By: LAURA MATTHEW
2025 budget defence, 2024 budget appraisal at a glance, presided over by *Hon. Sam Olawumi Jacob,* member representing Mopamuro State Constituency who doubles as the Chairman, House Standing Committee on Budget, Planning, and Appropriations.
The lawmaker once again appreciated the chief servant of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his commitment to alleviating the suffering of Kogites through promotion of economic growth and creation of captivating and beneficial business environment.
Hon. Olawumi Jacob was joined by other honorable members of the committee, with officials from various ministries and parastatals, including Ministry of Local Government Service Commission, Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Information and Kogi State Water Board in attendance to defend their respective budgets for the 2025 fiscal Year.
The proceedings began with a prayer, after which the Chairman officially declared the budget defence process open.
The Chairman, on behalf of the Rt. Hon. Speaker warmly welcomed the representatives of the various government parastatals, urging them to feel comfortable in presenting their budgets.
“It is not a witch-hunting exercise, but rather a means to carry the public along in the affairs of the State and ensure public funds are used appropriately.”
He emphasized that the exercise is an opportunity to ensure transparency in the management of public resources.
“My honourable colleagues, permanent secretaries of the various government parastatals here present, distinguished ladies and gentlemen. You will all agree with me that ‘public funds are meant for public use,’” the Chairman remarked, underscoring the importance of accountability and the need to demonstrate how taxpayer money is being utilized for the benefit of the people.
The budget defence process proceeded smoothly, characterized by effective collaboration between the committee and the various government agencies as questions were answered and explanations were provided on how public funds had been utilized.
Hon. Olawumi and the honourable members of the committee carefully scrutinized the presentations, ensuring that the budget proposals aligned with the State’s development priorities and the needs of Kogi people.
The session today highlighted Kogi State House of Assembly’s commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and public accountability, as the committee worked together to ensure that the 2025 budget reflects the state’s priorities and managed in a manner that benefits the people of Kogi State.
*Signed:*
*Comr. Ajolore Joseph Damilola.*
*S.A Media and Publicity.*
*11th December, 2024.*