The House of Representatives Committee on Information and National Orientation has rejected the N1.2 billion capital allocation for the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, calling it grossly insufficient.
During the 2025 budget defense session in Abuja, committee members expressed dissatisfaction with the N8.7 billion total allocation for the ministry, which is significantly lower than the N8.2 billion allocated for 2024 despite the national budget increasing from N28.7 trillion in 2024 to N49.7 trillion in 2025.
Rep. Fatoba Olusola, the committee chairman, stressed the need for a substantial allocation to the ministry, which is crucial for disseminating government information to the public.
His sentiments were echoed by other committee members, including Rep. Felix Nwaeke, who proposed rejecting the budget and lobbying for an increase.
Rep. Ismail Tijani pointed out that the meager allocation would not meet the ministry’s needs, especially considering its international representation through various foreign offices.
Rep. Akin Rotimi criticized the dispersion of funds for information-related functions across other government agencies, suggesting that all information and orientation funds should be consolidated under the ministry.
Rep. Amobi Ogah also criticized the envelope budgeting system, which he believes limits government agencies’ capacity to perform effectively, urging the National Assembly to reconsider this approach.
In response, the committee resolved to reject the capital component of the budget and vowed to collaborate with the leadership of the House, Senate, and the Minister of Finance to seek an increased allocation.
Earlier, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Muhammed Idris, emphasized the ministry’s role in ensuring timely, accurate, and honest dissemination of information to Nigerians.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives to engage citizens, including town halls and a revitalized information portal to improve public awareness and feedback on government activities.
Idris stressed the importance of rebuilding public trust in the government and instilling the right values in the younger generation to revive Nigeria’s lost glory.
He called for the replication of the legacies of Nigeria’s founding fathers to inspire the nation’s future.
