- The minister encouraged Peter Obi to familiarize himself with the details, emphasizing that the budget prioritizes areas such as security, agriculture, housing, worker wage increases, student loans, and social safety nets to enhance the well-being of Nigerians
The Nigerian government has refuted claims by Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, regarding the insensitivity of the 2023 supplementary budget signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on November 8, 2023.
In an official statement on Thursday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, defended the budget as a proactive response to Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The minister encouraged Peter Obi to familiarize himself with the details, emphasizing that the budget prioritizes areas such as security, agriculture, housing, worker wage increases, student loans, and social safety nets to enhance the well-being of Nigerians.
“The broad provisions in the supplementary budget are 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,” the minister said.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s first supplementary budget, which seeks additional funding beyond the annual budget approved by his predecessor, is expected to boost the recovery of the economy from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a recession in 2022.
Minister Idris asked the political opposition to be fair and honest when they disagree, adding they should avoid twisting the truth for their selfish benefit.
He also said the supplementary budget came from consultations with relevant stakeholders, who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.
