NIGERIAN SENATE ADJOURNS PLENARY SESSIONS UNTIL NOVEMBER 19, 2024 For PROJECT EVALUATION And BUDGET OVERSIGHT
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced on Thursday that plenary sittings of the Nigerian Senate have been adjourned until November 19, 2024. This decision was reached after a deliberative session, where it was deemed necessary for the Senate to take a brief recess to allow for the thorough evaluation of ongoing projects funded by the 2024 capital budget.
In his address during plenary, Akpabio emphasized the importance of these oversight functions as a critical aspect of the National Assembly’s constitutional duties to the Nigerian people. This exercise will enable the relevant committees to assess the progress, challenges, and impact of various projects across the country. He also called for active cooperation from all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to provide relevant information and support to ensure the success of the oversight activities.
The upcoming focus on the medium-term expenditure framework and fiscal strategy paper (MTEF/FSP) underscores the Senate’s commitment to ensuring a well-informed and transparent budget process. These documents serve as foundational pillars for budget formulation and provide critical insights into revenue projections, expenditure patterns, and overall fiscal sustainability.
Moreover, the anticipation of President Bola Tinubu’s presentation of the 2025 budget proposal to a joint session of the national assembly adds another layer of significance to the Senate’s adjournment. Lawmakers are gearing up to engage in robust debates, thorough scrutiny, and constructive dialogue to ensure that the budget aligns with national priorities and addresses the pressing needs of the Nigerian populace.
As the Senate prepares to reconvene on November 19, 2024, expectations are high for a productive and impactful legislative session that will set the stage for effective governance, prudent fiscal management, and tangible development outcomes for the nation.