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Tag: Reps

  • Reps propose increased funding for foreign missions, aviation ministry, others

    Reps propose increased funding for foreign missions, aviation ministry, others

    The House of Representatives will propose an improved funding of Nigerian foreign missions and the Ministry of Aviation in the 2025 budget which will soon be passed by the National Assembly.

    The House is also pushing for adequate funding for some government agencies, such as the National Identity Management Commission, the National Youth Service Corps, and the Nigerian Defence Academy.

    Deputy spokesman of the House, Phillip Agbese (APC, Benue) said in an interview that some agencies considered very critical to the nation’s socio-economic development have been pencilled down for improved funding in 2025 by the lawmakers.

    During the recent budget defence, several government agencies complained about poor funding, questioning the envelope system of budgeting being adopted by the government.

    Agbese who stressed the commitment of the Speaker Tajudeen Abbas-led House to playing its part in birthing a new Nigeria appealed to Nigerians to be hopeful, adding that the current hardship being felt across the country will soon give way to national prosperity.

    He said: “We are making a case for improved funding for the National Identity Management Commission, the National Youth Service Corps, and the Nigerian Defence Academy in the 2025 budget proposal. Other agencies of government are likely to benefit from this too.

    “Yes, NIMC has become a very important agency of government in the past few years. A lot of Nigerians may not know how critical the agency is but we can’t talk about a national data bank without making empowering that commission.

    “They came up with a robust projection for 2025 but they can only deliver if they are empowered to train their staff members, and acquire the latest technological devices critical to the work they do. Without the NIMC, the war against terrorism will be difficult for the government and the security agencies.”

    He maintained that the time has come for the reformation of the NYSC scheme, given its contribution to the manpower needs of the nation in both the public and private sectors.

    “The ideal of the NYSC must be sustained and this informed the decision to demand adequate funding of the corps. It is too early to disclose the amount we have agreed on but it is important to say that the National Assembly is not happy with the state of the NYSC.

    “We have it to be better funded to meet the needs of corps members. During their service years; they gave a lot to the nation in a way that cannot be explained with ease.

    “At a time terrorists continue to come up with new strategies despite the gallantry of our troops; we cannot but devise means to outwit them. One of the ways to do this is to improve the funding of the institutions charged with the mandate of building the capacity of our security personnel to tackle emerging security challenges.

    “In all this, we also realized that the budget envelope system is not enough to meet the capital expenditure needs of most of these agencies.

    “If you recall when the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle appeared before the House Committee on Defence to defend the ministry’s budget; one of the things he complained about was the paltry allocation of N50bn in the 2025 budget proposal. It is the same story for other agencies of government.”

    Read Also: Oyo Reps caucus, MUSWEN commiserate with Makinde over brother’s death

    He said further that foreign missions deserve commendation for their services to the nation, adding that an upward review of their budget estimates has been agreed by the House.

    Agbese said: “We have made a case for the missions because of the critical services they are rendering to Nigerians in other countries,” he said, pointing also that the parliament has been very impressed with the stewardship of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

    “The Aviation Ministry under the watch of Festus Keyamo has brought in a lot of reforms aimed at boosting the government’s revenue as well as improving our national image. We are prepared to improve on the funding of the Ministry in this year’s budget proposal.

    Agbese urged Nigerians to stay optimistic in the New Year, noting that the federal government with the support of the National Assembly is working hard to make life enjoyable to the citizens within the shortest possible time.

  • Reps committed to upholding transparency in governance, says spokesman

    Reps committed to upholding transparency in governance, says spokesman

    Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Akintunde Rotimi, has said that the House was committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance.

    In a goodwill message during the launch of tracks 2023/2024 report on budget performance by some Ministries Department and Agencies of government, Rotimi said the House remain committed to fostering open governance and promoting citizen participation in legislative processes.

    He said: “On behalf of the House of Representatives, I commend BudgIT and the Tracka team for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that government projects go beyond budgetary figures to become tangible interventions that positively impact the lives of Nigerians.

