{"id":5046,"date":"2020-10-09T09:40:29","date_gmt":"2020-10-09T08:40:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thedailyleaks.com\/?p=5046"},"modified":"2020-10-09T09:40:29","modified_gmt":"2020-10-09T08:40:29","slug":"read-full-speech-buhari-presents-nigerias-n13-trillion-2021-budget-to-lawmakers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thedailyleaks.com\/read-full-speech-buhari-presents-nigerias-n13-trillion-2021-budget-to-lawmakers\/","title":{"rendered":"Read full speech: Buhari presents Nigeria’s N13 trillion 2021 budget to lawmakers"},"content":{"rendered":"
President Muhammadu Buhari has presented the 2021 budget estimate to a joint session of the lawmakers at the National Assembly.<\/p>\n
Buhari in his presentation, said, the proposed expenditure is put at N13.08 trillion with a crude oil benchmark price of $40 per barrel and daily oil production estimate of 1.86 million barrels (inclusive of condensates of 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day).<\/p>\n
Additionally, in it, there will be N1.35 trillion spending by Government Owned Enterprises and Grants and Aid funded expenditure of N354.85 billion.<\/p>\n
In the budget breakdown, there is recurrent expenditure of N5.65 trillion, personnel cost of N3.76 trillion and debt service of N3.12 trillion.<\/p>\n
A sum of N484.4 billion has been earmarked as the statutory transfers, while Pension, Gratuities and Retirees Benefits was put at N501.19 billion and overhead cost at N625.50 billion.<\/p>\n
The inflation rate was also projected at 11.95 per cent and GDP growth rate of 3.00 per cent was considered.<\/p>\n
For the National Assembly, the president annoucedba budget of N128 billion and N63.5 billion for the Niger Delta Development Commission.<\/p>\n
ALSO READ:\u00a0<\/strong>ASUU vs FG: Only workers captured by IPPIS will receive salaries, Buhari insists<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n The total federally distributable revenue is estimated at N8.433 trillion in 2021, based on the foregoing fiscal assumptions and parameters, while the total revenue available to fund the 2021 Federal Budget is estimated at N7.886 trillion, including Grants and Aid of N354.85 billion as well as the revenues of 60 Government-Owned Enterprises.<\/p>\n Buhari said the deficit will be financed mainly by new borrowings totalling N4.28 trillion, N205.15 billion from Privatisation Proceeds and N709.69 billion in drawdowns on multilateral and bilateral loans secured for specific projects and programmes.<\/p>\n The full budget speech of the president is presented below:<\/p>\n 2021 BUDGET SPEECH:<\/b><\/p>\n Budget of Economic Recovery and Resilience\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n Delivered By:<\/b><\/p>\n His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari<\/b><\/p>\n President, Federal Republic of Nigeria<\/b><\/p>\n At the Joint Session of the National Assembly, Abuja<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0Thursday, 8th<\/sup>\u00a0October 2020<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n PROTOCOLS<\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 It is with pleasure that I present the 2021 Federal Budget Proposals to this Joint Session of the National Assembly.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 Distinguished and Honourable Leaders, and Members of the National Assembly, at this juncture, I wish to commend your tremendous efforts in approving the revision of the 2020 \u2013 2022 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper, and passage of the 2020 Appropriation (Repeal and Amendment) Act, in response to the Coronavirus Pandemic.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 Today marks an important occasion in our quest to accord the federal budget process the seriousness it deserves. In line with our commitment, we have worked extra hard to ensure early submission of the 2021 \u20132023 Medium-term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper, as well as the 2021 Appropriation Bill. It is my sincere hope that the National Assembly will pass this Bill into law early enough to enable implementation by 1st<\/sup>\u00a0January 2021, given the collaborative manner in which the budget was prepared.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 In the course of this address, I will present the highlights of our budget proposals for the next fiscal year. The Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning will, later, provide the full details of these proposals.<\/p>\n Recent Developments<\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 The 2021 Budget was prepared amidst a challenging global and domestic environment due to the persistent headwinds from the Coronavirus Pandemic. The resulting global economic recession, low oil prices and heightened global economic uncertainty have had important implications for our economy.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 The Nigerian economy is currently facing serious challenges, with the macroeconomic environment being significantly disrupted by the Coronavirus Pandemic. Real Gross Domestic Product (\u2018GDP\u2019) growth declined by 6.1 percent in the second quarter of 2020. This ended the 3-year trend of positive, but modest, real GDP growth recorded since the second quarter of 2017. I am glad to note that, through our collective efforts, our economy performed relatively better than that of many other developed and emerging economies.<\/p>\n 3.\u00a0 GDP growth is projected to be negative in the third quarter of this year. As such, our economy may lapse into the second recession in four years, with significant adverse consequences. However, we are working assiduously to ensure a rapid recovery in 2021. We remain committed to implementing programmes to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over the next 10 years.