The fiscal policy is christened as “Golden Jubilee Budget for accelerated development’’.

In 2016, the Rivers Government budgeted N307bn.

Wike explained that the budget was designed to herald the historic 50 years of the state in 2017

He said the budget was premised on the need to consolidate on achievements of 2016 and restore the state’s economy back to a sustained growth path and expand economic opportunities for all.

He said, “This budget is underpinned by the following basic principles; first, enhancing the business environment, including tackling the security challenges for the private sector to grow.

“Expand our tax revenue base, and drive our economy through the value chain into becoming one of the largest economies in West Africa.

“Second, committing a greater proportion of available resources towards infrastructure development and public works to stimulate economic growth, create employment and reduce poverty.”

Wike said priority attention would be given to security of lives and property, infrastructure development and maintenance, education, healthcare delivery and empowerment.

A breakdown of the 2017 budget indicates that the total projected capital expenditure is N329bn, representing 70 per cent, while N141bn was proposed for recurrent expenditure.

The governor disclosed that the 2017 budget would be funded via revenue receipts from the Federation Account Allocation Committee, 13 per cent Derivation proceeds, Value Added Tax, Reimbursements, Internally Generated Revenue and Domestic credits.

He said, “The unprecedented increase in the capital expenditure, once again, underscores our commitment to direct substantial resources to the critical growth sectors of our economy.

“This includes addressing infrastructure gaps to accelerate economic growth, secure the state and improve the well-being of our people.”

Responding, the Speaker, Rivers House of Assembly, Mr. Dabotorudima Adams, said the presentation of the 2017 budget has proven that Wike was committed to the development of the state.

Adams commended the governor for ensuring that the budget covered all sectors of needs in the state and promised accelerated passage