Senate rejects Information Ministry’s N8.9bn budget as inadequate
By Kunle Sanni
The Senate Committee on Appropriations has rejected the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s proposed N8.9 billion budget for 2025, describing it as inadequate.
The Committee’s Chairman, Senator Kenneth Eze, announced the decision during a budget defense session where the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, appeared to present the Ministry’s appropriation.
Senator Eze noted that the decision to reject the budget was unanimous among committee members.
“Last year, the Minister appeared before the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, and we observed the very minimal appropriation for the entire Ministry, considering the critical role the information sector plays in this country.
“We are committed to driving a transformative agenda for Mr. President, and it was deemed necessary to recommend increased funding for the information sector. However, the expected results were not achieved,” Eze explained.
“This year, the Ministry presented a budget that is not only inadequate but lower than the previous year’s allocation. As responsive lawmakers, we cannot legislate on such an insufficient proposal.
“Therefore, the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation unanimously resolved to return this budget.
“If the government truly wants to fund the information sector, it must live up to expectations and allocate sufficient resources to ensure the sector achieves its objectives. Without significant improvement, we may have no choice but to recommend zero allocation,” he added.
Earlier, Minister Mohammed Idris, accompanied by the Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ibidapo Okunnu, and other agency heads under the Ministry, highlighted the Ministry’s mandate.
“The Ministry’s primary role is to project and defend the country’s image, disseminate information, and promote national values.
“The year 2024 was pivotal as we implemented a series of innovative and impactful programs to enhance public communication, deepen citizen engagement, and promote national values,” Idris stated.
