The Nigerian Senate has officially approved the N1.485 trillion budget proposal submitted by the Rivers State government for the fiscal year 2025.

The approval, granted during today’s plenary session, marks a significant step in the state’s financial planning and development agenda.

The budget, which outlines the state’s projected revenue and expenditure for the upcoming year, will now pave the way for the implementation of various projects and initiatives across Rivers State.

Details of the budget’s allocation, including specific sectors and priorities, are expected to be released by the Rivers State government in the coming days.

The Senate’s approval underscores its commitment to supporting the economic growth and development of the states within the federation.

This action enables Rivers State to proceed with its plans for infrastructure, social services, and other key areas crucial for the well-being of its citizens.

Further updates and analysis of the approved budget are anticipated as the year progresses.

In a significant political development, Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South, has officially defected from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement, made earlier today, marks a notable shift in the political alignment of the region.

Senator Imasuen’s move is expected to reshape the political dynamics in Edo South, potentially strengthening the APC’s presence and influence.

The defection comes as a surprise to some, given the Labour Party’s recent rise in popularity.

Details surrounding the reasons for Senator Imasuen’s decision remain limited, but the APC has welcomed the senator, highlighting the party’s commitment to inclusivity and growth.

Political analysts are already speculating on the implications of this change, examining its impact on the Labour Party’s future and the APC’s strategic advantage in the region.

Further developments are anticipated as the political landscape in Edo State continues to evolve.

……Receives 110 applications for Registrations

The Independent National Electoral Commisson, INEC, has on Wednesday confirmed the reception of 110 applications from association for registration as political parties, the highest since 2019.

The submission of the application comes ahead of the 2027 election.

However, the People’s Redemption Party, being piloted by a former chairman of INEC, Prof Attahiru Jega and others could not make it.

Prof Mahmoud Yakubu, the chairman of INEC, who stated these at the second regular consultative meeting with media executives in Abuja, also reassured Nigerians that under the current situation, it will continue to be guided by law and act with fairness to all associations seeking registration as political parties and will treat all requests fairly irrespective of the status of their promoters, be they ordinary or prominent citizens.

See full list of Applicants below: