House of Representatives has pledged to prioritise the interest of all Nigerians in increasing the 2025 budget from N49.7 trillion to N54.2 trillion.
Its Deputy Spokesperson, Philip Agbese (APC-Benue) said this in an interview with newsmen yesterday in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that President Bola Tinubu had, in December 2024, presented the 2025 budget of 49.7 trillion to the joint sitting of the National Assembly for consideration.
However, in a letter addressed to both chambers of the National Assembly on Wednesday, the president requested that the budget be increased to N54.2 trillion.
Agbese said the Jouse is in support of the proposal to increase the 2025 budget, stating that the development was driven by additional revenue from key government agencies.
He noted that in scrutinising the budget, the House would be guided by its commitment to ensure that every naira allocated is utilised in the best interest of the common man.
According to him, this bold move, driven by additional revenue from key government agencies, demonstrate the Tinubu-led administration’s commitment to revitalise the economy and improve the lives of Nigerians.
He assured Nigerians that the House would go the whole distance to ensure the implementation of value-for-money budget in the 2025 fiscal year.
“As we begin our scrutiny of the proposal, we will continue to be guided by our commitment to ensure that every naira is allocated efficiently, effectively and in the best interest of Nigerians.
“As we delve into the details of the proposal, we are particularly encouraged by the focus on strategic sectors, such as agriculture, which will receive a significant boost through the injection of funds into the Bank of Agriculture.
“This initiative has the potential to empower our farmers, stimulate rural development and enhance food security.
“We also noted the proposal’s emphasis on enhancing national security, particularly the construction of barracks for our troops.
“This investment in our military’s welfare and infrastructure attests to the administration’s dedication to protect our nation and its citizens,” he stated.
Agbese added that both chambers of the National Assembly would debate the budget estimates in the weeks ahead, preparatory to its passage before the end of the month.
