By HeapNews
In a move to support new financial commitments and enhance public welfare, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has signed the state’s supplementary budget for 2024, totaling N96.8 billion. This budget, approved by the Ondo State House of Assembly, raises the overall budget for the year to N492.05 billion.
At the signing ceremony held on Tuesday in the Executive Council Chambers, the Governor expressed that the budget reflects his administration’s dedication to both worker welfare and infrastructural development. “This supplementary budget underscores our commitment to the well-being of our workers and the development of Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
The supplementary budget earmarks significant funds to meet the state’s financial obligations, including the payment of the newly approved minimum wage of N73,000. This raise benefits both existing employees and newly recruited staff across various government sectors, affirming the administration’s pro-worker stance.
In addition to the budget signing, Governor Aiyedatiwa enacted a new law to expand the board of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC). He emphasized that the reform was aimed at “ensuring inclusivity and better equitable representation from the mandate areas.” The Governor also signed an amendment to the Ondo State House of Assembly Service Commission Law, which he praised as a collaborative legislative effort.
The Speaker of the House Olamide Oladiji, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, highlighting the administration’s transformative impact. “These giant strides have not only transformed the state in all facets but have clearly demonstrated your vision, capacity, intellectual ability, zeal, passion, direction, and a clear understanding of the enormous job ahead,” Oladiji remarked.
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Oladiji pledged the Assembly’s continued support, expressing hope that the new budget and laws would make a meaningful impact on the people of Ondo State. “On behalf of my colleagues, I assure Mr. Governor of our continuous support and cooperation to ensure the success of this administration,” he added.
The budget allocation for 2024 now comprises N246.7 billion for recurrent expenditures and N245.3 billion for capital projects, signaling a balanced approach to meeting immediate state needs and investing in long-term development.