ASABA/Nigeria: Indications emanating from the Delta State Assembly signal an imminent passage of the state’s Appropriation Bill for the 2024 fiscal year this week.
Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon Marylyn Okowa-Daramola, alongside her counterpart in Information, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, gave the possibilty during separate interactions with the press at the State Assembly Complex in Asaba.
Okowa-Daramola, at the helm of the Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation, revealed the committee’s scheduled submission of its report on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, during the House’s plenary session. The disclosure came as a culmination of the Standing Committees’ diligent efforts, having reviewed reports and recommendations following robust sessions with the MDAs (Ministries, Departments, and Agencies).
Stressing the committee’s commitment to a meticulous review process, Okowa-Daramola emphasized the impending scrutiny and consolidation of recommendations, affirming the committee’s determination to meet the looming December 13 deadline.
Representing the Ika North East Constituency, Okowa-Daramola assured citizens that the envisaged “Budget of Hope and Optimism” is poised to fulfill expectations, promising comprehensive development across all sectors of the economy.
Meanwhile, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, also the Majority Leader and Chairman of the House Committee on Information, contextualized the fervent activities within the Assembly Complex as routine, underscoring the Committees’ relentless drive to meet the submission deadline.
Speaking specifically on the budget defense sessions, Nwaobi, representing Aniocha North in the House, highlighted their constitutional significance in the legislative journey toward passing the Appropriation Bill for Delta State.
The Majority Leader, invoking Section 121 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s constitution, expressed confidence in the Committees’ ability to adhere to the scrutinizing schedule. He reiterated the House’s commitment to collaboratively supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s “MORE” agenda, underscoring the legislative body’s resolve to advance the state’s interests.
In a separate engagement with officials from the Ministry of Information and its affiliated agencies, Nwaobi reinforced the House’s commitment to fortify synergy with state-owned media entities. Acknowledging the deficiencies in these outlets due to inadequate support and attention, he outlined plans for enhancement in line with the administration’s agenda.
While acknowledging past efforts, Nwaobi stressed the need for surpassing prior achievements, urging media management and staff to elevate their performance to effectively disseminate information.
With the clock ticking towards the submission deadline, the Assembly’s vigorous efforts signify a resolute stride toward realizing a comprehensive fiscal plan reflective of Delta State’s developmental aspirations.