    “The insights presented in this report are invaluable, providing a data-driven foundation for assessing the efficiency of service delivery and the impact of public projects. The statistics shared – tracking over 1,400 projects across 25 states, with a total allocation of ₦282 billion – underscore the importance of civic oversight in promoting government accountability.

    “In the 10th National Assembly, we recognize the significance of collaborative governance, where citizens, civil society, and the private sector play active roles in complementing legislative oversight. Platforms like Tracka serve as crucial tools in bridging the gap between policy intent and real-life impact.

    “This initiative aligns with our Open Governance objectives under our Legislative Agenda, which prioritizes transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. As representatives of the people, we welcome initiatives that enhance public participation and strengthen institutional accountability.

    “However, while oversight and advocacy are crucial, civil society organizations must embrace a collaborative approach in engaging with the parliament. 

    Read Also: Reps panel to probes severance package for political appointees

    “The adversarial dynamics that sometimes characterize interactions between CSOs and government institutions can be counterproductive. We encourage constructive engagement that fosters mutual respect and shared responsibility in driving national development.

    “The theme of the report, “Achieving National Development through Efficient Service Delivery,” resonates deeply with the legislative priorities of the House. Through our various committees, we remain committed to strengthening the budget process, ensuring project execution aligns with appropriated funds, and holding implementing agencies accountable.

    “As we receive the findings and recommendations from this report, I assure you that the House will continue to welcome evidence-based advocacy that enhances governance. We urge Tracka and other civic tech organizations to sustain this effort, as their work contributes immensely to fostering a more transparent and accountable Nigeria.”

  • Reps aspirant leads SDP defectors to PDP in Ibadan

    Reps aspirant leads SDP defectors to PDP in Ibadan

    A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and House of Representatives aspirant, John Ogunsola, has led hundreds of defectors from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to the PDP in Oluyole Local Government.

    Speaking at the event, Ogunsola commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s developmental strides in Oyo State and pledged to strengthen grassroots support for the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    He urged existing party members to welcome the new defectors with open arms and emphasized the need for unity to sustain the state’s progress.

    Receiving the defectors at the PDP secretariat, Oluyole Local Government Chairman Mukaila Adegbola congratulated them on their decision to join the ruling party. 

    He assured them that they would not regret their move, adding that the PDP remains committed to driving growth, development, and democratic dividends in the state.

    Read Also: PDP governors visit, condole Makinde on brother’s death

    He said: “PDP will continue to be substance for growth and development of the citizens and a true reward for dividend of democracy. The good work of the governor makes it an easy-win for John Ogunsola  efforts, to canvass the members of the SDP into the People’s Democratic Party.”

    Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Dauda Hamsat Awayewaserere, attributed their decisions to join PDP to good leadership style and excellent performance of the state Governor Seyi Makinde.

    He assured leadership of PDP of their maximum support and loyalty, adding that many other SDP members in their large numbers, would soon join the People’s democratic party.

    He however said they would not relent in making PDP as a party more virile in the local government and the state through total commitment and loyalty.

  • Reps seek probe into death of two EFCC operatives 

    Reps seek probe into death of two EFCC operatives 

    The House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes has called for thorough investigation into the recent death of two operatives of the Economic and Finance Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    The Committee made the call in a letter signed by its Clerk, Austen Adesoro and 

    addressed to the Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede. 

    It also commiserated with the anti-graft agency over the tragic loss of the two men. 

    A copy of the letter titled: “Condolence message on the demise of Aminu Sahabi and Remedy S. Yange” which was sighted by our Correspendent, in Abuja, reads in part: “I am directed to write your Commission on the news of the sudden demise of Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, (ASE 11), Aminu Sahabi Salisu, who met his death while on active national service on January 17th, 2025 and Remedy S. Yange, a reputable investigative officer who recently slumped abruptly and died in Lagos which got to us like a bolt from the blues.

