The Nigerian Senate has swiftly approved the N2.18 trillion supplementary budget for the 2023 fiscal year, as proposed by President Bola Tinubu. The bill, which was presented in a letter read during plenary by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has garnered widespread support for its allocation towards essential areas.
This supplementary budget was urgently required to address several critical issues, including an increase in the wage bill for public servants, a cash program for vulnerable Nigerians, investments in road infrastructure, and enhanced security measures. President Tinubu, in his letter to the Senate, emphasized the importance of prompt consideration, drawing parallels to the speedy approval of the N819 billion supplementary budget passed earlier in June of the same year.
The Senate responded to this call by facilitating the bill’s swift passage to the second reading. Opeyemi Banidele, the Senate Leader (APC Ekiti Central) presented a compelling argument during the lead debate, further expediting the process.
During the general debate on the bill, several senators voiced their support for the N2.18 trillion supplementary budget. In particular, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau commended President Tinubu for seeking approval for this supplementary budget, distinguishing it from the previous N819 billion bill passed in June.
He clarified that the previous bill had been an amendment introduced by the previous administration, primarily focused on addressing oil subsidy removal and extending the timeframe. However, this new supplementary budget represents a genuine effort by the current administration to tackle pressing challenges, including insecurity, kidnapping, and oil theft across various regions of the country.
Senator Barau called on his colleagues to unite in supporting the bill to enable the government to address these pressing issues, enhance infrastructure, and bolster the agricultural sector.
Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the budget in addressing insecurity and other national challenges.
Senator Sani Musa (APC Niger East) stressed the necessity of allocating funds to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the upcoming November election, emphasizing the need to confront security challenges effectively.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support for the supplementary appropriation bill. He also praised President Tinubu for initiating this critical step.
The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for further consideration and action.
