House of Representatives Pushes for Increased Funding of Key Agencies

The House of Representatives is pushing for significant increases in the funding of key government agencies, as discussions over the N49.70 trillion 2025 budget proposal continue. Deputy Spokesman Mr. Philip Agbese revealed on Monday that several crucial agencies, vital to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth, are set to receive more substantial financial support.

As the National Assembly prepares to pass the 2025 budget, Agbese emphasized that the House, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is committed to playing a pivotal role in shaping a prosperous future for the country. While many Nigerians currently face economic hardships, Agbese encouraged citizens to remain hopeful, assuring them that better days are on the horizon.

Budget Showdown: Lawmakers Demand Better Funding for National Agencies

Agbese outlined the agencies the House believes should see increased funding, including the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). He noted that these organizations play essential roles in the nation’s development, and without proper funding, their ability to operate effectively would be compromised.

“NIMC, for instance, has become a cornerstone of national security and socio-economic development,” Agbese said. “They need resources to train staff and acquire the latest technology to build a national data bank that is indispensable for fighting terrorism and managing national security.”

Calls for Reform: House of Reps Advocates for Improved Budget for NYSC, NIMC, and NDA

Addressing the NYSC, Agbese made it clear that the scheme, which provides manpower to both public and private sectors, requires reform and better funding. The lawmaker pointed out that while the NYSC has significantly contributed to the country’s development, its current financial state is inadequate. He hinted that the exact funding figures are still being worked out, but the goal is to ensure corps members receive the support they need during their service years.

In a similar vein, Agbese emphasized the need for increased investment in the NDA, a crucial institution tasked with building the capacity of Nigeria’s military. As terrorism continues to evolve, he argued, the NDA must be better equipped to prepare the country’s defense forces to counter emerging threats effectively.

2025 Budget: Reps Seek Bigger Allocations for Critical Sectors Amid Growing Challenges

Agbese also touched on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has been allocated a modest N66.88 billion for capital expenditure and N286.88 billion for recurrent costs in the 2025 budget proposal. He highlighted that the ministry’s actual needs far exceed these allocations, with a requested N1.5 trillion outlined in a recent needs assessment. The ministry’s budget has now been pushed for review, with lawmakers urging a more realistic allocation, considering Nigeria’s obligations to international organizations and the high costs of foreign service operations.

Similarly, Agbese praised the reforms led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, and expressed support for further funding of the aviation sector, noting the industry’s significant impact on national revenue and the country’s global image.

As discussions continue, Agbese reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s budgetary allocations to key sectors, aiming to enhance national development and improve citizens’ lives. He urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, assuring them that both the government and the National Assembly are working hard to address the nation’s pressing challenges.