ASABA/Nigeria: In a session dedicated to defending the 2024 budget proposals, the Chairman of the Delta State House Committee on Works and Special Projects, Hon Oboro Preyor, has reiterated the constitutional significance of budget defenses. These defenses, he emphasized, are pivotal in expediting budget allocations for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), crucial for enhancing transparency and ensuring accountability in governance.
The session, which convened Government MDAs before the Standing Committees of the Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday, marked the commencement of comprehensive discussions aimed at scrutinizing and justifying proposed budget allocations.
During these presentations, officials offered comprehensive insights into the budget performances of their respective MDAs for the outgoing year while elucidating plans for the upcoming fiscal year to the assembled lawmakers.
Representing Bomadi constituency in the House, Hon Preyor emphasized the collaborative nature of the sessions, urging the ministries to view themselves as partners in advancing economic progress within the state.
“The objective of this session is transparency, pivotal for fulfilling electoral promises to our constituents,” he underscored.
Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, speaking on behalf of the Ministry, disclosed the proposed budget allocation—a capital expenditure of one hundred and fifty billion naira alongside over five hundred million for recurrent expenditure.
Aniagwu revealed staggering statistics, noting the completion of 912 projects valued at N886.9 billion between May 2015 and November 2023, covering extensive road networks and drainage channels.
“The balance required to complete ongoing projects stands at N389.3 billion,” Aniagwu stated, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to completing ongoing projects across the state’s three senatorial districts, aligning with the current administration’s agenda.
Enumerating the pivotal role of Works in development, Aniagwu outlined the Ministry’s aims, spanning job creation, agricultural enhancement, industrialization, youth empowerment, improved access to healthcare and education, and better urban and intra-city road networks.
However, he acknowledged challenges such as inflation, currency devaluation, climate change affecting construction seasons, and funding constraints that pose impediments to the Ministry’s seamless operations.
In a separate meeting, the House Committee engaged with the Direct Labour Agency’s Management, urging a renewed approach and transparency in managing allocated funds for the benefit of Deltans.
“We’re focused on revitalizing the Agency for the benefit of Deltans,” stated Preyor, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to ensuring transparency and efficiency in utilizing resources.
Furthermore, the House Committee on Information convened with the State Ministry of Information, Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Asaba and Warri, and the Pointer newspaper, aiming to enhance their operational efficiency.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to bolstering media establishments, Chairman of the Information Committee, Hon Emeka Nwaobi, emphasized the significance of a well-informed society for understanding government activities.
“The Legislature is dedicated to supporting media efficacy,” Nwaobi emphasized.
The sessions concluded with both sides affirming their commitment to ensuring transparent and efficient utilization of resources to fulfill governmental objectives.
