Budget Defense Suspended Amidst Funding Concerns: Niger Delta Minister Decries Alarming Budget Allocation

Budget Defense Suspended Amidst Funding Concerns: Niger Delta Minister Decries Alarming Budget Allocation

In a compelling turn of events at the National Assembly, the joint committee overseeing the Niger Delta Development budget defense has taken a resolute stand, suspending proceedings as concerns mount over the grossly insufficient funding allocated for the ministry in the proposed 2024 budget.

Chaired by the distinguished  Senator Jide Ipinsagba, the committee unanimously acknowledged the disheartening reality highlighted by the Minister for Niger Delta, Rt Hon Abubakar Momoh, regarding the dire inadequacy of the budget provision for the ministry, a sentiment deeply resonating with the aspirations of the Niger Delta populace.

During the deliberations, the Honorable Minister passionately articulated the glaring inadequacy of the allocated budget, considering the pivotal role of the ministry as an interventionist entity. He further underscored the absence of certain crucial agencies under the ministry’s purview, notably referencing the Amnesty Program currently under the direct auspices of the presidency.

Moreover, Minister Momoh emphasized the necessity of critical projects, such as the East-West Road, rightfully falling within the ambit of the Niger Delta Ministry but currently administered by the Ministry of Works.

In light of the concerning budget proposal totaling N21,276,015,678.00 billion, with a breakdown showing N18,066,640,858.00 billion, N1,167,783,281.00 billion, and N2,041,591,535.00 billion allocated for capital, overhead, and personnel costs respectively, the lawmakers echoed the Minister’s sentiments and urged an immediate reassessment of these allocations.

The lawmakers, empathizing with the minister’s concerns, advocated for a comprehensive review of the proposed budget. They summoned the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Niger Delta Development to appear before the committee. Their purpose will be to elucidate on matters concerning adequate funding, delayed releases of allocated budgets, and reasons behind such challenges.

Senator Henry Seriake Dickson spearheaded the motion for the suspension, which was resoundingly seconded by Mudashiru Lukeman, culminating in a pivotal decision that could significantly impact the future allocation and utilization of resources aimed at addressing the pressing needs of the Niger Delta region.

The suspension of the budget defense underscores a critical juncture in the ongoing efforts to address funding discrepancies within the Niger Delta Ministry, reflecting the determination of lawmakers to ensure equitable and optimal resource allocation for the development and well-being of the region’s populace.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah.

Source iReporteronline.