In a move aimed at addressing critical infrastructure gaps in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Senate has approved the sum of N98.5 billion as the supplementary budget for the FCT Administration in 2024.
The announcement of the passage came during Tuesday’s plenary session, as Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, confirmed the approval following the consideration and adoption of a report presented by Sen. Mohammed Ibrahim representing Yobe South, on behalf of the Committee on FCT.
However, before the report was deliberated, Sen. Ireti Kingibe raised a point of order, expressing her dissatisfaction with her exclusion from the activities of the committee on the FCT, despite being a member.
Senate President Akpabio acknowledged her concerns and advised her to follow due process by communicating her grievances through a motion.
The bill had previously been passed by the House of Representatives last week, paving the way for its consideration by the Senate.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier presented the bill to the parliament, emphasizing the necessity of the additional funds to address crucial infrastructure needs in the nation’s capital, which were not adequately covered in the 2024 budget.
With the Senate’s approval, the supplementary budget is expected to facilitate targeted development projects and enhance the overall infrastructure landscape of the FCT, addressing pressing needs and bolstering the city’s growth and development.