Senator Ali Ndume has called on President Tinubu to withdraw the ambassadorial nomination list before the Senate, alleging that the distribution violates the federal character principle. He claims some states have multiple nominees while others have none, warning that the imbalance could deepen mistrust and inflame regional grievances. The senator appeals for a re-submitted list that reflects broader geographic and state-level inclusiveness. (Sources: Daily Trust and Tribune, Dec 6, 2025.)
Tag: National Assembly
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Akpabio dares Natasha over sexual harassment suit
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has challenged Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to present evidence of her sexual harassment allegations in court. Punch reports that Akpabio’s media office argues the defamation suit was filed about three months earlier, countering claims that it was newly initiated. The statement characterises the allegations as unproven and accuses the Kogi Central senator of misleading the public by framing the legal action as a sudden response. The dispute adds another layer to the intensifying political and reputational battle playing out between both figures. Source: Punch, December 7, 2025.
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EDITORIAL : Budget integrity is NOT budget padding.
A recent statement by Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, published under the title “The Role of Legislature in Shaping a Holistic Budget for Nigeria,” has reignited public debate over the controversial practice of legislative budget insertions—commonly referred to as “budget padding.”
In his article, the Senator defends the legislature’s role in adjusting the federal budget, dismissing terms like “padding,” “insertions,” and “constituency projects” as misrepresentations of legitimate legislative contributions to the budgetary process.
At Echotitbits.com, we fully acknowledge the constitutional role of the National Assembly in reviewing and approving the national budget. However, we must respectfully challenge the narrative that legislative insertions are harmless or beneficial acts of “democracy in action.” On the contrary, such adjustments—when carried out outside the framework of national planning—continue to undermine Nigeria’s development agenda, weaken fiscal discipline, and compromise the integrity of public finance.
The Purpose of the Envelope
Nigeria operates a Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), an internationally recognized tool designed to align national spending with realistic revenue projections, development priorities, and sustainable debt levels.
Within this framework, each sector—education, health, roads, power—is assigned a budget “envelope” based on available funds and national strategic plans. These envelopes are not arbitrary figures. They are carefully calculated to ensure that the nation’s most pressing needs are funded first and that public spending remains sustainable.
When the legislature inserts hundreds of small, fragmented projects into the budget without reference to the MTEF, these envelopes are breached. Ministries are then forced to spread their limited resources across too many projects—many of which are duplicative, unviable, or politically motivated.
This is not merely a budgeting problem. It is a national development crisis.
A Real-World Example
Consider a real scenario:
• Let’s assume under the MTEF, ₦2 trillion is allocated to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing.
• National Planning identifies critical projects, including:
• The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway
• The Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Road
• However, during the budget process, the National Assembly inserts hundreds of new road projects, each valued between ₦50 million and ₦200 million, scattered across various constituencies nationwide.
The result?
• Funding for the major highways—projects vital for national connectivity and economic growth—is slashed.
• Many of the smaller inserted roads are abandoned or remain incomplete due to inadequate funding and planning.
• The national transport strategy suffers, and Nigeria’s development goals are delayed.
This is a clear example of how legislative insertions can derail national priorities, waste resources, and leave citizens stranded with half-completed projects.
Insertions vs. National Priorities
Legislative insertions are often justified under the banner of promoting equity or delivering development to neglected areas. While this may sound noble in theory, it frequently leads to waste and inefficiency in practice. Projects inserted late into the budget process are rarely subjected to rigorous planning. They often lack feasibility studies, are poorly costed, and fail to align with sectoral strategies.
We have witnessed the consequences firsthand: unfinished health centres, abandoned rural roads, ghost ICT hubs, and duplicated training workshops. Meanwhile, large-scale national infrastructure—projects with the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty—remains underfunded or delayed.
This is not equity. It is inefficiency.
Who Really Benefits?
The Senator is correct in stating that lawmakers do not execute projects directly; instead, implementation falls to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). However, this misses the critical issue. The core concern is how these projects enter the budget in the first place—and whose interests they ultimately serve.
Many inserted projects are awarded to politically connected contractors with little or no accountability to the communities they are meant to benefit. The result is an erosion of public trust in both the budget process and governance as a whole.
Strengthening the Budget Process
A credible budget process demands transparency, fiscal discipline, and a clear connection to national priorities. To achieve this:
1. All budget insertions must be made public, including details of their origin and justification.
2. Constituency needs should be integrated into national planning frameworks through structured dialogue—not through last-minute lobbying.
3. Sectoral envelopes must be respected, not breached.
4. The National Assembly should focus on strong oversight, ensuring that public funds deliver value for money rather than becoming vehicles for political patronage.
This is how democracy should function—not through distortions of the budget, but through accountability and measurable results.
Conclusion
The term “budget padding” is not a media invention. It reflects a budgeting culture that too often prioritizes political interests over Nigeria’s broader development goals. Rebranding insertions as “legislative adjustments” does not erase the very real consequences they have had on project execution, fiscal stability, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
At Echotitbits.com, we believe that budget integrity is the cornerstone of responsible governance. If democracy is truly about the people, then our budget must reflect their genuine needs—not merely the influence of political actors.
