In a statement released by its Global Director-Mr. Abideen Olasupo, BBYDI specially lauded the state government for the introduction of a ‘basis for estimation and overhead descriptions’ in the 2024 budget, saying this had provided a foundation for clearer financial planning and accountability.

“These improvements address some of the key issues we have consistently advocated for, marking a positive step towards enhanced financial planning. Additionally, we commend the state government for incorporating forward-thinking initiatives in the 2024 budget, such as drug abuse prevention programmes and the construction of a rehabilitation centre.

“The allocation of a N100million as take-off grant for the Education Trust Fund project is also laudable, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational development in the state.

“…the budget provision of N16million for the establishment of crèches and breastfeeding corners in MDAs, promoting exclusive breastfeeding, demonstrates a holistic approach to healthcare and family support.

The group, however, demanded clarifications from the State government over some concerns it observed in the budget proposals which include missing overhead descriptions, unclear and non-specific line items among others.

The group called on the State Assembly to take time to properly scrutinize the budget proposal and not be in a hurry to pass it, adding that the concerns it raised about some line items in the budget should be reviewed to ensure responsible and effective distribution of public resources in the overall interest of the people.

BBYDI thus, encouraged members of the public to take interest in scrutinizing the budget and seek appropriate clarifications from the government.