The Federal Government of Nigeria has presented a comprehensive 2025 budget with a focus on key areas such as national security, justice, and infrastructure. In the proposed Appropriation Bill, the government has earmarked over N780 million for terrorism-related prosecutions, anti-money laundering efforts, and other criminal justice matters under the Ministry of Justice. Additionally, the Ministry of Works has received a substantial portion of the budget to fund infrastructure development, including road construction and rehabilitation.
In the justice sector, the government has allocated significant funds to support various legal and national security initiatives. N530 million is earmarked for managing terrorism-related cases and issues. This includes prosecuting individuals and groups involved in acts of terrorism and addressing their legal implications. A total of N100.99 million will be dedicated to combating money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure financial systems are not used to fund illicit activities, including terrorism. N150 million is set aside for the prosecution of criminal and related matters, ensuring the government can pursue justice in cases involving various criminal activities. N922 million has been allocated for the management of international legal cases, enabling Nigeria to engage in cross-border legal issues effectively. The establishment of a National Crime Database will be supported with N50 million. This initiative aims to improve data management and tracking of criminal activities, enhancing the country’s security systems. N350.19 million is allocated for federal judicial sector reforms and the administration of criminal justice reforms. This funding is designed to improve the efficiency and transparency of the justice system. An additional N55.57 million will be used for the development of a National Anti-Corruption Strategy Framework, aimed at tackling corruption in various sectors of the economy.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Works has focused heavily on infrastructure, with an impressive allocation for road projects across the country. A total of N1.013 trillion has been proposed for the construction and rehabilitation of 468 roads and highways nationwide. This includes projects of strategic importance aimed at boosting transportation and connecting key regions of the country.
Among the major projects receiving significant allocations are the Lafia Road and Otukpo-Makurdi-Keffi dualisation with N166.004 billion, the Kano-Maiduguri road dualisation (Section V) with N10 billion, Abuja-Lokoja road reconstruction with N6 billion, and Enugu-Port Harcourt road rehabilitation with N23 billion for sections three and four. Other projects include the rehabilitation of the Lagos-Abeokuta road (N8 billion), the construction of the Lekki Axial Road counterpart funding (N2 billion), and the dualisation of Kano-Katsina Road (N75 billion for Phase 1 and N34 billion for Phase 2).
Other provisions in the budget include N4 billion for the construction of a presidential helipad and jetty in Lagos, N10 billion combined for judgment debt and legal fees, N380 million for purchasing solar lights, and N1.7 billion for office renovations and generator maintenance.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed that the government inherited 2,604 road projects valued at N13 trillion, with a debt of N1.6 trillion owed to contractors. Following adjustments for currency devaluation and inflation, the cost has escalated to N19 trillion.
“The magnitude of the projects inherited by President Tinubu underscores the need for robust funding strategies and innovative partnerships,” Umahi stated.
The 2025 budget, tagged the “Budget of Restoration,” reflects the government’s commitment to addressing pressing developmental needs, ensuring justice, and improving infrastructure across the nation.
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