Echotitbits.com Editorial Board
July 7, 2025
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Nigeria National Assembly Passes N13.5trn 2021 Budget, N500bn Higher than Initial Proposal
The Senate on Monday passed the 2021 Appropriation Bill of N13.5 trillion.
This followed the adoption of the report of Senate Committee on Appropriations at plenary.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that President Muhammadu Buhari had on Oct. 8, presented the 2021 budget of N13.08 trillion to the joint session of the National Assembly for approval.
Similarly, the House of Representatives also passed the 2021 budget of N13.5 trillion for the Year 2021 has been passed by Nigeria’s National Assembly on Monday ahead of the Christmas and New Year break.
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The passing of the budget, which followed consideration of a report by the committee on appropriation is N500bn higher than the N13.08 Trillion earlier presented before the joint session of the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Details of the budget include about N6 Trillion allocated for recurrent expenditure, N4.2 trillion for Capital expenditure and N3.32 Trillion for Debt servicing.
READ ALSO:
Presenting the report on the floor of the house, Chairman of the Committee on appropriation, Alhaji Aliyu Betera, while presenting the committee’s report on the floor of the House confirmed that sectors with highest allocation in the 2021 Appropriation Bill includes Defence with about N840bn (eight hundred and forty Billion naira); education with over N545bn (five hundred and forty five Billion naira), Police Affairs about N438bn (four hundred and thirty eight Billion naira) while health sector received over N380 (three hundred and eighty Billion naira.)
The nation’s 2021 budget estimate is based on a $40 per barrel assumption, with crude oil production at 1.86million barrel per day.
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Debate Relevance of N’Assembly to Nigerians, not ‘Jumbo Pay’ – Senate President
President of the Nigerian Senate, Ahmad Lawan has challenged those who are critical of the National Assembly to a debate on the relevance of the Legislature to Nigerians rather than criticising the funding of the Assembly.
Lawan threw up the challenge in Abuja on Friday while declaring open a retreat for top management staff of the National Assembly and National Assembly Service Commission.
“What does the National Assembly mean to Nigerians what does the legislature mean to Nigerians.
“We need to understand what the National Assembly or what the Legislature is to Nigerians,” Lawan said.
According to a statement issued by the
Special Adviser on Media
to President of the Senate, Ola Awoniyi, Lawan called for a proper debate on what the functions of the National Assembly and Indeed the Legislature should be rather than talking about the Jumbo pay.“Where is the Jumbo pay? We should be looking for value for money. Without this National Assembly or the Legislature across the country, what we have is no democracy anymore. So the value of the National Assembly or the Legislature to Nigeria is democracy.
“We always debate on Jumbo pay instead of what should be the functions and hold us responsible for what we are able to do and for what we are not able to do.
“Ask for what you think we should be doing rather than saying ‘close the Senate’ or ‘close the National Assembly.’ Do you understand the implication of this.
“You close the Senate, for example, not because I’m in the Senate but the Senate is a leveller. Senate is a leveller because in the House of Representatives, population is the major consideration and that’s why some States will have five or six members of the House and others will have more than 20.
“So if you say ‘close the Senate,’ you can be sure that there will be a day when people will cry foul of the tyranny of the majority.
“But you come to the Senate, what Kano state produces in the Senate is what Bayelsa produces – three Senators in Kano and you have three Senators from Bayelsa.
“That gives everyone the advantage and the opportunity to be represented fully and properly and equally in the Senate. So that stabilises the system.
“That tells you that that representation in the Senate that provides equality of states is to work to ensure that every part of this country is fully represented and protected.”
The Senate President said the National Assembly is allocated less than one percent of the National Budget yearly.
“So where is the remaining 99 percent. Yet instead of trying to see how the 125 billion to 128 billion naira will be utilised by the National Assembly system, what will be the output from the National Assembly, how useful are the output to the Nigerian public, we will always argue ‘cut the funding to the National Assembly.’ ‘Its bogus.’
“I’m not here to defend the National Assembly but I’m here to encourage a debate on what the National Assembly means to us as a country or what our legislature means to us as a country and as a people.
“If you don’t like the set of members in the Ninth National Assembly, change all of us in 2023. Get better people but help support the system to function because that is your protection,” Lawan said.
By Tobiloba Kolawole
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Full text Of President Buhari’s 2021 budget Presentation To The National Assembly
2021 BUDGET SPEECH:
Budget of Economic Recovery and Resilience
Delivered By:
His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
At the Joint Session of the National Assembly, AbujaThursday, 8th October 2020
PROTOCOLS
1. It is with pleasure that I present the 2021 Federal Budget Proposals to this Joint Session of the National Assembly.
2. Distinguished and Honourable Leaders, and Members of the National Assembly, at this juncture, I wish to commend your tremendous efforts in approving the revision of the 2020 – 2022 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper, and passage of the 2020 Appropriation (Repeal and Amendment) Act, in response to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
3. Today marks an important occasion in our quest to accord the federal budget process the seriousness it deserves. In line with our commitment, we have worked extra hard to ensure early submission of the 2021 –2023 Medium-term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper, as well as the 2021 Appropriation Bill. It is my sincere hope that the National Assembly will pass this Bill into law early enough to enable implementation by 1st January 2021, given the collaborative manner in which the budget was prepared.
