The House of Representatives has announced plans to begin the defence of the 2025 appropriation bill by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) on Tuesday. This was confirmed by Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, after a meeting with statutory committee chairpersons. According to Bichi, the House is optimistic about passing the budget by January 2025, aiming for efficiency in addressing the country’s critical needs.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier presented a ₦49.7 trillion budget proposal for 2025 before a joint session of the National Assembly on December 18, 2024. Titled the “Restoration Budget,” Tinubu’s presentation emphasized prioritizing security, infrastructure, health, and education, promising to “secure peace and build prosperity.” The President, in his 30-minute address, outlined key allocations, including ₦4.91 trillion for defence and security, ₦4.06 trillion for infrastructure, ₦2.4 trillion for health, and ₦3.5 trillion for education.
The defence and security allocation, at ₦4.91 trillion, raises questions. While it is undoubtedly essential to prioritize security in a country plagued by various threats, we argue that past allocations have done little to enhance the safety of citizens. Will this year be any different? Or will the funds disappear into the usual black hole of government expenditure?
We only hope that this so-called “Restoration Budget” doesn’t end up being just another glorified wishlist.
