The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has assured Nigerians that the 2025 budget proposal will be reviewed with the country’s best interests at heart. President Bola Tinubu submitted the ₦49.74 trillion budget to the National Assembly on December 18, 2024.
On Monday, January 6, 2025, Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, met with other committee leaders to prepare for budget defence sessions with Ministries, Departments and Agencies, which began yesterday.
Agbese, in an interview, emphasized that the parliament’s focus will be on national priorities such as security, economic growth, job creation, education and youth and women empowerment. “We are committed to addressing critical issues that will stimulate growth and improve the lives of Nigerians,” he stated.
He acknowledged the current economic challenges but urged Nigerians to remain patient, highlighting government efforts like the student loan scheme and infrastructure development in Abuja as signs of progress.
Agbese praised President Tinubu’s leadership and vision, noting that the administration’s tough decisions are geared towards national prosperity. He also commended the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas and the Appropriations Committee Chair, Abubakar Bichi, for their dedication to national development.
As the budget review process begins, Agbese calls for optimism and trust in the government’s ability to rebuild Nigeria’s economy and restore its glory.