Laleye Dipo in Minna
Less than 12 hours after the state house of assembly passed the 2024 appropriation Bill yesterday, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has assented to it.
The assembly in passing the bill increased it from N613.9 billion presented to the house last week by the Governor by N720 million
Speaking after the signing Governor Bago commended the efforts of the legislators for the quick passage of the bill, describing it as “unprecedented,” noting that the budget holds a lot for the state and assured that it will be implemented accordingly.
He directed all revenue-generating Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to rise to the occasion but cautioned those who “generate and spend” not to dare him as the policy has been abolished.
Bago restated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the existing synergy with the legislative arm adding that he has directed that the Legislative quarters at the three Arms zone be completed in the next three months so that the lawmakers will have befitting accommodation.
The governor also said that the instrument of oversight function of the legislature will not be compromised, pointing out that all the heads of MDAs that refused to present themselves before the Legislature for “scrutiny and status enquiry will be fired.”
“The legislature and its sanctity must be protected. For the government to do well, somebody must criticize and scrutinize the activities of the government. We should leave our books open in the Spirit of accountability,” he said.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, had explained that the budget size was increased by N720 million to cater to some critical areas of need for the realisation of the “New Niger” agenda.
The Speaker said the quick passage was achieved because the Planning Commission was able to carry the Legislature along in the budget preparation.
He applauded the governor for his unflinching support to the legislature assuring him that the 10th Assembly shared his vision and will stop at nothing to ensure it is realised.
