor in the state's economic achievements. He showcased the remarkable growth in the state budget, which has more than doubled from less than N400 billion to N703 billion, with an exceptional 80% performance rate.

The governor stated, “We have commenced an energy transition programme by converting our mass transit buses to CNG and launching electric motorcycles and tricycles.

“On Monday, we met with transport unions. They requested that we increase the availability of alternative fuel sources in the state and expand the programme due to the success it has already seen.

“The Federal Government is making rice available for us to sell at highly subsidized prices to everyone. The government is also providing us with 500 CNG kits to convert commercial vehicles, which will help reduce transportation costs.”

Governor Abiodun revealed that the state is targeting a landmark trillion Naira budget for the next fiscal year, demonstrating its ambitious economic plans.

The meeting, he explained, was a continuation of his administration's outreach efforts to collaborate with stakeholders in the public transportation sector, tackling challenges arising from the recent fuel subsidy removal. This move aims to address the sector's concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Governor Abiodun delved into the intricacies of the oil sector, attributing the current economic climate to the federal government's strategic decisions under President Bola Tinubu's leadership. He emphasized that these measures aim to reposition the nation's economy for long-term sustainability. Abiodun also highlighted his administration's proactive steps to cushion the impact of these changes on the general public.

“With the measures we've put in place, and as we transition from reliance on petrol to CNG and electric vehicles, you will begin to see a reduction in transportation costs, which is the root of the problem.

“Our commitment to energy transition is total. It is the only path to sustainability. Other countries have done this before,” he said.

Governor Abiodun unveiled plans to establish farmers' markets in three strategic zones across the state, providing affordable foodstuffs to residents. This initiative aims to enhance food security and mitigate the effects of economic challenges on the most vulnerable populations.

Governor Abiodun launched a task force to rein in unchecked transport fare increases, bringing together transport union executives, law enforcement agencies, and labour stakeholders. This collaborative effort aims to establish fair and reasonable transport fares, protecting commuters from exploitative price hikes.

Comrade Hameed Benco, Ogun State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), expressed gratitude to the governor for actively involving organized labour in the decision-making process. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement of price regulations, citing the exploitation of consumers by market traders who take advantage of the current economic situation to inflate prices.

Comrade Hameed Benco further urged the government to implement specialized transportation solutions for workers and students, aiming to alleviate their daily commute struggles during these difficult times.

Comrade Akeem Lasisi, Ogun State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, suggested adopting flexible work arrangements, permitting employees to work from home until economic conditions stabilize.

Comrade Isa Olude, Chairman of the Joint Negotiation Committee, appealed to the government to introduce relief measures specifically targeting workers and pensioners, seeking to cushion the economic hardship and provide much-needed support during this challenging period.