By Our Reporter
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has read for the third time and passed into law the 2024 Appropriation Budget to the tune of N849,970,759,990 billion, only.
The revised 2024 budget outlay of N849,970,759,990 billion, has an increase in the Recurrent expenditure of N6,148,150,000 billion with a total of N359,065,431,810 billion over the initial N352,917 billion.
The speedy passage of the bill into law was a sequel to the reports and recommendations submitted on the floor of the house by the Chairman House Committee on Appropriation and Finance and member representing Uruan State Constituency, Hon. (Dr) Itorobong Etim.
Presenting the reports, Hon. Etim said that the 2024 budget which is christened, “ARISE BUDGET FOR GROWTH AND EXPANSION” explained that the budget gives priority to projects and programmes under; Administration, Economic, Social, Law and Justice.
She however appreciated her Committee members, the press and the general public for their input at the course of the budget scrutiny.
She hinted that the committee adopted a participatory approach by organising a Public hearing, engaging various stakeholders, including; MDAs, NGOs, Labour unions, political parties among others.
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The Uruan lawmaker explained that the 2024 budget was prepared using the International Public Sector Accountability Standards (IPSAS) accrual template.
After due legislative scrutiny in the Committee of Supply, chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, the House passed the 2024 Budget into law and urged the clerk of the House, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok to communicate the same to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State Umo Eno.
Meanwhile, The House adjourned to Thursday 18th January 2024.