    Read Also: We have done due diligence on 2025 budget, says Reps deputy spokesman

    “The cold-blooded murder and sudden collapse of these particular gallant, young and fearless patriots are one too many, mostly when one was allegedly done by one suspected internet fraudster in Enugu and the other under questionable circumstances that require full investigation.

    “We are indeed deeply saddened by this unfortunate and utterly tragic loss of these operatives, and use this medium to express our heartfelt condolences to you at the EFCC Headquarters, and operatives at the Enugu and Benue Zonal Command.

    “While we call for a thorough investigation into the real cause of the death of these noble men, it is our prayer that the souls of Aminu Sahabi Salisu and Remedy S. Yange find eternal rest as we are convinced that those who have chosen to live dangerously on the fast lane, by deliberately indulging in heinous financial criminalities, and by implications, bringing untold calamity on unsuspecting innocent citizens of our country, will never have the last laugh, in our joint national commitment to sanitize the financial sector of the Nigerian economy.

    “Once again, on behalf of the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes, please accept our deepest condolences.”

  • Reps demand full release of 2024 capital allocation to security sector

    Reps demand full release of 2024 capital allocation to security sector

    • DSS to deploy geospatial intelligence to combat insecurity, says DG

    The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct Finance Minister Wale Edun to release the 2024 capital allocation to the security and intelligence sector.

    Committee Chairman Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno) spoke at the budget defence session of agencies under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

    The committee chairman said capital allocation to some intelligence agencies had not been released while releases to others had not been encouraging.

    He noted that even though there is an appreciable allocation to the security sector, the intelligence subsector had been grossly underfunded.

    According to him, the committee will find ways to ensure an increase in the budget to the sector.

    Agencies that appeared at the budget defence included the ONSA, the Directorate of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Presidential Air Fleets, the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), the National Counter Terrorism Centre and the National Cybercrimes Coordination Centre.

    Satomi stressed the need for collective efforts to ensure the security and welfare of Nigerians across the country.

    The chairman explained that the committee’s oversight jurisdiction encompasses critical agencies that play vital role in maintaining national security.

    According to him, it is the duty of everyone to ensure that they are adequately equipped to discharge their mandates in a responsible and accountable manner.

    He recalled that President Tinubu presented the 2025 budget of N49.7 trillion to a joint session of the National Assembly with an expected revenue of N36.35 trillion and a budget deficit of N13.39 trillion.

    Praising the President for allocating about N4.91 trillion to the Defence and Security sector thus underscoring the priority accorded security in this year’s budget, Satomi regretted that the intelligence subsector appeared grossly underfunded.

    The committee chairman said the intelligence subsector was allocated N595,024,943,368 billion out of which the proposed capital expenditure allocation is N274,550,298,453.00, the overhead allocation is N107,963,187,783, and personnel cost is N212,511,457,132 billion

    He said: “It is imperative to note that the 2025 Budget is christened: ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity.’ Securing peace presupposes that a lot of engagements with citizens will be undertaken by the government at all levels.

    “Deradicalisation, disarmament, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, among others, will have to be carried out as a major non-kinetic initiative by the Federal Government of Nigeria in collaboration with other tiers of government.

    “It is, therefore, not encouraging to observe that the frontline agencies saddled with statutory responsibilities of countering violent extremism, terrorism, illicit flow of small arms and light weapons, intelligence gathering and analysis, maintenance of national security and ensuring the provision of safe, secure and efficient air transportation for the President, Vice President and other notable government officials are negligibly funded.

    “Going by the submissions before the committee, it is heart-breaking that an agency like the National Centre for Counter-Terrorism has not got any capital release for Year 2023 and Year 2024.

    “The National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSSALW) are yet to receive a single kobo for their capital projects in 2024. The capital releases to the DSS and NIA are insufficient to motivate these agencies to work optimality in order to deliver on their critical mandates.

    Read Also: Emmanuel Egboh: A mission of endless possibilities in Nigeria’s security sector

    “I am, therefore, calling on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to please intervene, not just for an increase in the allocations to the agencies in the intelligence sector but to also direct the Minister of Finance to, as a matter of national security, prioritise the full release of all outstanding 2024 budget allocations to the intelligence agencies and sustain the practice of prompt releases to them, going forward.”

