The Presidency has announced that the 2025 budget for State House agencies will be based on a comprehensive needs assessment to ensure that funds are allocated according to actual requirements. Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, made this declaration during a one-day fact-finding tour of various government agencies under State House supervision.
Gbajabiamila emphasized that with limited resources, it is essential to prioritize and assess the performance and mandates of these agencies to align their funding with the administration’s vision and the Renewed Hope Agenda. He acknowledged that some agencies have faced issues with inadequate funding and hinted at possible mergers or restructuring if deemed necessary.
“We are not going to budget in a vacuum for 2025. We will base our budget on a thorough needs assessment,” Gbajabiamila stated. He also pledged to enhance the welfare and working conditions of staff within these agencies and encouraged them to embrace innovation, excellence, and professionalism.
Accompanied by Deputy Chief of Staff Sen. Ibrahim Hadeija, Permanent Secretary of the State House Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, and Senior Special Assistant to the President, Mrs. Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, Gbajabiamila highlighted the importance of transparency in procurement processes to maintain good governance and accountability.
During the tour, which included visits to the Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Gbajabiamila underscored the role of these agencies in advancing the administration’s goals.
At NALDA, Gbajabiamila stressed the importance of the agriculture sector and urged the agency to continue its innovative efforts in areas such as greenhouse development and arable land cultivation. He also commended the agency for its role in enhancing food security.
At the BPP, Gbajabiamila praised the agency for saving the Federal Government approximately N1.7 trillion from 2009-2022 by identifying and blocking procurement loopholes. He acknowledged ongoing reviews of the BPP Act aimed at improving its operations and addressing issues related to staff remuneration.
Regarding the National Council on Procurement (NCP), which has yet to be inaugurated since the establishment of the Bureau, Gbajabiamila indicated that President Tinubu plans to inaugurate the Council soon, emphasizing the need for proposed amendments to the BPP Act.
At BPE, Gbajabiamila appreciated the agency’s contribution of over N1 trillion in proceeds to the Federal Government since 1999. He encouraged further improvement and collaboration to achieve optimal performance.
During the visit to NAEC, Gbajabiamila reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation. He recognized the role of nuclear technology in meeting the country’s energy needs.
At NASENI, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for its efforts in local content development, including advancements in electric vehicles, motorbikes, and solar-powered smart irrigation systems. He praised NASENI for its commitment to technological advancement and emphasized the importance of supporting local innovation.
Gbajabiamila concluded his tour by highlighting the importance of creating a conducive work environment to boost staff morale and productivity. He noted the need for adequate support for NASENI’s staff, particularly in addressing transportation challenges due to the agency’s location.
Overall, the Chief of Staff’s visit aimed to reinforce the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, improving staff welfare, and ensuring efficient and transparent use of resources in line with the government’s development objectives.
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