4. In the course of this address, I will present the highlights of our budget proposals for the next fiscal year. The Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning will, later, provide the full details of these proposals.
Recent Developments
1. The 2021 Budget was prepared amidst a challenging global and domestic environment due to the persistent headwinds from the Coronavirus Pandemic. The resulting global economic recession, low oil prices and heightened global economic uncertainty have had important implications for our economy.2. The Nigerian economy is currently facing serious challenges, with the macroeconomic environment being significantly disrupted by the Coronavirus Pandemic. Real Gross Domestic Product (‘GDP’) growth declined by 6.1 percent in the second quarter of 2020. This ended the 3-year trend of positive, but modest, real GDP growth recorded since the second quarter of 2017. I am glad to note that, through our collective efforts, our economy performed relatively better than that of many other developed and emerging economies.
3. GDP growth is projected to be negative in the third quarter of this year. As such, our economy may lapse into the second recession in four years, with significant adverse consequences. However, we are working assiduously to ensure a rapid recovery in 2021. We remain committed to implementing programmes to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over the next 10 years.
4. As skills’ deficits limit employment opportunities in the formal economy, various skills’ development programmes are being implemented simultaneously to address this problem frontally. For instance, the Government is implementing the Special Public Works programme to provide employment opportunities to 774,000 youths across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria. We have also recently introduced the N75 billion Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, of which N25 billion have been provided in 2021 Budget.
5. We thank all Nigerians, for your perseverance and continued support during these difficult times. We remain unwavering in our commitment to actualize our vision of a bright future for everyone.
President Muhammadu Buhari presents a ₦13.08 trillion budget before a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, Oct 8, 2020, in Abuja. Performance of the 2020 Budget
6. Distinguished and Honourable Members of the National Assembly, you will recall that the 2020 ‘Budget of Sustaining Growth and Job Creation’ was amended in response to recent fiscal pressures. I am glad to report that these efforts enabled us to effectively respond to the public health challenge of Coronavirus outbreak and moderate economic impact.7. Pursuant to our revised assumptions, the amended 2020 Budget was based on a benchmark oil price of 28 US Dollars per barrel; oil production of 1.80 million barrels per day; and exchange rate of N360 to the US Dollar.
8. Based on these budget parameters, aggregate revenue of N5.84 trillion was projected to fund N10.81 trillion in expenditure. The projected deficit of N4.98 trillion, or 3.57 percent of GDP, is expected to be financed mainly by borrowing.
9. In 2020, average daily oil production was 1.88 mbpd up to June, as against the revised estimate of 1.80 mbpd for the entire year. However, the market price of Bonny Light crude averaged 40.79 US Dollars per barrel, significantly higher than the revised benchmark price of 28 US Dollars.
10. As at July 2020, the Federal Government’s actual revenue available for the budget was N2.10 trillion. This revenue performance was only 68 percent of our pro-rated target in the revised 2020 budget. At N992.45 billion, oil revenue performed well above our budget target, by 168 percent. Non-oil tax revenues totalled N692.83 billion, which was 73 percent of the revised target.
11. To improve independent revenue performance, I have directed that the cost profiles of Government Owned Enterprises (‘GOEs’) should be scrutinized and limits imposed on their cost-to-revenue ratios. Supervising Ministers have also been directed to ensure closer monitoring of the revenue generating activities and expenditures of the Government Owned Enterprises.
12. On the expenditure side, as at end of July 2020, a total of N5.37 trillion had been spent as against the pro-rated expenditure of N5.82 trillion. Accordingly, the deficit was N3.27 trillion. This represents 66 percent of the revised budgeted deficit for the full year.
13. Despite these challenges, we met our debt service obligations. We are also up to date on the payment of statutory transfers and staff salaries, while overhead costs have been significantly covered.
14. For the first time in recent years, we commenced the implementation of this year’s capital budget in the first quarter. As at 15th September 2020 a total of about N1.2 trillion had been released for capital projects. Every Federal MDA has received at least 50 percent of its 2020 capital expenditure budget, in line with my earlier directives.
15. Let me emphasise that revenue generation remains our major challenge. Nevertheless, Government is determined to tackle the persisting problems with domestic resource mobilization, as there is a limit to deficit financing through borrowing. The time has come for us to maintain a healthy balance between meeting our growing expenditure commitments and our long-term public financial health.
Key Achievements in the 2020 Fiscal Year
34. Over the last year, this Administration has implemented several priority projects. I am happy to report that much progress has been made on several fronts and our Government has delivered on key policies, programmes and projects in these priority areas.16. In agriculture, we have recorded appreciable success in rice and other crops mainly through the Anchor Borrowers Programme and the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative, anchored by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, respectively. We are also accelerating the construction of 337 rural roads around key agricultural corridors to enhance access to market and reduce post-harvest losses. These efforts have reduced the adverse impact of Coronavirus on our food availability, prices and security.
