Boundary Commission Defends 2025 Budget Before Senate Committee
In a notable session held today, the Committee on States and Local Governments, chaired by the esteemed Senator Binos Dauda Yaroe, JP, FCA, convened to scrutinize the budgetary allocations for various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Today’s spotlight was on the Boundary Commission, one of the key bodies under the committee’s oversight.
The meeting, which took place in the Senate chamber, saw members of the Boundary Commission, led by its director, meticulously defend their proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025. The presentation was thorough, addressing every aspect of their financial requests, from operational costs to specific project funding to resolve inter-state boundary disputes.
Senator Yaroe, known for his financial acumen as a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), led the questioning with precision. He and other committee members grilled the Commission on the efficiency of past expenditures, the expected outcomes of the new budget, and how these would contribute to national cohesion and security, particularly in regions where boundary conflicts have historically led to tensions.
The Boundary Commission’s defense was centered around several key initiatives:
1. Technological Upgrades: The budget included significant allocations for modernizing boundary demarcation tools, aiming to reduce conflicts and enhance accuracy in boundary definition.
2. Community Engagement Programs: Funds were also earmarked for community dialogues and public awareness campaigns to foster peace and understanding in border communities.
3. Research and Documentation: A portion of the budget was dedicated to historical research and documentation to settle long-standing disputes by providing clear, evidence-based solutions.
After a detailed Q&A session, the committee expressed satisfaction with the Commission’s presentation. “The clarity and foresight in the budget proposal demonstrate a commendable commitment to national unity and peace,” Senator Yaroe remarked. He emphasized the importance of the Boundary Commission’s work in maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s federal structure.
The session concluded with the committee promising to review the budget proposal in light of national priorities and available resources, with an aim to support the Boundary Commission’s efforts effectively. This meeting not only highlighted the challenges of governance at the state and local levels but also the critical role of budget oversight in ensuring accountability and efficiency in government spending.
The outcome of this budget defense will likely influence how similar agencies prepare for their budgetary reviews, setting a benchmark for transparency and strategic planning in Nigeria’s legislative process.
