FG defends supplementary budget as a bold answer to economic issues

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget into law on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, as a bold and pragmatic response to the urgent and economic challenges Nigeria faces.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, defended the budget as not insensitive but rather a reflection of President Tinubu’s commitment and eagerness to support the vital functions of government, address pressing security needs, and accelerate the country’s recovery process from the economic impact caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.

The Minister advised the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party to study the details of the 2023 Supplementary Budget, which includes allocations for essential sectors: security, agriculture and food security, works and housing, wage increases for workers, student loan schemes, and social safety nets, among others, all aimed at strengthening the country’s economic foundations and improving the living conditions of Nigerians.

“The supplementary budget was derived from the active engagement and consultation with relevant stakeholders who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians,” said Idris.

Idris also urged the political opposition to be informed and balanced in the exercise of their right to differing opinions and refrain from misrepresenting facts for political gain, explaining that all items in the supplementary budget have been meticulously scrutinised to ensure efficient utilisation of public funds.

Idris emphasised that, in line with President Tinubu’s inclination to accountability and transparency in government expenditures, the supplementary budget will be implemented with the utmost diligence and prudence.