17. We have made progress on the railway projects connecting different parts of the country. The Lagos-Ibadan Line will soon be operational. The Abuja-Kaduna Line is running efficiently. The Itakpe-Ajaokuta Line was finally completed after over 30 years since it was initiated and commissioned in September 2020.
18. Arrangements are underway to complete the Ibadan-Kano Line. Also, work will soon commence on the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri Line and Calabar-Lagos Coastal Line, which will connect the Southern and Eastern States to the North, and the South-South as well as South-East to the North, and South-West, respectively.
19. The Second Niger Bridge is at about 46 percent completion. We hope to commission the project before the end of our tenure in 2023. We have awarded several contracts to rehabilitate, reconstruct and construct major arterial roads, in order to reduce the hardship to commuters and increase economic activity.
20. To bridge the infrastructure deficit, we are also implementing innovative financing strategies to pull-in private sector investment. The Infrastructure Company, which I recently approved, will become a world-class infrastructure development vehicle, wholly focused on making critical infrastructural investments in Nigeria. This Infrastructure Company will raise funding from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, the Africa Finance Corporation, pension funds as well as local and foreign private sector development financiers.
21. Under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, we are undertaking the construction and rehabilitation of over 780km of roads and bridges, nationwide, to be financed by the grant of tax credits to investing business. Ongoing projects under this scheme include:
a. Construction and Rehabilitation of Lokoja-Obajana-Kabba-Ilorin Road Section II (Obajana-Kabba) in Kogi and Kwara States;
b. Construction of Apapa-Oworonshoki-Ojota Expressway in Lagos State; and
c. Construction of Bodo-Bonny road with a Bridge across the Opobo Channel in Rivers State.
22. To enhance good governance, we strengthened our anti-corruption agencies to ensure they work independently and jointly, while respecting the rule of law. We have also worked to address emergent cases of insecurity and insurgency, nationwide, with innovative approaches. Our security operations in the Niger Delta, North Central and North West are yielding desired results. We are determined to get rid of bandits, kidnappers and criminal behaviour from our midst.
Theme & Priorities of the 2021 Budget
23. Distinguished Senators; Honourable Members; let me now turn to the 2021 Appropriation Bill, which is designed to further deliver on the goals of our Economic Sustainability Plan. This Plan provides a clear road map for our post- Coronavirus economic recovery as a transitional plan to take us from the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (2017 – 2020) to the successor Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021 – 2025).24. In view of the many challenges confronting us, we must accelerate our economic recovery process, promote social inclusion and strengthen the resilience of the economy. The 2021 Appropriation has, therefore, been themed the ‘Budget of Economic Recovery and Resilience’. It is expected to accelerate the pace of our economic recovery, promote economic diversification, enhance competitiveness and ensure social inclusion.
Parameters & Fiscal Assumptions Underpinning the 2021 Appropriation
25. Distinguished Members of the National Assembly, the 2021 – 2023 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper set out the parameters for the 2021 Budget, which include:
a. Benchmark oil price of 40 US Dollars per barrel;
b. Daily oil production estimate of 1.86 million barrels (inclusive of Condensates of 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day);
c. Exchange rate of N379 per US Dollar; and
d. GDP growth projected at 3.0 percent and inflation closing at 11.95 percent.
Finance Bill 2020
26. Distinguished and Honourable Members; I have directed the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning to finalise the Finance Bill 2020, which will be forwarded for your kind consideration and passage into law, shortly after today’s 2021 Budget presentation. The Finance Bill is to support the realization of our 2021 revenue projections, adopt appropriate counter-cyclical fiscal policies and enhance the efficiency of fiscal incentives.Tax Expenditure Statement
27. In compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007, we will prepare and publish, a Tax Expenditures Statement for 2019. The 2019 Statement will be the first of these annual Statements, setting out the estimated cost of tax exemptions, incentives and rebates provided under Nigeria’s revenue and other laws. The 2019 Statement is expected to contribute to public discussion on the use of our tax policies and system to achieve socio-economic development.Federal Government Revenue Estimates
28. Based on the foregoing fiscal assumptions and parameters, total federally distributable revenue is estimated at N8.433 trillion in 2021. Total revenue available to fund the 2021 Federal Budget is estimated at N7.886 trillion. This includes Grants and Aid of N354.85 billion as well as the revenues of 60 Government-Owned Enterprises.29. Oil revenue is projected at N2.01 trillion. Non-oil revenue is estimated at N1.49 trillion. As you will observe, the format of the 2021 Appropriation Bill has been modified to include budgeted revenues, no matter how small, for each MDA, to focus on internal revenue generation. Accordingly, I implore you to pay as much attention to the revenue side as you do to the expenditure side.
