Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Majority Leader, has announced that the National Assembly intends to pass the 2024 Appropriation Bill on December 30 in order to maintain the January-December budget cycle.

Speaking to journalists in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, Senator Bamidele emphasized the commitment of federal lawmakers to expedite the passage of the bill, necessitating the curtailment of their holidays.

During the session, Senator Bamidele expressed grave concerns about economic saboteurs who deliberately create difficulties for Nigerians, particularly by manipulating exchange rates and impeding access to the national currency. He revealed that the government plans to take action against these individuals in the coming year, charging, prosecuting, and punishing them for acts of economic sabotage. He also affirmed that those who engage in currency speculation will be closely monitored and held accountable for their actions.

Senator Bamidele further disclosed the government’s intention to make substantial investments in agriculture and agro-allied industries, as well as harness the potential of solid minerals to supplement revenue derived from crude oil sales. He emphasized the government’s determination to maintain a daily crude oil production of 1.7 million barrels.

Regarding the 2024 Appropriation Bill, Senator Bamidele assured that the National Assembly would pass it on December 30. He explained that the time allocated for the budget defense process had been significantly reduced by summoning all relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to appear before joint sittings of the Senate and House of Representatives, eliminating the need for subsequent harmonization. The Senate has been holding sessions beyond its regular days, even convening on weekends to expedite the process. The aim is to have the bill ready for the President’s assent on January 1, 2024, enabling its prompt implementation.

Senator Bamidele also addressed the government’s decision to remove fuel subsidies, asserting that it was a necessary step to end the regime and combat corruption. He acknowledged the resistance from beneficiaries of the subsidy regime, who are attempting to manipulate fuel prices due to Nigeria’s reliance on imports. However, he affirmed the government’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and self-sufficient economy that reduces dependence on fuel imports.