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0 As skills\u2019 deficits limit employment opportunities in the formal economy, various skills\u2019 development programmes are being implemented simultaneously to address this problem frontally. For instance, the Government is implementing the Special Public Works programme to provide employment opportunities to 774,000 youths across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria. We have also recently introduced the N75 billion Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, of which N25 billion have been provided in 2021 Budget.<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0 We thank all Nigerians, for your perseverance and continued support during these difficult times. We remain unwavering in our commitment to actualize our vision of a bright future for everyone.<\/p>\n Performance of the 2020 Budget<\/b><\/p>\n 6.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished and Honourable Members of the National Assembly, you will recall that the\u00a02020 \u2018Budget of Sustaining Growth and Job Creation\u2019\u00a0<\/b>was amended in response to recent fiscal pressures. I am glad to report that these efforts enabled us to effectively respond to the public health challenge of Coronavirus outbreak and moderate economic impact.<\/p>\n 7.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Pursuant to our revised assumptions, the amended 2020 Budget was based on a benchmark oil price of 28 US Dollars per barrel; oil production of 1.80 million barrels per day; and exchange rate of N360 to the US Dollar.<\/p>\n 8.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Based on these budget parameters, aggregate revenue of N5.84 trillion was projected to fund\u00a0 N10.81 trillion in expenditure. The projected deficit of N4.98 trillion, or 3.57 percent of GDP, is expected to be financed mainly by borrowing.<\/p>\n 9.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In 2020, average daily oil production was 1.88 mbpd up to June, as against the revised estimate of 1.80 mbpd for the entire year. However, the market price of Bonny Light crude averaged 40.79 US Dollars per barrel, significantly higher than the revised benchmark price of 28 US Dollars.<\/p>\n 10.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As at July 2020, the Federal Government\u2019s actual revenue available for the budget was N2.10 trillion. This revenue performance was only 68 percent of our pro-rated target in the revised 2020 budget. At N992.45 billion, oil revenue performed well above our budget target, by 168 percent. Non-oil tax revenues totalled N692.83 billion, which was 73 percent of the revised target.<\/p>\n 11.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To improve independent revenue performance, I have directed that the cost profiles of Government Owned Enterprises (\u2018GOEs\u2019) should be scrutinized and limits imposed on their cost-to-revenue ratios.\u00a0 Supervising Ministers have also been directed to ensure closer monitoring of the revenue generating activities and expenditures of the Government Owned Enterprises.<\/p>\n 12.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 On the expenditure side, as at end of July 2020, a total of N5.37 trillion had been spent as against the pro-rated expenditure of N5.82 trillion. Accordingly, the deficit was N3.27 trillion. This represents 66 percent of the revised budgeted deficit for the full year.<\/p>\n 13.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Despite these challenges, we met our debt service obligations. We are also up to date on the payment of statutory transfers and staff salaries, while overhead costs have been significantly covered.<\/p>\n 14.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 For the first time in recent years, we commenced the implementation of this year\u2019s capital budget in the first quarter. As at 15th<\/sup>\u00a0September 2020 a total of about N1.2 trillion had been released for capital projects. Every Federal MDA has received at least 50 percent of its 2020 capital expenditure budget, in line with my earlier directives.<\/p>\n 15.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Let me emphasise that revenue generation remains our major challenge. Nevertheless, Government is determined to tackle the persisting problems with domestic resource mobilization, as there is a limit to deficit financing through borrowing. The time has come for us to maintain a healthy balance between meeting our growing expenditure commitments and our long-term public financial health.<\/p>\n Key Achievements in the 2020 Fiscal Year<\/b><\/p>\n 34.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Over the last year, this Administration has implemented several priority projects. I am happy to report that much progress has been made on several fronts and our Government has delivered on key policies, programmes and projects in these priority areas.<\/p>\n 16.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In agriculture, we have recorded appreciable success in rice and other crops mainly through the Anchor Borrowers Programme and the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative, anchored by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, respectively. We are also accelerating the construction of 337 rural roads around key agricultural corridors to enhance access to market and reduce post-harvest losses. These efforts have reduced the adverse impact of Coronavirus on our food availability, prices and security.<\/p>\n 17.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We have made progress on the railway projects connecting different parts of the country. The Lagos-Ibadan Line will soon be operational. The Abuja-Kaduna Line is running efficiently. The Itakpe-Ajaokuta Line was finally completed after over 30 years since it was initiated and commissioned in September 2020.<\/p>\n 18.