    The Permanent Secretary for Special Services in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, said the proposed budget was tailored towards addressing the evolving security challenges facing the nation.

    Also, the Director General of the DSS, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, has said the service would deploy geospatial intelligence solutions to address national security challenges.

    Ajayi, who was represented by the Faculty Member of the National Institute for Security Studies, Dr. Patrick Eneji, said this at the training on Leadership Course in Data Mining and Geospatial Intelligence in Abuja.

    The course was organised by the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in collaboration with Peace Building Development Consult (PBDC) and hosted by the Defence Space Administration (DSA).

    Ajayi said the service under his leadership had maintained an operational growth to quickly reduce threats of espionage, embezzlement, direct and location analysis of threat domains.

    He said the DSS had also enhanced the future number of intelligence capabilities to drive a comprehensive regional picture on questions, groups, or subjects of security interest.

    According to him, the Open Source Intelligence Department and other big data-driven sections of the service are also equipped with appropriate data mining tools that unravel complex trends, patterns, and correlations on security fractures.

    Ajayi said: “We live in a world driven by data. The ability to extract meaningful data for security and intelligence operation need not be over-emphasised.

    “This is because it is a necessity, especially at strategic leadership level, where decisions have far-reaching implications.

    “At this core, data mining is a process of discovering patterns, correlations, and insights with large data sets using computational techniques.

    “I make bold to state that Nigeria is witnessing a modest integration of these technological innovations in different facets and nationalities amid limiting challenges of data quality.”

  • Reps urge Tinubu to ensure full release of 2024 capital allocation for security sector

    Reps urge Tinubu to ensure full release of 2024 capital allocation for security sector

    The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Minister of Finance to ensure the full release of the 2024 capital allocation to the security and intelligence sector, emphasizing its crucial role in national security. 

    Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Ahmed Satomi (APC, Borno), appealed during the budget defense session for agencies under the Office of the National Security Adviser.

    He expressed concern over the inadequate release of funds to some intelligence agencies, noting that while the security sector received a significant allocation, the intelligence subsector remains underfunded. 

    Satomi assured that the committee would explore ways to boost funding for intelligence operations to strengthen national security efforts. 

    The budget defense session featured key agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, and the National Cybercrimes Coordination Centre, among others. 

    Satomi underscored the need for a collective approach to safeguarding citizens, stressing that the committee’s oversight covers critical security institutions that must be adequately equipped to fulfill their mandates responsibly and accountably. 

    He commended President Tinubu for prioritizing security in the proposed 2025 budget, which allocates N4.91 trillion to the Defence and Security sector.

    However, he lamented that the intelligence subsector received only N595 billion, with N274.5 billion earmarked for capital expenditure, N107.9 billion for overhead costs, and N212.5 billion for personnel expenses.

    He said: “It is imperative to note that the 2025 Budget is christened the “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity.” Securing peace presupposes that a lot of engagements with citizens will be undertaken by the government at all levels.

    “Deradicalization, disarmament, rehabilitation and reintegration programs etc will have to be carried out as a major non-kinetic initiative by the Federal government of Nigeria in collaboration with other tiers of government.

    “It is therefore not encouraging to observe that the frontline agencies saddled with statutory responsibilities of countering violent extremism, terrorism, ‘illicit flow of small arms and light weapons, intelligence gathering and analysis, maintenance of national security and ensuring the provision of safe, secure and efficient air transportation for the President, Vice President, and other notable government officials are negligibly funded.

    “Going by the submissions before the committee, it is heartbreaking that an agency like the National Centre for Counter-Terrorism has not gotten any capital release for years 2023 and year 2024.

    “The National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSSALW) are yet to receive a single kobo for their Capital projects in 2024. The Capital releases to the DSS and NIA are insufficient to motivate these agencies to work optimality to deliver on their critical mandates.

