The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs is poised for a significant budget increase in 2025, with its allocation rising to N78.5 billion from the N6.5 billion it received in the 2024 fiscal year.
The sharp N71 billion increase is primarily driven by a N68 billion counterpart funding commitment for a World Bank-backed initiative, according to Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
During a budget defense session before the National Assembly’s joint committee on Women Affairs, Sulaiman-Ibrahim provided insights into the proposed spending plan. She noted that aside from the World Bank funds, N7.4 billion has been earmarked for the Ministry’s core capital projects in the upcoming year.
Breakdown of the 2025 Budget Proposal
“The total proposed budget for 2025 is N78.5 billion, a significant jump from the N6.5 billion approved for 2024. This increase is largely attributed to the N68 billion earmarked for a World Bank project the Ministry is set to implement,” the Minister explained.
She further detailed that, in addition to the project funding, N7.4 billion will be allocated to capital projects, while personnel expenses will take up N2.6 billion, and overhead costs will amount to N810 million.
Challenges in 2024 Budget Execution
Reflecting on the Ministry’s performance in 2024, Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed concern over the limited release of funds. Out of the N4.6 billion allocated for capital projects, only N869.8 million—approximately 18%—was disbursed.
However, she acknowledged that the entire N1.3 billion budgeted for personnel expenses and N565.8 million set aside for overhead costs were fully utilized.
Legislative Observations and Recommendations
During the session, the joint committee, chaired by Senators Ireti Kingibe and Kafilat Ogbara, urged the Minister to thoroughly review the Ministry’s operations to address existing challenges and inefficiencies.
The committee members also praised the Ministry’s efforts in boosting revenue generation, noting that it achieved an unprecedented internally generated revenue (IGR) of over N4 million in 2024.
In her remarks, Ogbara commended the Ministry’s commitment and encouraged the leadership to build on its progress. “Your thorough presentation and dedication are commendable. Please take time to review past records and address any unresolved issues,” she advised.
With the proposed budget increase and strategic focus, the Ministry of Women Affairs is expected to enhance its capacity to execute projects that promote gender equality and empower women across Nigeria.
