2015 fiscal year: Governor Soludo unveils N607bn budget, vows zero crime in Anambra

BY SUNNY A. DAVID, AWKA

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has unveiled a N607 billion budget for 2025, dubbed “Changing Gears 2.0,” alongside a dramatic promise to eliminate crime in the state within weeks.

He made this promise while presenting the 2025 appropriation budget, titled “Changing Gears 2.0,” to the Anambra State House of Assembly.

The budget, valued at N606,991,849,118, represents a 48% increase from the 2024 budget.

The Governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to strengthening security architecture, ensuring the State’s zero-tolerance policy for criminality is effectively implemented.

Prof. Soludo encouraged citizens to unite against criminal elements, emphasizing the importance of collective action.

He highlighted significant infrastructure projects, including over 540 kilometers of roads under construction, the Ekwulobia flyover and bus terminal nearing completion, and the dualization of major highways.

The Governor also mentioned the construction of a link bridge in Awka and the development of three new cities: Awka 2.0, Onitsha 2.0, and a new Industrial City.

Education and healthcare received significant allocations, with plans to maintain free education policy, upgrade infrastructure in primary schools, and transform 22 secondary schools into smart schools.

The government will also continue supporting mission schools and provide grants to micro-businesses across 326 wards.

Governor Soludo acknowledged funding challenges but reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to frugality and transparency.

Prof. Soludo expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including community leaders, traditional rulers, and private sector partners, for their support.

He concluded by emphasizing the budget’s significance in shaping a better future for Anambra State, urging collective action to achieve the administration’s goals.