Buhari presents 2022 budget to National Assembly

Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari has presented the 2022 budget to the National Assembly for approval.

Buhari arrived at the National Assembly Complex in the company of governors, ministers, and heads of Federal Government agencies.

He noted that the 2022 Appropriation bill is tagged a “Budget of Economic Growth and Sustainability.” It is estimated at ₦16.39trillion.

The Nigeria president stated that the budget was designed “to build on the achievements of previous budgets and to deliver on our goals and aspirations as will be reflected in our soon-to-be-launched National Development Plan of 2021 to 2025.”

He said allocations to MDAs were guided by the strategic objectives of the National Development Plan of 2021 to 2025, which are: Diversifying the economy, with robust MSME growth; Investing in critical infrastructure; Strengthening security and ensuring good governance; Enabling a vibrant, educated and healthy populace; Reducing poverty; and Minimizing regional, economic and social disparities.

“Defence and internal security will continue to be our top priority. We remain firmly committed to the security of life, property and investment nationwide,” Buhari said.

“We will continue to ensure that our gallant men and women in the armed forces, police and paramilitary units are properly equipped, remunerated and well-motivated.

“The 2022 budget is also the first in our history, where MDAs were clearly advised on gender-responsive budgeting. These are part of critical steps in our efforts to distribute resources fairly and reach vulnerable groups of our society.”

Buhari commended members of the National Assembly for “the expeditious consideration and passage of the Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2021. This further underscores your commitment to our collective efforts to contain the COVID-19 Pandemic and address the various security challenges facing our country.”

Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, said the National Assembly is committed to passing the budget before the end of the year.

He also lauded the 2021 budget for being the first to be fully implemented and credited that for helping Nigeria recover from the 2020 economic recession.