The Senate is set to hold an urgent session to deliberate on President Bola Tinubu’s proposed supplementary budget for the 2024 fiscal year.
This decision was announced by Chairman Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), who highlighted that the session, scheduled for Thursday, will also address pending bills, motions, and crucial constitutional and electoral issues.
“We aim to oversee appropriations diligently and resolve constitutional and electoral concerns, along with addressing pending bills and motions, before our annual recess later this year,” Adaramodu stated.
Earlier reports indicated that the supplementary budget amounts to N6.6 trillion, a substantial allocation that has sparked public interest, particularly amidst speculation surrounding the potential inclusion of funds for new presidential aircraft.
Contrary to widespread rumors, Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified on Tuesday that the Senate has not yet approved any budgetary provision for new presidential jets. This statement follows earlier recommendations from the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence advocating for the purchase of new aircraft for the President and Vice-President.
In January, President Tinubu signed Nigeria’s main 2024 budget totaling N28.7 trillion into law, aiming to bolster various sectors across the nation.
The emergency session comes at a critical juncture, with senators expected to debate the necessity and allocations of the supplementary budget against the backdrop of national economic priorities and fiscal prudence.