The proposed N2.7 trillion supplementary budget approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has raised concerns from Mr. Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC).
In response to inquiries from the Nigerian Tribune, Rafsanjani expressed dissatisfaction with the significant sum allocated for bridge maintenance, the establishment of new ministries, and defence procurement.
He highlighted the government’s apparent lack of clear spending priorities and the need to address Nigeria’s economic challenges, poverty, and financial mismanagement.
Rafsanjani emphasised the responsibility of the government to block financial leaks, eliminate waste, and combat corruption to reduce governance costs.
The supplementary budget includes provisions for maintaining bridges, defence spending, and financing the new ministries.
Rafsanjani questioned the economic value of creating these new ministries and urged the government to consider alternative ways of achieving its goals using existing institutions.
He stressed the importance of responsible financial management and the need to address Nigeria’s economic realities, particularly the country’s struggle to generate sufficient revenue to service its debts.
Rafsanjani criticised the government’s spending on defence procurement, highlighting the redundancy of acquiring new equipment when previously purchased items have yet to be delivered.
In conclusion, he voiced concern that the government’s current approach does not reflect sound financial discipline, prudent resource management, or project prioritisation based on economic value.
Rafsanjani argued that the supplementary budget’s allocations may result in wasteful spending without significant economic or human benefits, benefiting only a select few.
This critique calls for a more thoughtful and economically responsible approach to government spending, especially in a country facing severe financial difficulties.
It suggests that the government’s current budget plans may not be aligned with the nation’s best interests, emphasising the need for more prudent financial management.
Source: Tribune Online