N3trn Budget Padding Sparks Outrage as Senate Probes Possible Mismanagement of Public Funds in Presidency

Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District and serves as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, has expressed alarm regarding the discrepancy between the budget approved by the Nigerian Senate and the budget being implemented by the presidency.

According to a message obtained by our correspondent Nigeria from a reliable source, Senator Abdul Ningi stated on Saturday, March 9, 2024, that while one budget was approved by the National Assembly and signed by President Bola Tinubu, the budget being implemented by the presidency includes an additional ₦3 trillion.

Senator Abdul Ningi emphasized that this is the most significant instance of budget padding to occur in Nigerian history under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

He stated, “For the first time in Nigerian history, we are currently operating with two distinct budgets. The National Assembly approved a budget of ₦25 trillion, whereas the Federal Government is operating with a budget of ₦28 trillion.”

“Apparently, we have discovered that ₦3 trillion has been inserted into the budgets without any specified allocations.”

“As representatives of the people, we have resolved to meet with President Tinubu to address this matter and present him with the facts and figures. We intend to ascertain whether he is aware of this embarrassing situation and take appropriate action thereafter.”

“Let the Nigerian people exercise patience with us. This is a national issue that affects all Nigerians, regardless of political party, ethnicity, or religion,” he added.

Signed: Senator Abdul Ningi, Chairman, Northern Senators Forum, BBCHAUSA, Saturday, March 9, 2024.