In a notable development within the 2024 budget estimates presented to the National Assembly, Ex-Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila plans to allocate a significant portion of the N21 billion earmarked for his office to renovate his official residence and acquire exotic vehicles.
Naija Update has learned that the proposed allocation includes N10 billion for the renovation of the Speaker’s official residence and N290 million for the purchase of high-end vehicles.
The unveiling of the budgetary allocation raises eyebrows and sparks discussions about the priorities and expenditures of key government figures.
The budget presentation came after President Tinubu submitted a comprehensive budget of N27.50 trillion for the 2024 Appropriation Bill before a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Following the presidential presentation, both the Senate and the House swiftly passed the 2024 Appropriation Bill for a second reading.
Subsequently, minor adjustments were made to some sectoral allocations, reflecting the legislative scrutiny and negotiation typical of the budgetary process.
A closer look at the breakdown of Gbajabiamila’s proposed budget reveals a diverse set of allocations.
Apart from the significant sums earmarked for residence renovation and vehicle acquisition, there are allocations of N104 million for computers and printers, and N579 million for local travel and transport related to international training initiatives.
Additionally, a substantial amount of N103 million has been designated for ‘miscellaneous’ and other unspecified items.
Notably, a considerable portion of the budget is allocated to the purchase of computer software, amounting to about N10.1 billion.
The emphasis on technology expenditure highlights the growing importance of digital infrastructure and connectivity in the functioning of government offices.
However, it is the allocation of N290 million for the purchase of vehicles that has captured public attention, particularly in the context of ongoing discussions about fiscal responsibility and prudence.
The significant investment in vehicles, described as ‘exotic,’ invites scrutiny and raises questions about the necessity and appropriateness of such expenditures within the broader socio-economic landscape.
As the budgetary process unfolds, Gbajabiamila’s allocations are likely to undergo further scrutiny and debate within the National Assembly.
The transparency and accountability of such budgetary decisions will undoubtedly be subjects of public discourse, reflecting the larger national dialogue on responsible governance and judicious resource allocation.
In a landscape where government spending is subject to increasing scrutiny, the choices made in the allocation of funds will play a crucial role in shaping public perception and trust in the leadership’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.