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Arrangements are underway to complete the Ibadan-Kano Line. Also, work will soon commence on the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri Line and Calabar-Lagos Coastal Line, which will connect the Southern and Eastern States to the North, and the South-South as well as South-East to the North, and South-West, respectively.<\/p>\n 19.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Second Niger Bridge is at about 46 percent completion. We hope to commission the project before the end of our tenure in 2023. We have awarded several contracts to rehabilitate, reconstruct and construct major arterial roads, in order to reduce the hardship to commuters and increase economic activity.<\/p>\n 20.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To bridge the infrastructure deficit, we are also implementing innovative financing strategies to pull-in private sector investment. The Infrastructure Company, which I recently approved, will become a world-class infrastructure development vehicle, wholly focused on making critical infrastructural investments in Nigeria. This Infrastructure Company will raise funding from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, the Africa Finance Corporation, pension funds as well as local and foreign private sector development financiers.<\/p>\n 21.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, we are undertaking the construction and rehabilitation of over 780km of roads and bridges, nationwide, to be financed by the grant of tax credits to investing business. Ongoing projects under this scheme include:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Construction and Rehabilitation of Lokoja-Obajana-Kabba-Ilorin Road Section II (Obajana-Kabba) in Kogi and Kwara States;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Construction of Apapa-Oworonshoki-Ojota Expressway in Lagos State; and<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Construction of Bodo-Bonny road with a Bridge across the Opobo Channel in Rivers State.<\/p>\n 22.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To enhance good governance, we strengthened our anti-corruption agencies to ensure they work independently and jointly, while respecting the rule of law. We have also worked to address emergent cases of insecurity and insurgency, nationwide, with innovative approaches. Our security operations in the Niger Delta, North Central and North West are yielding desired results. We are determined to get rid of bandits, kidnappers and criminal behaviour from our midst.<\/p>\n Theme & Priorities of the 2021 Budget<\/b><\/p>\n 23.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished Senators; Honourable Members; let me now turn to the 2021 Appropriation Bill, which is designed to further deliver on the goals of our Economic Sustainability Plan. This Plan provides a clear road map for our post- Coronavirus economic recovery as a transitional plan to take us from the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (2017 \u2013 2020) to the successor Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021 \u2013 2025).<\/p>\n 24.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In view of the many challenges confronting us, we must accelerate our economic recovery process, promote social inclusion and strengthen the resilience of the economy. The 2021 Appropriation has, therefore, been themed the \u2018Budget of Economic Recovery and Resilience\u2019<\/b>. It is expected to accelerate the pace of our economic recovery, promote economic diversification, enhance competitiveness and ensure social inclusion.<\/p>\n Parameters & Fiscal Assumptions Underpinning the 2021 Appropriation<\/b><\/p>\n 25.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished Members of the National Assembly, the 2021 \u2013 2023 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper set out the parameters for the 2021 Budget, which include:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Benchmark oil price of 40 US Dollars per barrel;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Daily oil production estimate of 1.86 million barrels (inclusive of Condensates of 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day);<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Exchange rate of N379 per US Dollar; and<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 GDP growth projected at 3.0 percent and inflation closing at 11.95 percent.<\/p>\n Finance Bill 2020<\/b><\/p>\n 26.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished and Honourable Members; I have directed the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning to finalise the Finance Bill 2020, which will be forwarded for your kind consideration and passage into law, shortly after today\u2019s 2021 Budget presentation. The Finance Bill is to support the realization of our 2021 revenue projections, adopt appropriate counter-cyclical fiscal policies and enhance the efficiency of fiscal incentives.<\/p>\n Tax Expenditure Statement<\/b><\/p>\n 27.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007, we will prepare and publish, a Tax Expenditures Statement for 2019. The 2019 Statement will be the first of these annual Statements, setting out the estimated cost of tax exemptions, incentives and rebates provided under Nigeria\u2019s revenue and other laws. The 2019 Statement is expected to contribute to public discussion on the use of our tax policies and system to achieve socio-economic development.<\/p>\n Federal Government Revenue Estimates<\/b><\/p>\n 28.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Based on the foregoing fiscal assumptions and parameters, total federally distributable revenue is estimated at N8.433 trillion in 2021. Total revenue available to fund the 2021 Federal Budget is estimated at N7.886 trillion. This includes Grants and Aid of N354.85 billion as well as the revenues of 60 Government-Owned Enterprises.<\/p>\n 29.