    “I am therefore calling on the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to please intervene NOT just for an increase in the allocations to the agencies in the intelligence sector but to also direct the Minister of Finance to a matter of national security, prioritize the full release of all outstanding 2024 Budget allocations to the intelligence agencies and sustain the practice of prompt releases to them going forward”.

    He said the ultimate goal of the National Assembly is to enhance national security and promote the well-being of citizens, assuring that the budget allocations will align with our national security objectives.

    Read Also: Show evidence of performance before asking for more funds, Reps tell agencies

    Permanent Secretary of Special Services in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma said the proposed budget is tailored towards addressing the evolving security challenges facing the nation, ensuring the effective coordination of security agencies, seamless intelligence gathering and information sharing, and other specialized services to enhance National Security.

    He said the budget will enhance coordination and Collaboration by strengthening partnerships within security agencies to foster a more cohesive and responsive security architecture; enhance infrastructural development by improving existing operational facilities and equipment to support efficient service delivery and ensure capacity building and manpower development by upgrading the skills and expertise of personnel to address emerging security challenges.

    He said: “It is worth noting that the envelop system of budgeting provides a lot of constraint in terms of resource allocation to the community. However, despite this challenge, the agencies try to strike a balance between their operational needs and the government’s fiscal constraints”.

    He assured of the commitment of the Intelligence Community to transparency, accountability, and effective resource management by ensuring that the budgetary provisions align with the government’s overall security objectives

  • Reps kick as agencies fail to honour parliamentary invitation

    Reps kick as agencies fail to honour parliamentary invitation

    The House of Representatives Committe on Customs and Excise on Monday frowned at the refusal of heads of government agencies to respond to the invitation of the House to appear before an investigative hearing on the operations of the Nigeria Customs Service and the management of the nation’s borders.

    The committee, alongside the House Committee on Interior had invited the Minister of Interior, Comptroller General of Customs, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service and other stakeholders to the investigative hearing on the mordernisation of the Nigeria Customs Service.

    The House, at two sittings had ordered the committees to investigate the modernisation project of the Nigerian Customs Service (e-customs) concession to the Trade Mordeniation Project (TMP) and the role of Webb Fontaine in the E-Customs framework as well as the need to employ modern technology to secure Nigeria’s borders and address the challenges posed by illegal migration and border management.

    However, while the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo was said to be out of the country and could not attend the session with the lawmakers, no reason was given for the absence of the Customs boss and his Immigration counterpart.

    A member of the Committee, Olumide Osoba (APC, Ogun) frowned at the absence of the Chief Executives saying section 88 of the constitution gives the parliament the power to invite any individual to appear before it to offer explanation, adding that in such instance, only the Chief Executives of the agencies are to appear before the parliament.

    As a result of the absence, Osoba said the investigative hearing cannot be held as those representing the Chief Executives in not in a position to provide the answers being sought by the parliament.

    Another member of the Committee on Customs, Awaji-Inombek Abiante (PDP, Rivers) said the refusal of the Head of agencies was an afront on the parliament, adding that if they refuse to show on the next adjourned date, the Committee and the parliament should invoke its powers and recommend their removal from office.

    According to Abiante, their refusal to honour parliamentary invitation would mean that they are either tired of the job or incompetent to carry out their assigned duties.

    In his ruling, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Leke Abejide (ADC, Kogi) said while the investigative hearing on the customs mordenisation has to do with improving government revenue, the second one deals with the security of the nation.

    Read Also: Reps panel worried over low implementation of 2024 budget

    Abejide said despite the busy schedule of the lawmakers, they made out time to carry out the national assignment, pointing out that the investigative hearing would have to be shifted to another day, preferably after the passage of the national budget and at a time when the Chief Executives will be available to answer questions from members.

    The Committee is expected to investigate the concession of the operations of the customs to Trade Modernisation Project  and why Webb Fontaine that has managed the collection process are still the ones operating the system.

    They are also expected to find out the due diligent carried out in the selection of Trade Modernisation Project to take over the e-customs processes from Webb Fontaine and what TMP has done with the concession as well as the number of modern scanners they have introduced to make clearing of goods easier and faster.

