Senate President Calls for Ministerial Travel Restrictions During Budget Defence
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called upon President Bola Tinubu to impose restrictions on the foreign travels of Ministers and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) during the upcoming budget defence period.
Akpabio made this appeal during the presentation of the 2024 appropriation bill to a joint session of the National Assembly.
Expressing the Senate’s commitment to a thorough scrutiny of the 2024 budget before passage, Akpabio specifically requested that all ministers and heads of federal government agencies be mandated to refrain from overseas travels that could hinder their appearance before federal lawmakers to defend their budget estimates.
As the budget defence is set to commence next week and conclude by the end of December, Akpabio emphasised the importance of the timely and thorough review of the proposed budget.
Akpabio also urged the federal government to address the country’s high debt profile, requesting a lasting solution. He acknowledged that President Tinubu inherited this challenge and stressed the importance of effective leadership in resolving such issues.
Reaffirming the commitment of federal lawmakers to responsible governance, fiscal prudence, and the efficient allocation of resources, Akpabio pledged support for President Tinubu’s administration.
He highlighted the collaboration with anti-corruption agencies to prevent embezzlement of public funds and reiterated the National Assembly’s dedication to fighting corruption.
Akpabio concluded by assuring President Tinubu of the National Assembly’s readiness to support the administration and achieve significant milestones for the nation.
He underscored the importance of oversight functions to ensure taxpayer money is utilized for the benefit of the public.
Source: Premium Times