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Oil revenue is projected at N2.01 trillion. Non-oil revenue is estimated at N1.49 trillion. As you will observe, the format of the 2021 Appropriation Bill has been modified to include budgeted revenues, no matter how small, for each MDA, to focus on internal revenue generation. Accordingly, I implore you to pay as much attention to the revenue side as you do to the expenditure side.<\/p>\n Planned 2021 Expenditure<\/b><\/p>\n 30.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 An aggregate expenditure of N13.08 trillion is proposed for the Federal Government in 2021. This includes N1.35 trillion spending by Government-Owned Enterprises and Grants and Aid funded expenditures of N354.85 billion. For 2021, the proposed N13.08 trillion expenditure comprises:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Non-debt Recurrent Costs of N5.65 trillion;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Personnel Costs of N3.76 trillion;<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Pensions, Gratuities and Retirees\u2019 Benefits of N501.19 billion;<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Overheads of N625.50 billion;<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Debt Service of N3.124 trillion;<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Statutory Transfers of N484.49 billion; and<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sinking Fund of N220 billion (to retire certain maturing bonds).<\/p>\n Fiscal Balance<\/b><\/p>\n 1.\u00a0 The 2021 Budget deficit (inclusive of Government Owned Enterprises and project-tied loans), is projected at N5.20 trillion. This represents 3.64 percent of estimated GDP, slightly above the 3 percent threshold set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007. It is, however, to be noted that we still face the existential challenge of Coronavirus Pandemic and its aftermath; I believe that this provides a justification to exceed the threshold as provided for by this law.<\/p>\n 31.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The deficit will be financed mainly by new borrowings totalling N4.28 trillion, N205.15 billion from Privatization Proceeds and N709.69 billion in drawdowns on multilateral and bilateral loans secured for specific projects and programmes.<\/p>\n Statutory Transfers<\/b><\/p>\n 32.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The sum of N484.49 billion provided for Statutory Transfers in the 2021 Budget represents an increase of N56.46 billion (or 13 percent) over the revised 2020 provision. The Statutory Transfer provisions are:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Niger Delta Development Commission\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N63.51 billion;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 North East Development Commission\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N29.70 billion;<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 National Judicial Council\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N110.00 billion;<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Universal Basic Education Commission \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N70.05 billion;<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Independent National Electoral Commission\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N40.00 billion;<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 National Assembly\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N128.00 billion;<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Public Complaints Commission\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N5.20 billion;<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Human Rights Commission\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N3.00 billion; and<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Basic Health Care Provision Fund\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N35.03 billion.<\/p>\n 33.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, all beneficiaries of Statutory Transfers will be required to provide the Budget Office of the Federation with periodic reports on the allocation and expenditure of funds for inclusion in the quarterly Budget Implementation Report.<\/p>\n Recurrent Expenditure<\/b><\/p>\n 34.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In our efforts to enhance national security and human capital development, a major part of the 2021 recurrent cost estimate is allocated to paying salaries and overheads in MDAs providing these critical public services. These include:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N227.02 billion for the Ministry of Interior;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N441.39 billion for the Ministry of Police Affairs;<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N545.10 billion for Ministry of Education;<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N840.56 billion for Ministry of Defence; and<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N380.21 billion for Ministry of Health.<\/p>\n Personnel Costs<\/b><\/p>\n 35.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Personnel cost is still our largest single item of expenditure. In the 7 months to 31st<\/sup>\u00a0July 2020, it accounted for 34 percent of total Federal Government spending and is projected at 33 percent of 2021 expenditure.<\/p>\n 36.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To check the incidence of payments to non-existent personnel and unauthorised allowances, only Federal staff that have been captured on the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (\u2018IPPIS\u2019) platform will receive salaries.<\/p>\n 37.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 All agencies have been directed to ensure that they obtain all necessary approvals before embarking on any fresh recruitment. Any breach of these directives will be severely sanctioned.<\/p>\n Debt Service<\/b><\/p>\n 38.