BUDGET 2020: Senate President Orders MDAs To Defend Budget In October

By Grace Tunji ,Abuja

 

The Senate has assured Nigerians that the legislature and executive would work harmoniously to pass the 2020 budget in a bid to take the country to the next level of development.

 

Senate President ,Senator Ahmad Lawan who gave the assurance on Tuesday in Abuja , directed all heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA’s) to commence budget defense immediately.

 

 

Senator Lawan also stated that all the various Committees will be expected to conclude their work on Budget defense within October, this year, adding that subsequent necessary legislative work will be carried out in November and December, leading to eventual passage before the end of this year.

 

The Senate President also order for timely passage, saying all MDAs are expected to appear before the Committees for the defense of their Budget estimates within the month of October.

 

“We have earmarked the month of October to be the sole window for all Budget defense activities in this year, by all MDAs.

 

” Mr. President, the National Assembly Committees are ready to receive the Honourable Ministers and other heads of government agencies for the defense of the Budget estimates of the various MDAs.

 

“We all want to ensure that the Federal Government is better enabled to provide enhanced security for protection of lives and property of Nigerians, an improved and revitalised economy, that is all inclusive; able to create and sustain employment opportunities for our teeming youths; taking Nigerians out of poverty to prosperity and sustainable development. Mr. President, we are all on the same page.

 

“Mr. President, the Budget Estimates, will remain what they are, estimates, until we are able to generate and receive the necessary revenues to fund and foot the bills.

 

“The National Assembly will continue to review how our revenue generation, collection and remittance would be more effective and efficient.

 

“We therefore need to review the laws establishing the agencies responsible with a view to enhancing their capacity and capability.

 

“The implementation of the Budget is as important and vital as the passage of the Bill, probably even more.

 

“Our Committees will work assiduously to undertake oversight to ensure proper and timely execution of the programmes and projects of Government.

 

“Finally, let me assure Your Excellency of the readiness of the members of the 9th National Assembly to partner with your administration to achieve all the goals and targets of taking Nigeria to the Next Level of development and prosperity.

 

“We need to ensure prudence, economy and value for money in the delivery of services to our people.