The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has come forward to defend the 2023 Supplementary Budget recently signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The minister emphasized that the budget is a necessary response to the current economic challenges facing the country.
This statement from Minister Idris follows criticism from the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who raised concerns over the approval of the N2.17 trillion supplementary budget by President Tinubu. Obi argued that certain emergencies and critical national needs were overlooked in the budget allocations.
“The government’s overall attitude does not indicate that it is aware that the country is in a huge crisis, nor is the government in tune with the plight of the generality of our people,” he said.
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Obi added that, given the current challenging circumstances, Nigerians expect the government to demonstrate empathy and practicality rather than indulging in lavish expenditures. But instead, the Supplementary Budget, which includes luxury items for the president and his wife, portrays a government that is totally uncaring and insensitive to the suffering of the majority, and indifferent to the mood of the nation.
In response to this assertion, Minister Idris urged Obi to thoroughly familiarize himself with the details of the N2.17 trillion 2023 supplementary budget. He highlighted that the budget includes allocations for crucial sectors such as security, agriculture, infrastructure, worker wage increases, student loan schemes, and social safety nets.
According to Minister Idris, “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.”
Furthermore, Minister Idris clarified that the supplementary budget was formulated through active engagement and consultation with relevant stakeholders. This ensured that the budgetary provisions align with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.
He also urged political opposition parties to exercise their right to differing opinions in an informed and balanced manner. Minister Idris emphasized the importance of refraining from misrepresenting facts for political gain.
In alignment with President Tinubu’s commitment to accountability and transparency in government expenditure, Minister Idris assured that all items in the supplementary budget have been meticulously scrutinized to ensure the efficient utilization of public funds.
The 2023 Supplementary Budget has been a subject of significant discussion and scrutiny. Many Nigerians have expressed concern that the budget will make any positive impact on the country’s economy, especially as the country grapples with the rising cost of living.