Planned 2021 Expenditure
30. An aggregate expenditure of N13.08 trillion is proposed for the Federal Government in 2021. This includes N1.35 trillion spending by Government-Owned Enterprises and Grants and Aid funded expenditures of N354.85 billion. For 2021, the proposed N13.08 trillion expenditure comprises:a. Non-debt Recurrent Costs of N5.65 trillion;
b. Personnel Costs of N3.76 trillion;
c. Pensions, Gratuities and Retirees’ Benefits of N501.19 billion;d. Overheads of N625.50 billion;
e. Debt Service of N3.124 trillion;
f. Statutory Transfers of N484.49 billion; and
g. Sinking Fund of N220 billion (to retire certain maturing bonds).Fiscal Balance
1. The 2021 Budget deficit (inclusive of Government Owned Enterprises and project-tied loans), is projected at N5.20 trillion. This represents 3.64 percent of estimated GDP, slightly above the 3 percent threshold set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007. It is, however, to be noted that we still face the existential challenge of Coronavirus Pandemic and its aftermath; I believe that this provides a justification to exceed the threshold as provided for by this law.31. The deficit will be financed mainly by new borrowings totalling N4.28 trillion, N205.15 billion from Privatization Proceeds and N709.69 billion in drawdowns on multilateral and bilateral loans secured for specific projects and programmes.
Statutory Transfers
32. The sum of N484.49 billion provided for Statutory Transfers in the 2021 Budget represents an increase of N56.46 billion (or 13 percent) over the revised 2020 provision. The Statutory Transfer provisions are:a. Niger Delta Development Commission – N63.51 billion;
b. North East Development Commission – N29.70 billion;
c. National Judicial Council – N110.00 billion;
d. Universal Basic Education Commission – N70.05 billion;
e. Independent National Electoral Commission – N40.00 billion;
f. National Assembly – N128.00 billion;
g. Public Complaints Commission – N5.20 billion;h. Human Rights Commission – N3.00 billion; and
i. Basic Health Care Provision Fund – N35.03 billion.
33. In compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, all beneficiaries of Statutory Transfers will be required to provide the Budget Office of the Federation with periodic reports on the allocation and expenditure of funds for inclusion in the quarterly Budget Implementation Report.
Recurrent Expenditure
34. In our efforts to enhance national security and human capital development, a major part of the 2021 recurrent cost estimate is allocated to paying salaries and overheads in MDAs providing these critical public services. These include:a. N227.02 billion for the Ministry of Interior;
b. N441.39 billion for the Ministry of Police Affairs;c. N545.10 billion for Ministry of Education;
d. N840.56 billion for Ministry of Defence; and
e. N380.21 billion for Ministry of Health.
Personnel Costs
35. Personnel cost is still our largest single item of expenditure. In the 7 months to 31st July 2020, it accounted for 34 percent of total Federal Government spending and is projected at 33 percent of 2021 expenditure.36. To check the incidence of payments to non-existent personnel and unauthorised allowances, only Federal staff that have been captured on the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (‘IPPIS’) platform will receive salaries.
37. All agencies have been directed to ensure that they obtain all necessary approvals before embarking on any fresh recruitment. Any breach of these directives will be severely sanctioned.
Debt Service
38. We remain committed to meeting our debt service obligations. Hence, we have provisioned N3.12 trillion for this in 2021, representing an increase of N445.57 billion from N2.68 trillion in 2020. A total of N2.183 trillion has been set aside to service domestic debts while N940.89 billion has been provided for foreign debt service. N220 billion is provided for transfers to the Sinking Fund to pay off maturing bonds issued to local contractors and creditors.Overhead Costs
39. Total overhead costs of MDAs and Government Owned Enterprises are projected to rise to N625.50 billion in 2021, mainly due to the inclusion of the overheads of an additional 50 Government Owned Enterprises. Overhead provisions have also been made for newly created agencies. To keep a tab on running costs, MDAs must adhere to extant expenditure controls.Capital Expenditure
40. An aggregate sum of N3.85 trillion is expected to be available for capital projects in 2021, as summarised below:a. N1.80 trillion for MDAs’ capital expenditure;
b. N745 billion for Capital Supplementation;
c. N355 billion for Grants and Aid-funded projects;d. N20 billion for the Family Homes Fund;
e. N25 billion for the Nigeria Youth Investment fund;f. N336 billion for 60 Government Owned Enterprises;
g. N247 billion for capital component of Statutory Transfers; and
h. N710 billion for projects funded by Multi-lateral and Bi-lateral loans.
41. The 2021 capital budget is N1.15 trillion higher than the 2020 provision of N2.69 trillion. At 29 percent of aggregate expenditure, the provision moves closer to this Administration’s policy target of 30 percent.
42. Capital expenditure in 2021 remains focused on the completion of as many ongoing projects as possible, rather than the commencement of new ones. We have also made efforts to ensure equity in the distribution of projects and programmes in the proposed budget. I will be providing the National Assembly a list of some of the most critical projects which we must work collectively to ensure they receive adequate funding. Until projects reach completion, they do not deliver the dividends of democracy that Nigerians rightly deserve.
Highlights of the 2021 Capital Projects
43. Key capital spending allocations in the 2021 Budget include:a. Power: N198 billion (inclusive of N150 billion for the Power Sector Recovery Plan);
b. Works and Housing: N404 billion;
c. Transportation: N256 billion;
d. Defence: N121 billion;
e. Agriculture and Rural Development: N110 billion;f. Water Resources: N153 billion;
g. Industry, Trade and Investment: N51 billion;
h. Education: N127 billion;
i. Universal Basic Education Commission: N70 billion;j. Health: N132 billion;
k. Zonal Intervention Projects: N100 billion; and
l. Niger Delta Development Commission: N64 billion.44. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will facilitate the integrated development of its sector by promoting crops’ value chains; as well as providing rural roads, water and sanitation, veterinary and pest controls, grazing, food and strategic reserves, and access to inputs and extension services.
