In a poignant address during the budget presentation, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, emphasised that Nigerians are grappling with challenging circumstances, underscoring the necessity for the budget to focus on social welfare initiatives. He made these remarks while President Bola Tinubu presented the 2024 budget proposal, drawing attention to the adverse effects of the removal of petroleum subsidy and the unification of the exchange rate, which have significantly escalated the cost of living in Nigeria.
Expressing a sense of urgency, Speaker Abbas cautioned against perceiving the budget as a mere financial document, urging a concerted effort to address the pressing needs of the citizens enduring hardship. “Mr. President, it is a well-known fact that millions of our constituents are living through incredibly difficult times. For this reason, they also look to the Tinubu-led government to provide quick and sustainable solutions,” Abbas articulated.
Addressing the timeline for the budget passage, Abbas assured the president of the National Assembly’s commitment to prioritising the bill, while also affirming thorough scrutiny alongside Nigerians to ensure it comprehensively addresses the populace’s critical needs. Furthermore, he urged the president to ensure the Ministry Departments and Agencies (MDAs) engage in hearings with the committees.
The call to put the spotlight on social welfare in the budget aligns with the prevailing economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, amplifying the urgency for meaningful and impactful solutions. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the criticality of prudent allocation of resources and effective social intervention programmes cannot be overstated.
As the budget proposal undergoes deliberation, it becomes increasingly imperative to adopt a holistic approach that not only considers economic indicators but also places paramount importance on uplifting the livelihoods of the citizenry. This proactive stance and prioritisation of social welfare embody a pivotal step towards truly addressing the profound needs of the people, serving as a beacon of hope in these trying times.
