By Fatima Saka
The Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation on Tuesday rejected the proposed budget allocation for the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
The committee argued that the government must adequately fund the ministry, emphasizing its crucial role in nation-building. Lawmakers compared Nigeria’s allocation to that of other countries and deemed it grossly insufficient.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Kenneth Chukwuemeka Eze, representing Ebonyi Central Senatorial District, expressed disappointment that the ministry presented a budget even lower than previous years. He stated, “It is not proper or acceptable for us to legislate on such a proposal. The Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation unanimously resolved to return this project for review.”
The committee emphasized the ministry’s critical role in educating Nigerians about government policies, addressing public hardship, and fostering national cohesion. Senator Eze further remarked, “Funding the information sector properly is essential to achieving the desired results. If the government cannot fund it adequately, we may as well consider that we do not have a Ministry of Information and National Orientation.”
The lawmakers compared Nigeria’s allocation of ₦8–10 billion to South Africa’s budget of over ₦400 billion for a similar sector, despite South Africa having a smaller population. “What are we appropriating here? The government must return to the drawing board and propose a budget that can effectively educate Nigerians and communicate government policies,” Eze added.
Ministry’s Response
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the committee’s concerns during the budget defense. He stated, “At the very least, we need an allocation of ₦50 billion to meet the ministry’s basic needs, including personnel emoluments. Information is not a secondary function; it is a critical component of governance and national planning.”
READ ALSO: 2025 Budget Defense: National Assembly Proposes Exclusion of JAMB from FG Budget Allocation
He further explained that the ministry plays a vital role in informing Nigerians about government reforms and policies. “Reforms that began last year are expected to be consolidated in 2025. It is crucial for Nigerians, especially their representatives, to recognize the importance of the information sector and provide the resources necessary for its success,” Idris said.
Senate’s Action
The Senate has summoned the Ministry of Budget and Planning and other relevant stakeholders to appear before the committee regarding the budget allocation for the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
The lawmakers aim to ensure the sector receives adequate funding to fulfill its mandate effectively.
