Imo: Uzodimma signs 2024 Budget into law

Governor Hope Uzodimma has signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law.

The Governor said the success of the budget will depend on the prudent implementation of all the items contained in the document.

He also assured that the budget will act, both as a stimulus and catalyst for the growth and development of Imo State in line with the theme: “Budget of Renewed Economic Growth.”

Speaking at a brief ceremony after assenting the N592.2 billion budget into law at the New Exco Chambers Government House Owerri, on Monday, the Governor noted that the budget is unique in the sense that “in the history of Imo State there has not been an annual budget with a capital expenditure of over 82%, meaning when implemented the result will make Imo State the envy of other States.”

He commended the Speaker and members of the Imo State House of Assembly for the uncommon synergy and for conceding to his request to give the Bill accelerated hearing that culminated to its passage in law, “meaning that they understand the importance of development through expenditure proposals.”

Earlier, he expressed delight at receiving the Speaker and members of the House who brought the budget for assent into law in record time. He said: “It is what you get when there is cordial relationship between the Legislature and the Executive.’’

Governor Uzodimma promised to sustain the cordial relationship and synergy that exists between the arms of Government.

However, he called for all hands to be on deck to raise the revenue proposed in the budget to enable his administration implement it and to achieve the target.

The Governor urged everyone to join hands with him to “close all revenue leakages in the State, deal with all those who are fraudulent and the criminally minded in the Government circle who are determined to set the progressive clock of government backwards.”

He added: “Government will be ruthless to any public officer or appointee who engages in fraud and corruption in this administration going forward. I will leave no stone unturned in advancing the course of Imo State.”