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Strong indications have emerged emerged from the National Assembly that members of the House of Representatives are likely to step down the budget passage of Nigerian Army today. The move is seriously being contemplated ahead of the readiness of the Green Chamber to lay down and pass the national budget today.
Reason for the likely ‘step down’ of the Nigerian Army budget is not unconnected with the meagre N28 billion budgeted for capital projects in year 2022. This is in view of the worsening security situation in the country.
A source in the House of Representatives who pleaded anonymity said the budgetary provisions made for the capital projects of Nigerian Army in the 2022 budget was too meagre and totally unacceptable. The member described the budgeted sum as ridiculously small for a nation that is passing through unprecedented security challenges.
“Truth is that what has been budgeted for the capital projects of Nigerian Army is too small and not in any way acceptable to us. How on earth can a meagre sum of N28 billion be for the capital projects of an Army that is fighting several wars across the nation. How on earth can we expect improvement in the nation’s security situation if this kind of ridiculous budget is allowed to stand”.
The source further said that the budget of Nigerian Army will most likely be delayed as most members of the House Committee on Army are determined to move against the budget. The source also added that the Army budget might be stepped down today, while the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya will be re-invited for a proper and acceptable review of the capital budget.
“I can assure that most patriotic members of the House Committee on Army are poised to move against the passage of this capital projects budget of the Army. The right thing must be done for the nation to progress and enjoy peace. The right thing to do at this time is to call on the Chief of Army Staff once for a proper review of the capital projects budget”, the source added.