  • Reps fail to commence 2025 budget defence

    Reps fail to commence 2025 budget defence

    Defence of the 2025 budget estimates by Ministries, Departments and Agencies(MDAs) government before the various House Committees failed to begin on Tuesday as expected. 

    As of about 5.00pm on Tuesday, there was no sign of any activity at the various committee rooms in the House where the budget defence is expected to take place. 

    A tour of all committee rooms showed an empty House even as the National Assembly complex was a complete shadow of its usual self. 

    It was not clear at the time of filing this report why the budget defence failed to start but it may not be unconnected with the absence of most members of the House who may still be enjoying the Christmas and new year break. 

    The House is expected to resume plenary on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.

    Read Also: House of Reps: The year in retrospect

    There are however indications that the various MDAs may have to appear before joint Committees of the Senate and House for their budget defence in view of short time available to the lawmakers. 

    Bichi had assured that the lawmakers scrutinise the budget very well in the national interest. 

    However, Bichi could not be reached to speak on why the defence did not start as planned, while his Deputy, Igarewey Enwo did not respond to calls. 

    A Committee Chairman who refused to be quoted said consultations were ongoing, adding that the Lawmakers cut short their Christmas break because of the budget defence. 

  • Reps pledge rigorous scrutiny of 2025 appropriation bill

    Reps pledge rigorous scrutiny of 2025 appropriation bill

    Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese (APC, Benue), has assured Nigerians that the House will adopt stringent measures in reviewing the 2025 Appropriation Bill to ensure it advances the nation’s interests.

    Speaking on Tuesday, Agbese emphasized that the parliament is committed to thoroughly examining the budget proposal submitted by President Bola Tinubu.

    Meanwhile, on Monday, January 6, 2025, the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Abubakar Bichi, met with other committee chairmen ahead of the budget defense sessions with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) scheduled to begin Tuesday.

    Bichi reiterated that while the executive is responsible for proposing the budget, the National Assembly, as an independent arm of government, will thoroughly scrutinize the estimates before passage.

    “Like we did in 2024, we will be guided by the needs of the nation in arriving at a final estimate that we will pass and transmit to the President for his assent.”

    Agbese emphasizing the readiness of the House to work on the Appropriation Bill, day and night to ensure the timely passage of the  budget.  

    “Last year, we cut short our holiday to work on the 2024 budget. This is already playing out again as we have commenced the defense of the 2025 budget estimates starting with the Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

    “The 10th House led by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas is committed to the welfare of Nigerians. As a result, it is prepared to work relentlessly on the proposal to ensure that the budget work for the nation.

    “As a House, we have no other interest apart from our collective national interest. All we are interested in is the good of our country and fellow Nigerians. So, as we embark on this important exercise, we will look at critical sectors of the economy capable of stimulating economic growth and act accordingly.

    “Of course, you know that the security of our beloved country has been a top issue for years. Health, education, job creation, education and empowerment of the youth and women are areas we will be looking at for as we begin our job on the 2025 budget proposal.”

    According “The leadership through the Committee has set a very tedious template on what MDAs must meet before approve any estimate. 

    “MDAs must show how much they have complied with due process of law in implementing the previous budget, convince lawmakers about their understanding of the President’s vision in the areas of responsibility and equally be able to justify that they have what it takes to spend Nigerian tax payers’ money.

    “Mr Speaker is very particular about accountability and due process. 

    “Agencies which fail to meet our parameters as a parliament will have no allocation for capital projects in 2025. This is exactly why we are voted by Nigerians,” he added.

    Meanwhile, defence of the budget estimates by Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government before the various House Committees failed to begin in the House of Representatives on Tuesday as expected. 

    Read Also: House of Reps: The year in retrospect

    As at about 5.00pm on Tuesday, there was. No sign of any activity at the various committee rooms in the House where the budget defence is expected to take place. 

    It was not clear at the time of this report why the budget defence failed to start, but it may not be unconnected with the absence of most members of the House who may still be enjoying the Christmas and new year break. 

