Niger Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, recently took a significant step in the governance of the state by officially signing into law the 2024 appropriation bill, which boasts a substantial budget of over N613.9 billion. This pivotal moment occurred shortly after the State Assembly demonstrated commendable efficiency by swiftly passing the budget.
What makes this development even more noteworthy is the fact that the approved budget surpasses the initial proposal by a substantial N720 million, exceeding the N613.2 billion originally presented to the House of Assembly by Governor Bago. This adjustment reflects a thoughtful consideration of additional financial requirements or emerging priorities within the state.
Addressing the media shortly after appending his signature to the appropriation bill, Governor Bago took a moment to express his gratitude and appreciation for the diligent efforts of the legislators. He specifically commended them for their unprecedented quick passage of the budget, recognizing the significance of their collaborative work in achieving this feat. Governor Bago also reiterated his commitment to ensuring the meticulous implementation of the budget, underscoring its importance for the overall development and well-being of the state.
A noteworthy aspect of the governor’s post-signing remarks was his directive to revenue-generating Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to operate with heightened responsibility. He cautioned against any disregard for financial protocols and policies, emphasizing that the era of indiscriminate “generation and spending” has come to an end under his administration, Niger governor.
Furthermore, Governor Bago emphasized the importance of a strong and cooperative relationship between the executive and legislative arms of the government. He announced plans to expedite the completion of Legislative quarters at the three-arm zone within the next three months, providing legislators with a befitting accommodation that aligns with their roles and responsibilities.
In his commitment to upholding the sanctity of the Legislature, Governor Bago made it clear that the oversight function of the Legislature would not be compromised. He issued a stern warning to the heads of MDAs, indicating that those who refuse to subject themselves to scrutiny and status enquiries before the Legislature would face consequences, including potential termination, Niger governor.
The governor’s stance on accountability and transparency was encapsulated in his statement, “Legislature and its sanctity must be protected. For the government to do well, somebody must criticize and scrutinize the activities of the government. We should leave our books open in the spirit of accountability.”
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, shed light on the rationale behind the budget’s increase. According to him, the additional N720 million was allocated to address critical areas essential for the realization of the “New Niger” agenda—a testament to the government’s responsiveness to evolving needs, Niger governor.
Speaker Sarkin-Daji also acknowledged the seamless and rapid passage of the budget, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of the Planning Commission, which actively involved the Legislature in the budget preparation process. He lauded Governor Bago for his unwavering support for the Legislature, assuring him that the 10th Assembly shares and is committed to realizing his vision.
Conclusion: Niger governor
This momentous event had its origins on December 19, 2023, when Governor Bago presented the 2024 budget estimate, aptly tagged “the budget of the future,” to the State Assembly. At that time, Speaker Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji pledged that the legislators would work assiduously to ensure the budget’s passage on or before December 27, 2023—a promise that has been fulfilled with efficiency and dedication, Niger governor.
Source: guardian.ng
