Reps to scrutinise N6.2tn supplementary budget – Spokesman

The N6.2tn 2024 supplementary budget transmitted to the National Assembly on Wednesday by President Bola Tinubu is targeted at critical infrastructure including education, healthcare, and the welfare of Nigerians among others, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said.

Agbese, who stated this in an interview with journalists in Abuja on Friday, also pledged the readiness of the parliament to subject the supplementary budget to a thorough and rigorous review.

He said, “The 2024 supplementary budget, totalling ₦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, who represents Ado/Ogbadigbo/Okokwu Federal Constituency of Benue State, assured that the legislative body will engage with stakeholders, conduct public hearings, and scrutinise the executive 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 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 added.

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 legislative inputs.

The lawmaker acknowledged the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Abubakar Bichi, for changing the dynamics in the country’s budgetary process, saying, “His commitment to transparency and accountability has been exemplary, and his leadership has ensured that the committee is working diligently to scrutinise the budget proposal.

“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.”