The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has revealed that the 2025 budget for State House agencies will be formulated based on a thorough needs assessment. This announcement follows his recent visits to key government bodies, such as the Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), where he highlighted the importance of transparency and enhanced staff welfare.
Speaking to State House Correspondents in Abuja on Wednesday, Gbajabiamila emphasized that the upcoming budget will not be created in isolation but will reflect the actual requirements of the agencies. He stressed the importance of prioritizing resources, noting that many agencies are underfunded and suggesting that some might need to be merged or restructured.
The Chief of Staff also committed to improving the working conditions of State House agency staff, urging agency leaders to embrace innovation and professionalism. He assured that concerns like staff remuneration and inadequate office accommodations would be addressed, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
During his tour, which included visits to agencies like the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Gbajabiamila underscored the critical role these institutions play in advancing the government’s economic and developmental goals. He also reiterated the administration’s dedication to enhancing transparency in the procurement process, which is vital for good governance and accountability.
Accompanied by key officials, Gbajabiamila praised the agencies for their achievements while also pointing out areas needing improvement. He particularly commended BPP for saving the Federal Government N1.7 trillion from 2009 to 2022 by preventing procurement loopholes. He also highlighted the need for the Bureau’s establishment act to meet international standards.
Gbajabiamila reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging nuclear technology for peaceful purposes at the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC). He also lauded NASENI for its efforts in promoting local content development, especially in modern technologies like electric vehicles and solar-powered irrigation systems.
In conclusion, Gbajabiamila stressed that agencies like NASENI are crucial in ensuring Nigeria’s technological advancement, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision. He emphasized the need to support staff welfare, particularly in addressing transportation challenges for NASENI employees due to the agency’s location.
