On Tuesday, March 12, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted the 2024 budget for the Federal Capital Territory Administration to the House of Representative for consideration and passage. President’s letter seeking the passage of the budget, which was read on the floor of the House during the plenary session was silent on the estimate.
The letter reads: “In line with the provisions of sections 121 and 299 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory has prepared the 2024 budget proposal of the FCT, which is here before you for the consideration and approval by the National Assembly.
“The proposal has been prepared on the basis of the FCTA revenue and expenditure focus and is in line with the fiscal and development policy of the federal government and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“In addition, the budget proposal takes into consideration, the 2024/2026 economic recovery and growth plan as well as key assumptions in the 2024 budget.
“The FCTA is prioritising improvement in health care services, job creation, youth empowerment and increased productivity in agriculture in order to lift many citizens as much as possible out of poverty.
“I hereby forward the 2024 statutory budget proposal of the FCTA and I trust that it will receive the kind consideration and expeditious approval of the House of Representatives. Please accept the assurances of my highest regards.”
After reading the letter, the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, who presided over the plenary, directed that the request be forwarded to the Committee on Appropriation for deliberation ahead of its budget passage. The House of Representatives approved N579.69bn budget for the FCTA in 2023.