Posted by Kawthar Abdulkareem | a month ago | 203 times
In a bid to drive economic growth and development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled a ₦47.9 trillion proposed budget for 2025 to the 10th National Assembly. Presented on December 18, 2024, the budget marks a significant increase from the ₦27.5 trillion budget of 2024. The president christened the proposal as the “Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace and Building Posterity.”
In his address, President Tinubu emphasized that the 2025 budget is aimed at rebuilding Nigeria and fostering peace, prosperity, and hope for a brighter future.
“The 2025 budget comes at a crucial time in our nation’s trajectory,” Tinubu said. “This proposal outlines a roadmap to peace, prosperity, and hope for a greaterfuture for Nigeria"
The president highlighted several priority areas for the proposed budget:
Defence and Security (₦4.91 trillion)
This substantial allocation is earmarked for the military, paramilitary, and police forces. It aims to bolster national security, safeguard borders, and ensure government control across all territories. Investments will include modern tools and technology to protect citizens effectively.
Infrastructure Development (₦4.6 trillion)
A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to energy, transport, and public works. The administration plans to leverage private capital to complete key projects, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.
Education (₦3.5 trillion)
The education sector will receive funding for infrastructure development, covering the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and nine new higher institutions. The president also highlighted the administration’s disbursement of over ₦340 billion to university students through the NELFund initiative.
Health (₦2.48 trillion)
The health sector will benefit from infrastructure investments, alongside an additional ₦282.65 billion allocated to the Basic Health Care Fund. These resources aim to revitalize hospitals and improve nationwide access to quality healthcare.
Agriculture
The administration intends to boost agricultural productivity by supporting farmers with funding and essential inputs. Tinubu reaffirmed that food security remains non-negotiable, emphasizing measures to ensure that all Nigerians have access to adequate food.
“Food security is non-negotiable. Our nation faces existential threats from corruption and insecurity,” Tinubu declared.
Economic Outlook
President Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic performance in 2025, citing a reduction in petroleum product imports and increased exports from domestic refineries.
“The time for lamentation is over. The time to act is now,” he urged.
Legislative Responses
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, commended the president for his efforts, highlighting the positive impact of the fuel subsidy removal. However, he called for reforms to prioritize tax collection and urged consultations with stakeholders to sustain the administration's mandate.
Similarly, Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, praised the president’s vision and the collaborative relationship between the executive and legislative arms. He described the partnership as essential for achieving sustainable development.
In conclusion, the 2025 budget proposal reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s challenges while laying the foundation for a prosperous and secure future. The National Assembly is expected to deliberate on the budget in the coming weeks.