Reps Pledge to Prioritize National Interest in 2025 Budget Review
The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Mr. Philip Agbese, has reassured Nigerians that the 2025 budget review will be conducted with the nation’s collective interest as the primary focus. This comes after President Bola Tinubu presented a ₦49.74 trillion budget proposal to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024, for consideration and approval.
Agbese emphasized the parliament’s commitment to addressing critical sectors that can drive Nigeria’s development. He stated that the review process would prioritize areas such as security, health, education, job creation, and youth empowerment. Speaking in an exclusive interview, he reiterated that lawmakers are dedicated to ensuring the budget aligns with the country’s economic and social needs.
“We have no other interest apart from our collective national interest. Our focus is on the good of our country and fellow Nigerians,” Agbese said. “As we begin this important exercise, we will carefully examine key sectors that can stimulate economic growth and act accordingly.”
The Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Bichi, has already met with other committee chairmen to strategize, while Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) commenced their budget defense sessions on Tuesday.
Agbese acknowledged the economic difficulties Nigerians are currently facing but urged patience, emphasizing that the Tinubu-led administration is implementing policies to address these challenges. He highlighted initiatives such as the student loan scheme, which has expanded access to education, and the ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja as evidence of progress.
“Times are tough, but the government is actively addressing these challenges. We’ve seen progress, including increased access to education through the student loan scheme and ongoing road construction in Abuja,” he said.
He expressed optimism about the nation’s future, stating that the government’s efforts would eventually yield positive outcomes. According to him, the administration’s focus on tough but necessary reforms will restore Nigeria’s lost glory.
Agbese commended the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and the Appropriations Committee Chairman, Abubakar Bichi, for their leadership. He noted that lawmakers’ readiness to work on the budget during their recess underscores their dedication to ensuring Nigeria’s progress.
“The readiness of lawmakers to begin work on the Appropriation Bill during recess is a testament to their commitment to building a Nigeria that works for everyone,” Agbese added.
The Deputy Spokesman concluded by urging Nigerians to remain optimistic, trusting in the government’s drive to create a nation of pride and prosperity for all citizens.