45. The 157 percent increase in the capital allocation to the health sector is to enhance the capacity to deliver healthcare services through the procurement of equipment, vaccines and other facilities. Two centres of excellence, as well as one Accident and Emergency Centre, will be equipped in Federal Teaching Hospitals in each geopolitical zone.
46. In addition, numerous Primary Health Care Centres will be equipped and upgraded across the six geopolitical zones. Furthermore, funds have been allocated for the expansion of Midwives Service Scheme in the six geopolitical zones. To enhance occupational safety, funds have been provided for the provision of Personal Protective Equipment for health workers.
47. The Ministry of Education’s capital allocation has been increased by 65 percent to improve the education of our children. Funds have been provided for the provision of scholarship awards to Nigerian students at home and abroad.
48. We have provided funds for the upgrade of security and other infrastructural facilities in our Unity Colleges nationwide. To improve access to education, we have made provision for the establishment of five new Federal Science and Technical Colleges. We have also provided for the payment of allowances to 5,000 teachers under the Federal Teachers Scheme.
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49. In line with our commitment to invest in Transportation Infrastructure, capital allocation to the Works and Housing sector is to facilitate the completion of several critical projects in 2021. I have directed the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning to provide a detailed breakdown of key infrastructural projects in her subsequent Press Briefing.
50. Key projects for implementation in the Power sector include several Rural Electrification Projects in the 36 States and Abuja, Rural Electrification Access Programme in Federal Universities, the Kaduna LPFO Gas Fired power Plant, the Mambilla Hydro Power Project and the Zungeru Hydropower Project.
51. Provisions have been made for legacy debts owed to local contractors compensation and resettlement of project-affected communities, the Renewable Energy Micro Utility (Solar) project, and the construction of transmission lines and substations nationwide. These project’s implementation is expected to have positive impact on electricity supply nationwide, as well as boost productivity and employment.
52. Projects to be implemented by the Ministry of Water Resources in 2021 include provision of potable water in the North East, construction of irrigation and dams across the country, and the provision of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene facilities.
53. The Ministry of Transportation has earmarked funds for projects such as the Lagos-Ibadan-Kano Line, Abuja-Kaduna Line, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Line and Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri Line. These projects, when completed, will minimize the cost of transporting people and goods around the country.
54. To maintain the peace in the Niger Delta region for economic and social activities to thrive, the provision of N65 billion for the Presidential Amnesty Programme has been retained in the 2021 Budget. In addition, the sum of N63.51 billion has been appropriated for the Niger Delta Development Commission and N24.27 billion has been provided for the capital projects of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. These allocations should further support the development of the region by facilitating the completion of important ongoing projects, such as the East-West Road.
Government Fiscal Strategy in 2021
55. The government is already implementing several measures to overcome our fiscal constraints. In addition to the Strategic Revenue Growth Initiatives, we are leveraging technology and automation, as well as more effective monitoring of Independently Generated Revenues. Our efforts are aimed at addressing revenue leakages and redirecting scarce resources to the poor and vulnerable. These efforts include:a. Deregulation of the price of petroleum products;
b. Ongoing verification exercise with IPPIS; and
c. Implementation of service-based electricity tariffs.56. The new petrol pricing regime has freed up resources that was allocated to subsidise petroleum products. Similarly, the ongoing IPPIS verification exercise has closed gaps that encourage ghost workers or pensioners. The service reflective electricity tariffs will help resolve liquidity crisis in the power sector and make the sector attractive to foreign investment. These reforms have released trillions of Naira for allocation to other priority areas.
57. Distinguished Senators, Honourable Members, permit me to reiterate that the main thrust of our capital spending programme in 2021 is the completion of as many ongoing projects as possible across the country. Accordingly, we have prioritized projects that can be rapidly completed to benefit our people.
58. Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members, I note, with satisfaction, your determination to promptly consider and pass the Petroleum Industry Bill into law. The enactment of this Bill will boost confidence and attract further investments into our oil and gas sector, as well as increase revenues.
59. I fully understand the difficulties many of our people are going through with the implementation of our reform agenda. However, the measures we are implementing are necessary for sustainable public finance, better allocation of our scarce resources and improved public service delivery. As we implement these reforms, social safety nets will be implemented to cushion the effect of the most vulnerable of our citizens as well as business owners.
60. In furtherance of our inclusiveness agenda, the sum of N420 billion has been provided to sustain the Social Investment Programme. N20 billion has also been set aside for the Family Homes Fund, our Social Housing Programme. We have expanded our National Social Register, to include an additional one million Nigerians following the onset of Coronavirus. We recently introduced the N75 billion Survival Fund Programme to support and protect businesses from potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the Central Bank of Nigeria is reducing the interest rate on its intervention facilities from 9% to 5% with a 1-year moratorium till 31st March 2021, to provide concessional lending of:
. N100 billion to households and small businesses;
a. N100 billion to the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry; andb. N1 trillion to large agricultural and manufacturing businesses.
