SERAP Urges NASS, Presidency to Slash Bloated Budgets, Prioritize Deficit Reduction
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas to reduce the proposed N9.4 billion budget for the presidency’s travels, meals, and catering materials, as well as the N344.85 billion allocated for the National Assembly in the 2025 fiscal year. SERAP insists that the savings from these reductions should be channeled towards addressing Nigeria’s budget deficit and other pressing economic challenges.
In an open letter dated December 21, 2024, SERAP urged the National Assembly leaders to appeal to President Bola Tinubu to revise and submit a supplementary appropriation bill reflecting these adjustments. The organization described the proposed spending as excessive, particularly in light of the country’s current economic challenges. “This level of expenditure is unjustifiable given the prevailing economic realities and the rising levels of poverty in Nigeria,” SERAP stated in the letter.
Highlighting specific concerns, SERAP pointed out a significant increase in the presidency’s allocation for “rehabilitation and repairs of fixed assets,” which has surged from N14 billion in 2024 to N26 billion in 2025. “This N12 billion increment exemplifies wasteful spending at a time when every kobo should be directed towards critical areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” the letter further noted.
The organization also demanded a detailed breakdown of the National Assembly’s proposed N344.85 billion budget, including personnel costs and allowances for lawmakers. “Nigerians deserve to know how their money is being spent. Transparency and accountability are not optional – they are non-negotiable duties of public office holders,” SERAP said, adding that failing to disclose these details would erode public trust in governance.
SERAP warned that it would pursue legal action if the National Assembly and the presidency fail to cut unnecessary expenditures. “We are prepared to take all necessary legal steps to compel compliance and safeguard public funds,” it declared. The group emphasized that unchecked spending and systemic corruption within government ministries and agencies are major contributors to Nigeria’s fiscal challenges.
As of the time of this report, neither Senate President Akpabio, Speaker Abbas, nor the presidency has issued an official response to SERAP’s demands. Nigerians are keenly watching to see whether the government will heed this call to prioritize fiscal responsibility in the face of mounting economic pressure. GMTNewsng
