CONCLUSION
71. As I stated at the beginning of this presentation, there are challenges ahead, some domestic, some international. The best we can do is to prepare ourselves against any future “shocks” and their probable impact on the performance of the economy. The reduced size of the 2020 budget compared to last year’s budget is evidence of our continued commitment to fiscal prudence.
72. Towards this end, at least 70% of the provision from the budget envelopes (capital limits) are to fund the relevant budget lines for:
(i)certified jobs already listed, awaiting payment;
(ii)certified jobs yet to be listed for payment;
(iii)jobs executed awaiting certification at the MDAs;
(iv)contracts awarded which are currently being executed by the contractors.
73. The balance 30% is to be applied to very critical, essential and key capital projects with measurable socio-economic value. To support these efforts at fiscal prudence, we have intensified the implementation of the Integrated Payroll System across MDAs to automate personnel records and salaries’ payment process, with the goal of eliminating ghost workers.
74. I am happy to report that the credibility of our Government has continued to attract local and foreign investors, and Delta ranks very high on the Ease of Doing Business index today. Going forward, it is very important that we strengthen the partnership with the Federal Government and continue to support and promote micro and small businesses to expand the economy.
75. Let me now take few minutes to appreciate all the officials who, and institutions which worked tirelessly to put this budget together. Specifically, I thank the Ministries of Economic Planning and Finance, the Office of the Accountant-General, the Directorate of Government House and Protocol, and Chairman and members of the Internal Revenue Board.
76. I also express my gratitude to the Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, and the other members of the State Executive Council for their zeal and dedication. As is often the case, no Ministry, Department or Agency got all that they wanted. It is the very nature of budgeting where needs always exceed available resources.
77. That notwithstanding, I solicit the understanding and support of all MDAs to continue to cooperate with one another for the development of a Stronger Delta where prosperity, peace and progress reign. It is in that spirit of unity, cooperation and collective responsibility that we will be able to successfully tackle and overcome the challenges that confront us now and in the medium term.
78. It is on this note, Mr Speaker, that I present the 2020 Budget Proposals for debate and passage by this honourable House.
79. Thank you for your time and attention.
80. God bless Delta State.
81. God bless us all.
Office of the Governor
Government House
Asaba
October 2019.