61. We urge Nigerian businesses and individuals to make the most of these concessional credit facilities and other such opportunities.
Conclusion
62. Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished and Honourable Members of the 9th National Assembly; let me use this opportunity to, again, commend your firm commitment towards ensuring a very harmonious and productive relationship with the Executive. It is important to further deepen this relationship in the interest of our people.63. As you review the 2021 Budget estimates, we believe the legislative process will be expedited to ensure its prompt passage to sustain the restoration of a predictable January – December fiscal year. In this regard, I have directed all Ministers and Heads of Agencies to be personally available for budget defence.
64. Let me re-emphasize that Nigerians expect that the 2021 Budget will contain only implementable and critical projects, which when completed, will significantly address current structural challenges of the economy, improve the business environment and accelerate economic recovery.
65. May I conclude my remarks by commending the National Assembly for its support in steering our economy during these very challenging times. We remain committed to sustaining this partnership. We believe that as we work together, we will jointly deliver on our joint mandate to our people.
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Buhari Presents ₦13trillion Budget, National Assembly Gets ₦128b, Housing ₦20b
Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday presented before a joint session of the National Assembly a ₦13.08 trillion 2021 budget estimates for approval.
The President in his presentation of the budget estimates, which he tagged: “Budget of economic recovery and resilience,” explained that the main thrust of the document was to complete as many ongoing projects as possible.
President Muhammadu Buhari presents a ₦13.08 trillion budget before a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, Oct 8, 2020, in Abuja. Buhari emphasised that priority is giving to projects that directly affect the lives of Nigerians.
Further in his presentation, the President stated that the 2021 budget would drive the MDAs to generate revenue, no matter how little.
He appealed to the legislature to pay attention to the revenue as much as they did to the expenditure, saying the 2021 budget was the roadmap for post-coronavirus economy and was aimed at accelerating the economic recovery process.
On crude oil projection, Buhari put the figure at $40bpd. He also projected the exchange rate at N379 to $1, GDP at three percent and inflation rate at 11.95 per cent.
He disclosed that for consideration and passage, he had directed the Minister of Finance to finalise the Finance Bill and transmit accordingly.
Allocation of funds as contained in the budget Include a ₦128 billion to the National Assembly, and a ₦380.21 billion to the health ministry.
The President noted that the 2021 budget has the following as critical areas: Multiple Rural Electrification Projects, Mambilla Hydro Power Project, Zungeru Hydro Power Project, among others.
For the Social Investment Programmes, ₦420 billion has been earmarked, while the Social Housing Programmes been allocated ₦20 billion.
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2021 Budget Presentation: Senate Reduces Buhari’s Entourage to Observe Social Distancing
The Senate on Wednesday says only officials involved in budget preparation would be allowed to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari to the National Assembly for his presentation scheduled to hold on Thursday.
This was confirmed on Wednesday by the President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, who equally noted that the presentation of the 2021 national budget would take place for just one hour.
The decision of the Senate was to ensure COVID-19 measures are adhered to including social distancing.
Members of the red chamber were informed at the plenary that the 2021 budget presentation would be held in the green chamber of the House of Representatives.
‘This time around because of the situation of COVID-19 pandemic, we have made arrangements to observe social distancing in the chamber.
“We also have to wear or face masks mandatorily. We are going to also abridge the entire event because we will be many there.
“So the entire event will last just about an hour. From the entry of the President into the chamber and addresses and the presentation and laying will be just an hour event.
“This is done so that we would be able to comply with the requirements of the COvID-19 protocol.
“Mr. President this time around will not be accompanied by many people on the entourage.
“Only a few people, very key and relevant to the budget will accompany Mr. President into the chamber.
”I think by the arrangement those of them that have little to do with the budget will join virtually what will happen,” Senate President Lawan said.
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Legislative Retreat: Buhari Calls for More Synergy for Lifting 100m Nigerians Out of Poverty
Appreciating members of the ninth National Assembly for understanding, support and quick response to policy directions of the government on Monday in Abuja, President Muhammadu Buhari called for more synergy to consolidate on the gains recorded, particularly the ongoing effort to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in ten years.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, ìn a statement said the President equally charged the populace to be patient with government, advising that whenever there’s any legislation they have misgivings about, “they should engage the process for such laws in line with democratic processes.”
In his remarks at the Joint Executive-Legislative Leadership Retreat, held at the State House Conference Centre, President Buhari said the collaboration enjoyed from the leadership of the National Assembly had made it easier for the government to set and realize development goals, and respond to changes in the economy faster like the Coronavirus pandemic that necessitated review of the 2020 budget.
According to the President, some of the gains recorded from working together also include: accelerated passage of the 2020 Budget and its review in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, timely confirmation of nominees, and passage of critical legislations by the National Assembly.
“This retreat provides us another opportunity to interface, reflect, brainstorm and engage as One Government. I use the word One Government because there can only be one Government in a nation at a time and officials both elected and appointed in the Executive or Legislative arm must all be working for the peace, unity and development of our country.
