The 2023 supplementary budget, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on November 8, has come under fire from opposition figures. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has responded to these criticisms, asserting that the budget is a necessary and proactive response to the economic challenges facing Nigeria.
In a statement released by the Media Special Assistant to the Minister, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris defended the budget in the face of criticism from Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
Peter Obi had openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for alleged insensitivity in the allocation of funds within the supplementary budget.
Obi’s critique targeted items such as a Presidential Yacht, Presidential Jets, lavish furnishing of presidential quarters and offices, and fleets of luxury SUVs, which he claimed were included in the budget at the expense of pressing national needs.
Responding to these concerns, Idris urged Peter Obi to familiarize himself with the details of the N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget. He emphasized that the allocations within the budget encompass essential sectors such as security, agriculture and food security, works and housing, wage increases for workers, student loan schemes, and social safety nets. These allocations, according to Idris, are all directed towards strengthening the country’s economic foundations and improving the living conditions of Nigerians.
“The broad provisions in the supplementary budget is a reflection of President Tinubu’s strong desire and eagerness to support the vital functions of government, address urgent security needs, and fast-track the country’s recovery process from the economic impact occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy,” he said
Idris went further to urge opposition parties to exercise balanced and informed opinions while refraining from misrepresentation of facts for political gain.
He further explained that the supplementary budget was the result of active engagement and consultation with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians. In line with President Tinubu’s commitment to accountability and transparency in government expenditure, he emphasized that all items in the supplementary budget underwent meticulous scrutiny to ensure efficient utilization of public funds.
