In response to recent allegations by Senator Abdul Ningi regarding discrepancies in the 2024 budget, the presidency, through Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, has debunked claims of operating multiple budget versions and reassured Nigerians of the accuracy and integrity of the budgetary process.
Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central and acting under the Northern Senators’ Forum, raised concerns over purported inconsistencies in the 2024 budget during an interview with BBC Hausa Service. Ningi alleged that the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was implementing a N28.7 trillion budget instead of the N25 trillion budget supposedly debated and passed by the National Assembly.
However, the presidency refuted these claims, emphasizing that President Tinubu presented a budget of N27.5 trillion to the National Assembly on November 29, 2023, comprising N9.92 trillion for recurrent expenditure, N8.25 trillion for debt service, and N8.7 trillion for capital expenditure. This figure was widely reported, contradicting Ningi’s assertion of a N25 trillion budget.
Furthermore, the presidency clarified that the budget signed into law by President Tinubu on January 1, 2024, amounted to N28.7 trillion, indicating an increase of N1.2 trillion by the National Assembly. This adjustment was made within the legislative purview of appropriation, underscoring the democratic principle of collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.
Addressing allegations of bias against the North in the budget allocation, the presidency affirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to equitable development across all regions of Nigeria. The budget encompasses funding for key sectors such as security, agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the North and other parts of the country.
Expressing disappointment with Senator Ningi’s divisive rhetoric, the presidency commended Senator Yemi Adaramodu and other senators for debunking misinformation and promoting national unity. President Tinubu’s adherence to constitutional principles and democratic norms was reaffirmed, assuring Nigerians of his unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law.
In conclusion, the presidency reiterated that the sole 2024 budget being implemented is the N28.7 trillion appropriation passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by President Tinubu. This budget includes statutory transfers to institutions such as the Judiciary, National Assembly, and Tetfund, reflecting a transparent and accountable fiscal framework.
Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga emphasized, “President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to transparent governance and adherence to constitutional processes. The allegations of multiple budget versions are baseless and misleading.”
Senator Yemi Adaramodu stated, “It is imperative that we set the record straight and dispel any misinformation regarding the 2024 budget. Our focus should be on fostering national unity and cooperation for the betterment of all Nigerians.”