“This Retreat named: “Promoting Effective Executive-Legislative Partnership: Finding a Middle Ground” is apt as it reflects the peculiarity of a Presidential system of government like ours.
“The experience of the last 20 years of steady democratic practice in Nigeria has underlined the need for effective partnership and collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government to deliver on our mandate.’’
President Buhari told the legislators that the Federal Executive Council had already streamlined its priorities to nine areas of development, and ministers had been mandated to align their targets with the bigger picture of making life better for all Nigerians, urging the legislature to align its priorities as well.
“While all members of the Federal Executive Council have been given clear mandates and yearly targets towards achieving the set indicators and goals, I recognize the critical role of the National Assembly in helping to deliver this Agenda and the strategic goals set by this Government.
“We cannot do this alone without your support and collaboration. I am equally aware that both the Senate and the House of Representatives have adopted the new Legislative Agenda for the current Assembly. I must thank the Senate President and Rt. Honourable Speaker for the updated version of the Legislative Agenda of the 9th National Assembly.
“The urgent need for aligning the 9-Point priority Agenda and the Legislative Agenda of both the Senate and the House of Representatives cannot be over-emphasized. I will therefore suggest that a Technical Committee be established after this retreat to harmonise these critical and strategic documents to help improve synergy and coordination.’’
President Buhari said he had already inaugurated a National Steering Committee co-chaired by the Honourable Minister for Finance, Budget and National Planning, and Mr. Peterside Atedo with representation from the National Assembly to oversee the development of the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) to succeed vision 20:2020 and the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020.
The President said the National Steering Committee will facilitate the linkage between policy-plans and budget in a manner that will help lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty within the next 10 years.
“Similarly, I unveiled a (9) Nine-Point Priority Development Agenda of this administration aimed at improving the livelihood of Nigerians within the next three years. These include: building a thriving and sustainable economy; enhancing social inclusion and reducing poverty; enlarging agricultural output for food security and export and attaining energy sufficiency in power and petroleum products.
“Expand transport and other infrastructural development; expand business growth, entrepreneurship and industrialisation; expand access to quality education, affordable healthcare and productivity of Nigerians; build a system to fight corruption on a permanent basis, improve governance and create social cohesion and improve security for all.’’
President Buhari recommended the establishment of a Technical Working Group to synthesise the outcome of the retreat and make appropriate recommendations to the leadership of the Federal Executive Council and the National Assembly in order to drive effective implementation of the resolutions or agreements reached.
“Let me also remind our fellow patriots, countrymen and women, that the process of law-making and governance are dynamic and ever evolving. I will seek their indulgence to be patient with any legislation or law which they have certain misgivings about, and engage the process for reviewing such laws in line with democratic practices.’’
The President thanked the ninth National Assembly leadership and legislators for the cordial and warm relationship enjoyed in one year.
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Senate President Lawan, Speaker of House Gbajabiamila face court suit over corruption probes
Nigeria’s National Assembly leaders, President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, and Speaker of House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, have been dragged before the Federal High Court, Abuja to defend themselves on reasons for refusing to publish reports of corruption probes supervised by the legislature.
The suit was filled on behalf of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare and Opeyemi Owolabi over the weekend at a Federal High Court in Abuja.
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The non-for-profit social initiative organization sued both leaders of the National Assembly specifically for failure to disclose the number of probes that have resulted in any indictment of suspects and to name such suspects since 1999.
Senate President Ahmad Lawan SERAP’s court action followed a recent public hearing by the National Assembly on corruption allegations in ministries, departments and agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), which the National Assembly has not issued a report.
According to SERAP reports of public hearings and corruption probes by the National Assembly had been kept secret, and the allegations unresolved.
The court papers as reported by the Guardian stated that SERAP wants an order of mandamus to direct and compel Senate President Lawan and Speaker Gbajabiamila to send all reports of completed public hearings and corruption probes to appropriate anti-corruption agencies to consider if there is sufficient admissible evidence to pursue prosecution.
Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila The plaintiff is also seeking an order for leave to apply for judicial review and an order of mandamus to direct and/or compel Lawan and Gbajabiamila to widely publish all reports of completed public hearings and corruption probes by the Senate and the House of Representatives and to disclose the number and names of any indicted suspects since 1999.
Further to SERAP’s prayers to the court is “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Lawan and Gbajabiamila to sponsor a resolution to stop lawmakers from directly getting involved in the execution of projects by MDAs, and to ensure the proper and effective exercise of their oversight functions over corruption allegations, including in the NDDC and NSITF.”
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In a Freedom of Information (FoI) request dated July 25, 2020, SERAP stated that “The most effective way to deter corruption is to make the cost of engaging in these types of acts higher than the rewards. This end can only be accomplished by making public the reports and pursuing public accountability for corrupt acts.”
While no dates have been fixed for the hearing of the suit, SERAP believes granting the reliefs sought would bolster public trust and confidence in the lawmakers’ oversight functions, and dispel the perception that many of the hearings and probes are politically-motivated and serve a personal interest, rather than the general public interests.