Updates:

2022 BUDGET: REP. IDEM RAISES CONCERN OVER HUGE DEFICIT

…Charges government agencies on revenue generation

The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem has expressed concern over the huge budget deficit of the federal government in the 2022 Appropriation Bill before the National Assembly.

Idem while making contributions during debate on the general principles of the national budget on the floor of the House of Representatives also charged Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to intensify effort in generating more revenue for the government in order to help bridge the huge deficit gap.

“When you look at the level of deficit that we have to bridge, you will discover that this country has wasted lot of resources. A situation where departments and agencies within the government still owe the government billions of naira yearly with no good explanation calls for serious concern if the country must address the challenges it faces,” Rep. Idem said.

Idem who is also the Deputy Chairman House Committee on Communications expressed worry over slow implementation of budget by MDAs and called on his colleagues not to only stop at ensuring speedy passage of the budget but also closely monitor through oversight function on government ministries and agencies to ensure that the budget is properly implemented and on time.

“From the feedback I got from many constituencies, I discover that up till now budget implementation is not up to 60 per cent as we speak. I don’t know why agencies will wait until they get 100 per cent release before they start implementation, I think it’s better they implement in stages according to what they receive from the ministry of finance because the essence of timely budget passage is to stimulate economy,” Idem added.

The lawmaker commended
President Muhammadu Buhari for the timely presentation of the budget and members of the National Assembly for working tirelessly last year to ensure that 2021 budget was passed within stipulated time.