The Senate Majority Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has disclosed that starting next year, the Federal Government will take action against economic saboteurs responsible for making life difficult for Nigerians. Bamidele emphasized the need for the National Assembly to pass the 2024 Appropriations Bill on December 30 to maintain the January-December budget cycle.
During a session with journalists in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Monday, Bamidele expressed serious concerns about economic saboteurs influencing exchange rates and making the naira scarce. He announced the government’s intention to charge, prosecute, and punish those engaged in economic sabotage, with specific actions planned for the coming year.
Bamidele highlighted the Federal Government’s plan to heavily invest in agriculture and agro-allied industries, aiming to harness solid mineral potential and sustain daily crude oil production of 1.7 million barrels.
Regarding the 2024 Appropriation Bill, he assured that the National Assembly would pass the budget on December 30. To expedite the process, the time for budget defense has been shortened by having all ministries, departments, and agencies appear before joint sittings of relevant committees.
Bamidele explained the federal government’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, stating that it was the right move. He acknowledged a fightback from beneficiaries of the subsidy and their attempts to increase the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, emphasizing that Nigeria is more of a consumer economy and does not produce fuel.
The Majority Leader highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing economic challenges and urged a collective effort to combat sabotage for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
