The National Assembly has taken a significant step by summoning the Finance and Budget ministers over the meager allocation to the Solid Minerals sector in the 2025 budget proposal. This move comes after the joint committee, chaired by Senator Sampson Ekong, expressed concern over the paltry N9 billion allocated to the Solid Minerals Development Ministry. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, had earlier appeared before the committee, highlighting the need for an upward review of the allocation to effectively develop the sector.
The National Assembly's joint committee has called for a review of the allocation, citing the importance of the Solid Minerals sector to the country's economy. The committee believes that the current allocation is insufficient to support the growth and development of the sector, which has the potential to contribute significantly to the country's revenue.
The summoning of the Finance and Budget ministers is a clear indication that the National Assembly is committed to ensuring that the Solid Minerals sector receives the necessary funding to thrive. The ministers are expected to appear before the committee to explain the rationale behind the allocation and to provide a plan for increasing the funding to the sector.
This development is a welcome move, as it shows that the National Assembly is taking a proactive approach to addressing the challenges facing the Solid Minerals sector. With the right funding and support, the sector has the potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to the country's revenue. The National Assembly's efforts to increase the allocation to the sector are a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that the Finance and Budget ministers will take the necessary steps to address the concerns of the committee.
The Solid Minerals sector is a critical component of the country's economy, and it is essential that it receives the necessary attention and funding to reach its full potential. The National Assembly's move to summon the Finance and Budget ministers is a significant step towards ensuring that the sector receives the support it needs to thrive.
In conclusion, the National Assembly's decision to summon the Finance and Budget ministers over the Solid Minerals sector allocation is a welcome move that demonstrates the committee's commitment to supporting the growth and development of the sector. It is hoped that the ministers will take the necessary steps to address the concerns of the committee and provide the necessary funding to support the sector's growth and development.