The Minister of Information and National Orientation,
Mohammed Idris, has said the 2023 supplementary budget signed into law by
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 is not insensitive,
but rather a bold and pragmatic response to the pressing and economic
challenges Nigeria currently faces.
The Minister urged the 2023 presidential candidate of the
Labour Party to take the time and effort to acquaint himself with the details
of the N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget, which includes allocations for
essential sectors: security, agriculture and food security, works and housing,
wage increase for workers, student loan scheme and social safety nets, among
others, all aimed at strengthening the country’s economic foundations and
improve 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,” said Idris.
Idris urged the political opposition to be informed and
balanced in the exercise of their right to differing opinions and refrain from
misrepresentation of facts for political gains, explaining that the
supplementary budget was derived from the active engagement and consultation
with relevant stakeholders who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned
with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.
Idris emphasized that, in line with President Tinubu’s
inclination to accountability and transparency in government expenditure, all
items in the supplementary budget have been meticulously scrutinised to ensure
efficient utilisation of public funds.
