… Confirms 5 INEC RECs

BY CAROLINE AMEH

The Senate on Wednesday passed the N1.8 trillion 2025 budget for the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for second reading.

The appropriation bill, submitted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeks to authorise the withdrawal of funds from the FCT’s statutory revenue fund.

Presenting the bill, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the budget was aimed at improving services for residents and completing ongoing projects.

He said N150 billion was allocated for personnel costs, N343 billion for overheads, while N1.2 trillion was earmarked for capital projects.

Bamidele said although the focus was on projects already underway, a few new but necessary ones were also included.

He urged the Senate to ensure quick passage of the budget to maintain momentum on key infrastructure.

Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC–Borno) commended the focus on existing projects, describing it as a responsible approach.

Senator Oyelola Ashiru (APC–Kwara) said the 70 percent capital allocation made the proposal balanced and growth-oriented.

Senator Adetokunbo Abiru (APC–Lagos) supported the bill but called for clarity on funding sources for the capital projects.

Senator Victor Umeh (LP–Anambra) praised visible improvements under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, but urged government to extend development to surrounding areas to address high land costs.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on FCT and asked it to report back within one week.

Meanwhile, the Senate on Wednesday confirmed five nominees as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The confirmation followed the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on INEC, chaired by Senator Simon Lalong (APC–Plateau).

Lalong said the nominees were thoroughly screened and met the required qualifications, integrity, and experience for the role.

He told the Senate that all five answered questions satisfactorily and were considered competent for the position.

The confirmed RECs are to serve in Kano, Bauchi, Anambra, Borno and Bayelsa states.

Their confirmation is expected to boost INEC’s preparedness and operational strength ahead of future elections.