The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has remarked that Nigerians are currently facing challenging times and emphasized the need for the budget to prioritize social welfare. Abbas conveyed this sentiment on Wednesday during the presentation of the 2024 budget proposal by President Bola Tinubu.
The removal of the petroleum subsidy and the unification of the exchange rate by President Tinubu have contributed to an increase in the cost of living in Nigeria. Speaker Abbas cautioned that the budget should not be viewed merely as a financial document but should be crafted to decisively address the most pressing needs of the citizens who have been enduring hardships.
Acknowledging the widespread difficulties experienced by millions of constituents, Abbas stated that the Tinubu-led government is expected to deliver prompt and sustainable solutions to these challenges. Regarding the president’s request for the budget to be passed before December 31, Abbas assured that the National Assembly would prioritize and diligently scrutinize the bill. He pledged to ensure that the budget, when passed, effectively addresses the critical needs of the people.