We’ll scrutinise Tinubu’s request to increase 2024 budget by N6.2trn — Reps

The Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Phillip Agbese on Friday assured Nigerians that the House will scrutinise Tinubu’s request to increase the 2024 budget by N6.2 trillion for legislative approval.

Agbese who gave the assurance during an interview in Abuja, said the House is committed to ensuring that the request serves the best interests of Nigerians.

According to him, the N6.2 trillion was initiated to fund critical infrastructure projects, education, healthcare access, and public welfare initiatives.

He explained that the proposed budget is divided into two main components: N3.2 trillion for Renewed Hope infrastructure projects and other critical infrastructure projects across the country, and ₦3 trillion to meet further recurrent expenditure requirements necessary for the proper operation of the Federal Government.

“We will scrutinize every bit of the budget proposal to ensure that ultimately each kobo is well utilized and that the budget is in the best interest of our constituents.

“We owe it to them to ensure that their resources are utilised efficiently,” he noted.

The President’s request was pursuant to Section 58(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Hon. Agbese further assured that the House through relevant standing committees will engage with stakeholders, conduct public hearings, and scrutinise the bill to ensure that it serves the best interests of Nigerians.

“We will not compromise on our commitment to transparency and accountability. We will take the time to get it right, and we are confident that the end result will be a budget that benefits all Nigerians,” he said.

He further explained that the House will work closely with the Senate to ensure a swift passage of the bill.

“We have a good working relationship with the Senate, and we are confident that we can work together to pass the supplementary budget in a timely manner.

“We will work together to ensure that the budget is passed with the necessary scrutiny and oversight,” he said.

When asked about the specific areas of focus in the supplementary budget, Agbese said: “We are looking at critical infrastructure projects that will impact the lives of Nigerians, such as roads, bridges, and healthcare facilities.

“We are also looking at education and public welfare initiatives that will benefit our constituents. We want to ensure that the budget is inclusive and benefits all Nigerians, regardless of their location or socio-economic status.”

He assured that the House will not rush the process, but will take the time necessary to ensure that the supplementary budget is passed with the necessary scrutiny and oversight.

Agbese applauded the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Abubakar Bichi, for changing the dynamics in the country’s budgetary process.

“His commitment to transparency and accountability has been exemplary, and his leadership has ensured that the committee is working diligently to scrutinize the budget proposal.

“Rt. Hon. Bichi’s vast experience in budgetary matters has been invaluable to the committee, and his dedication to ensuring that the budget serves the best interests of Nigerians is commendable. We appreciate his efforts and look forward to working with him to ensure a thorough and transparent review process,” he added.

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