    The House is expected to resume plenary on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.

    There are however indications that the various MDAs may have to appear before joint Committees of the Senate and House for their budget defence in view of short time available to the lawmakers. 

    Bichi had assured that the lawmakers scrutinise the budget very well in the national interest.

  • 2025 appropriation bill scales second reading in Reps

    2025 appropriation bill scales second reading in Reps

    The House of Representatives on Thursday passed for second reading the 2025 appropriation bill of N49.7 trillion presented to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday.

    Members took turn to commend the President for the budget, describing it as ambitious, while some warned that the parameters for the budget were not realistic, calling for proper implementation and monitoring.

    Leading the debate on the bill, House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere said President Tinubu admitted during the budget presentation that Nigerians were going through rough times, but added that for once, Nigerians are seeing a government that is ready to refocus the Nigerian economy.

    He said the budget has made adequate provision for the education sector as well as security, health and infrastructure, adding that with the determination of the government, the country will soon begin to see foreign investments in the country.

    Ihonvbere applauded the determination of the government to reduce inflation to 15 percent in 2015, saying the target was realizable if all Nigerians contribute their quota, pointing out the President has demonstrated serious courage and leadership in moving the nation forward.

    Former Deputy Speaker of the House, Ahmed Idris Wase wants proper implementation and monitoring of the security budget, adding that doing so can put an end to the security challenges in the country.

    He said: “We should follow up the utilization of the security budget to ensure value for money”, and called for the speedy passage of the budget to ensure that what is allocated to the various constituencies are implemented.

    He decried the challenge in the health sector especially in the area of funding and infrastructure.

    But Jeremiah Umoru questioned the criteria used in allocating money to the South West Development Commission whose board has not been constituted, while the North Central and South South Development Commission whose establishment bills are currently with the President are left out.

    Wale Hammed commended the President for his infrastructural drive as shown in the Lagos to Calabar and Sokoto to L:agos road projects, saying “in 1985 when I went to Sokoto to study, we were told that there will be a road from Sokoto to Lagos. I spent seven years there and the road was not constructed. It has remained like that over the years. Now, the road is being constructed.”

    He also applauded the government for paying attention to capital budget, which he said is almost at par with the recurrent expenditure in the budget.

    Also contributing, Babajimi Benson said with adequate security in the country, Nigeria will be able to unlock its potentials, adding that the N4.9 trillion budgeted for the security sector does not include the potentials of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.

    He said: “With the reforms in DICON, a lot of countries are interested in investing there and very soon, Nigeria will become a producer of military hardwares.”

    But minority leader of the House, Kingsley Chinda said the budget was overtly over ambitious inspite of the President’s optimism about the budget, adding that if well implemented, the budget portend something good for the Nigerians.

    Chinda said however that Nigerians must not lose site of the fact that the budget is merely a projection, adding that while considering whether the projections are realizable, the indices on ground must be considered.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Senate passes N49.7trn 2025 appropriation bill for second reading

    He said: “Our indices are not completely correct. So, it is not yet uhuru. The plan to reduce inflation from about 35 percent to 15 percent is over ambitious and I don’t see how we can achieve that. If we are able to achieve security in 2025, will that improve food security in 2025. I don’t think so. We can be looking at 2026 for food security.

    “The budget for security will not take us to the promise land. In terms of revenue generation, the revenue sources remained the same. The concern is that we let us not over tax the people again. We should be talking about expanding the revenue sources, tighten the tax net.

    “The issue of revenue target is key, while the amount for deficit appear to be too high. With this figure, I don’t see how Nigerians will not go to bed hungry in 2025. How do we achieve an exchange rate of N1,500 when we have market forces dictating the exchange. What are the things on ground that will crash the exchange rate?

    Chinda said although the budget appear beautify, there is much more to be done to ensure that the target is achieved, while warning that environmental sustainability must be properly taken care in the budget.

    Some members also called for increased allocation to the zonal development commissions to actualize the intention for which they were established.