2025 Budget Not A Mere Ledger, Must Prioritize Welfare Of Nigerians – Akpabio Warns Colleague

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has urged his colleagues saddled with the responsibility of working on the ₦49.74 trillion 2025 budget, to ensure that the welfare of Nigerians is prioritised.

He insisted that the final outcome of deliberations on the content of the document must take into account the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians as well as the promises made by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

Akpabio stated this in his opening remarks at the Stakeholders Public Hearing/ Interactive session on the 2025 Appropriation Bill, held in Abuja, yesterday.

He explained that while collaborating with the Executive, the lawmakers equally owe it a duty to their constituents to ensure that the interest of ordinary Nigerians enjoy its pride of place.

Akpabio said, “Together, we must ensure that this budget is not a mere ledger of revenue and expenditures but a living document that prioritizes the welfare of every Nigerian.

“Historically, budgets have been pivotal in transforming societies, addressing inequalities, and fostering economic and industrial growth.

“Nations that have achieved remarkable progress understood that budgets must not only reflect the priorities of government but also the hopes and needs of the people.

“Therefore, let it be known that the National Assembly stands resolute in its commitment to collaborate with the Executive to deliver a budget that is realistic, implementable, and reflective of our shared national priorities.

“We shall uphold the sacred principles of accountability, ensuring that every naira spent is a naira well invested in the prosperity of our people.

“But let us also recognize a deeper truth: no budget, no matter how meticulously crafted, can succeed without the active participation and ownership of the people. As an African proverb wisely reminds us, ‘The man who uses a spoon with his neighbor does not eat alone.”