OZORO/Nigeria: The Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Godwin Ogorugba, has presented a N15.26 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year to the legislative arm, pledging to consolidate on ongoing projects while initiating new ones for the benefit of the people.
Presenting the budget, tagged “Budget of Hope”, on Thursday, Ogorugba assured that his administration remains committed to sustainable development and equitable resource allocation. He emphasized that government revenues should serve all residents, not just politicians or civil servants.
“My administration has made significant strides in delivering developmental projects across the local government. Local government revenue does not belong exclusively to politicians or civil servants but must be used to positively impact all residents, including men, women, the elderly, the youth, and every citizen of Isoko North,” Ogorugba stated.
The proposed budget comprises N9.45 billion (61.95%) for recurrent expenditure and N5.80 billion (38.05%) for capital projects. The revenue projections are based on statutory allocations, value-added tax (VAT), internally generated revenue (IGR), and other capital receipts.
Ogorugba was accompanied by key officials, including Delta State Hospital Management Board Chairman, Paul Oweh; Vice Chairman of the Council, Evelyn Aluta; Secretary to the Local Government, Vote Umukoro; Head of Personnel Management, Mrs. Irene Onwodi; Council Treasurer, Fejiro Elo Ogbogbo; and other supervisors and aides.
Meanwhile, the Auditor-General for Local Governments in Delta State, Ukpaka Ikenna, commended Ogorugba for what he described as an “impressive performance in office.”
Speaking during an official visit to assess ongoing projects in Isoko North for the 2024 fiscal year, Ikenna expressed satisfaction with the chairman’s leadership and development strides.
“I must say we are truly impressed with the work going on here in Isoko North, Mr. Chairman. This clearly shows that you are delivering on your mandate, and we encourage you to maintain the momentum. Also, ensure peace is sustained because development thrives in a peaceful environment,” Ikenna said.
In response, Ogorugba reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to people-oriented governance, emphasizing that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda is being actively implemented in Isoko North.
“Just yesterday, we fully paid for the enrollment of all primary six pupils in public primary schools across Isoko North. This is a government that prioritizes the people,” he stated.
He also highlighted plans to intensify public sensitization and preventive measures against cholera outbreaks, assuring that significant transformations would be visible before his first anniversary in office.
