The Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, Rep. Philip Agbese, has disclosed that the 2024 supplementary budget of N6.2 trillion will be meticulously examined.
In an interview with journalists in Abuja, Agbese said the parliament is committed to conducting a comprehensive and meticulous examination of the budget,
scrutinising every bit of the estimate proposal to ensure that each kobo is well utilized.
According to him, the supplementary budget aims to allocate funds for vital sectors such as education, healthcare, and the general well-being of Nigerian citizens, among other critical infrastructure projects.
He said: “The 2024 supplementary budget, totaling ₦6.2tn, aims to fund critical infrastructure projects, education, healthcare access, and public welfare initiatives.
“The budget is divided into two main components: ₦3.2tn for renewed hope infrastructure projects and other critical infrastructure projects across the country, and ₦3tn to meet further recurrent expenditure requirements necessary for the proper operation of the Federal Government.
“We will scrutinise 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.”
Agbese, the representative of Ado/Ogbadigbo/Okokwu Federal Constituency in Benue State, guaranteed that the legislature will undertake a collaborative approach, engaging with stakeholders, holding public hearings, and meticulously examining the executive proposal to guarantee its alignment with the welfare and interests of the Nigerian people.
He said: “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 result will be a budget that benefits all Nigerians.
“We have a good working relationship with the Senate, and we are confident that we can work together to pass the supplementary budget promptly.
“We will work together to ensure that the budget is passed with the necessary scrutiny and oversight.”
He promised that the House will take its time and ensure that the supplementary budget passes with the necessary scrutiny and legislative input.
The lawmaker praised the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Rep. Abubakar Bichi, for transforming the country’s budgetary process.
He also commended Bichi’s commitment to transparency and accountability, which has led to diligent scrutiny of the budget proposal by the committee.
He said: “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.”