The Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, Aka Eze Aka, earlier today, presented the 2025 fiscal year budget to the Udenu Legislative Council. The budget, titled the “Budget of Accelerated Growth and Phenomenal Progress,” aims to catalyze significant development across the Local Government Area. It draws inspiration from Governor Peter Mbah’s State fiscal plan for the coming year christened: “Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Progress,” which emphasizes holistic development for Enugu State, across all sectors simultaneously.
The presentation, which took place at the Udenu Legislative Council Chambers, witnessed the attendance of notable dignitaries, including the Leader of the Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Odoh, who warmly welcomed the Chairman. Accompanying the Chairman were his Deputy, Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Odoh; the Secretary of the Local Government (SLG), Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh; the Secretary of Udenu Stakeholders Forum, Onyekachi C. Ugwu; and Dr. Jude Okwudili Ukwueze, among others. The Legislative Chambers has full compliments of all the ten Councilors.
Dr. Odoh assured the Chairman of the Council’s readiness to expedite the budget’s approval, noting their commitment to the integral development of Udenu. He pledged, on behalf of his Colleagues to support initiatives that would transform the lives of the people and improve the Local Government’s overall socioeconomic outlook.
In his address, Aka Eze Aka reaffirmed his dedication to fulfilling the campaign promises he made to the people of Udenu. He described the budget as a reflection of his administration’s resolve to implement impactful policies and programs.
“Since my election as Chairman, my administration has resolved to maximize the use of our fiscal powers and constitutional responsibilities to improve the lives of our people,” he stated.
He acknowledged the financial challenges posed by dwindling revenues from the Federation Account and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). However, he expressed confidence in his administration’s ability to deliver on its promises through prudent financial management and transparency.
Healthcare is a major priority in the 2025 budget. The Chairman outlined plans to strengthen healthcare delivery across Udenu Local Government. Key initiatives include:
Development of Udenu Medical Center:
A state-of-the-art Medical facility will be established to provide subsidized healthcare services. The Center will feature an Emergency response unit, mortuary services, and a mobile clinic to reach underserved areas.
Preventive Healthcare Measures:
Awareness campaigns on diseases such as polio, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and hypertension will be conducted across all 10 wards. Routine fumigation of public spaces will also be carried out to prevent vector-borne diseases.
Access to Medications:
The administration plans to distribute anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive medications to combat chronic illnesses. Deworming medications will also be supplied to children under 10 years across all wards.
To address urban congestion in Obollo-Afor, the Chairman unveiled plans for the development of a new city, Maryland City. This ambitious project seeks to create a modern economic and residential hub in Udenu.
Key features of the proposed Maryland City include:
— Acquisition of 1,000 hectares of land from various communities, including Amalla, Ogwu, and Odoru.
— Construction of a sports complex, residential estates, and healthcare facilities.
— Establishment of educational institutions at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
— Designation of industrial zones to attract investors and boost employment.
“This new city will not only decongest Obollo-Afor but also serve as a beacon of growth, attracting investors and fostering economic development in Udenu Local Government,” Aka said.
In a bid to extend development to all corners of Udenu, the administration has prioritized rural electrification. Targeted communities include Ndabru-Afube, Odoru, and parts of Amutenyi Obollo-Eke.
The government plans to distribute 500kVA transformers and collaborate with relevant authorities to extend electricity lines, ensuring steady power supply to underserved areas.
The budget also highlights a commitment to infrastructure development. Key projects include: Construction and rehabilitation of critical roads, such as the Amalla-Ifuroka and Ukwu-Uvuru roads. Collaboration with the state government to rehabilitate major roads connecting Obollo-Eke, Ibenda, and other communities.
Education remains a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda. The budget allocates funds for scholarships to indigent students for both local and international studies. Additionally, dilapidated primary schools will be renovated to enhance the learning environment.
In the ICT sector, the government plans to transform the MDG/SDG Skill Acquisition Center into a JAMB center, equipped with modern computers and qualified trainers. This initiative aims to improve digital literacy among youths in Udenu.
Acknowledging the importance of security for sustainable development, the Chairman announced plans to:
Provide vehicles and motorcycles to the Udenu Neighborhood Watch for effective surveillance.
Support the local police with vehicle maintenance and financial resources.
Budget Breakdown
The total budget for 2025 is ₦4,526,450,000.00, with revenue sourced from:
Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): ₦150,000,000.00
Statutory Allocation: ₦2,225,800,000.00
Value Added Tax (VAT): ₦2,120,650,000.00
Expenditure Summary:
Personnel Costs: ₦1,952,766,447.00
Overhead Costs: ₦250,000,000.00
Capital Projects: ₦2,323,683,553.00
In concluding his presentation, Aka Eze Aka appealed to the Legislative Council for the speedy passage of the budget. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in budget implementation.
“With your cooperation and support, we can address critical areas and deliver on our promises to the people of Udenu. Together, let us work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for our communities,” he urged.
The 2025 budget represents a bold step towards addressing longstanding challenges and unlocking the potential of Udenu Local Government Area. With a focus on healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economic development, Aka’s administration is set to leave an indelible mark on the lives of Ndi Udenu.
The people of Udenu now look forward to the legislative approval and subsequent implementation of this transformative budget, which promises to bring accelerated growth and phenomenal progress to the local government area.
© AkaEzeAka Media Team.
