The Centre for Accountability and Probity (CAP) has commended the chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Bichi, for his commitment to transparency and accountability.
CAP, in a statement signed by its Coordinating President, Princess Ajibola Naomi, said the recently transmitted the 2024 Supplementary Budget to the National Assembly went through scrutiny and public engagement under Bichi in the House of Representatives.
Naomi said Hon. Bichi in his nature engaged stakeholders by conducting public hearings, and scrutinising the executive bill to ensure that the supplementary budget serves the best interests of Nigerians.
“Bichi’s innovative approach to the budgetary process has introduced a new level of transparency and accountability, setting a benchmark for future budgetary processes.
“His commitment to ensuring that every detail is scrutinized, and the executive accounts for every penny, is a testament to his dedication to the Nigerian people.
“Bichi has introduced public engagement and scrutiny of the budget estimates, ensuring that stakeholders’ inputs are considered.
“He has also conducted public hearings to ensure transparency and accountability and analysed every detail of the executive bill to prevent misappropriation of funds.
“Furthermore, he has ensured that the supplementary budget aligns with the priorities of Nigerians,” she said.
Naomi said Bichi has also improved the budget process by ensuring timely submission of budget estimates by MDAs, conducting regular oversight visits to monitor project implementation, and engagement of civil society organisations to ensure inclusivity and transparency.
She noted that the House Appropriations Committee has also utilised technology to enhance budget tracking and monitoring, and provided clear and concise budget reports for easy understanding.
“Bichi’s leadership has changed the narrative in the budgetary process, promoting transparency and accountability,” she added. “His commitment to ensuring that the executive accounts for every penny has given Nigerians confidence in the budgetary process.”
The Centre for Accountability and Probity, therefore, urged Nigerians not to worry about the 2024 budget, as Hon. Bichi’s commitment will ensure that it will be utilised effectively for the benefit of all Nigerians.