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We remain committed to meeting our debt service obligations. Hence, we have provisioned N3.12 trillion for this in 2021, representing an increase of N445.57 billion from N2.68 trillion in 2020. A total of N2.183 trillion has been set aside to service domestic debts while N940.89 billion has been provided for foreign debt service. N220 billion\u00a0<\/b>is provided for transfers to the Sinking Fund to pay off maturing bonds issued to local contractors and creditors.<\/p>\n Overhead Costs<\/b><\/p>\n 39.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Total overhead costs of MDAs and Government Owned Enterprises are projected to rise to N625.50 billion in 2021, mainly due to the inclusion of the overheads of an additional 50 Government Owned Enterprises. Overhead provisions have also been made for newly created agencies. To keep a tab on running costs, MDAs must adhere to extant expenditure controls.<\/p>\n Capital Expenditure<\/b><\/p>\n 40.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 An aggregate sum of N3.85 trillion is expected to be available for capital projects in 2021, as summarised below:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N1.80 trillion for MDAs\u2019 capital expenditure;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N745 billion for Capital Supplementation;<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N355 billion for Grants and Aid-funded projects;<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N20 billion for the Family Homes Fund;<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N25 billion for the Nigeria Youth Investment fund;<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N336 billion for 60 Government Owned Enterprises;<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N247 billion for capital component of Statutory Transfers; and<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N710 billion for projects funded by Multi-lateral and Bi-lateral loans.<\/p>\n 41.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The 2021 capital budget is N1.15 trillion higher than the 2020 provision of N2.69 trillion. At 29 percent of aggregate expenditure, the provision moves closer to this Administration\u2019s policy target of 30 percent.<\/p>\n 42.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Capital expenditure in 2021 remains focused on the completion of as many ongoing projects as possible, rather than the commencement of new ones. We have also made efforts to ensure equity in the distribution of projects and programmes in the proposed budget. I will be providing the National Assembly a list of some of the most critical projects which we must work collectively to ensure they receive adequate funding. Until projects reach completion, they do not deliver the dividends of democracy that Nigerians rightly deserve.<\/p>\n Highlights of the 2021 Capital Projects<\/b><\/p>\n 43.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Key capital spending allocations in the 2021 Budget include:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Power: N198 billion (inclusive of N150 billion for the Power Sector Recovery Plan);<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Works and Housing: N404 billion;<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Transportation: N256 billion;<\/p>\n d.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Defence: N121 billion;<\/p>\n e.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Agriculture and Rural Development: N110 billion;<\/p>\n f.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Water Resources: N153 billion;<\/p>\n g.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Industry, Trade and Investment: N51 billion;<\/p>\n h.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Education: N127 billion;<\/p>\n i.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Universal Basic Education Commission: N70 billion;<\/p>\n j.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Health: N132 billion;<\/p>\n k.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Zonal Intervention Projects: N100 billion; and<\/p>\n l.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Niger Delta Development Commission: N64 billion.<\/p>\n 44.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will facilitate the integrated development of its sector by promoting crops\u2019 value chains; as well as providing rural roads, water and sanitation, veterinary and pest controls, grazing, food and strategic reserves, and access to inputs and extension services.<\/p>\n 45.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The 157 percent increase in the capital allocation to the health sector is to enhance the capacity to deliver healthcare services through the procurement of equipment, vaccines and other facilities. Two centres of excellence, as well as one Accident and Emergency Centre, will be equipped in Federal Teaching Hospitals in each geopolitical zone.<\/p>\n 46.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In addition, numerous Primary Health Care Centres will be equipped and upgraded across the six geopolitical zones. Furthermore, funds have been allocated for the expansion of Midwives Service Scheme in the six geopolitical zones. To enhance occupational safety, funds have been provided for the provision of Personal Protective Equipment for health workers.<\/p>\n 47.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Ministry of Education\u2019s capital allocation has been increased by 65 percent to improve the education of our children. Funds have been provided for the provision of scholarship awards to Nigerian students at home and abroad.<\/p>\n 48.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We have provided funds for the upgrade of security and other infrastructural facilities in our Unity Colleges nationwide. To improve access to education, we have made provision for the establishment of five new Federal Science and Technical Colleges. We have also provided for the payment of allowances to 5,000 teachers under the Federal Teachers Scheme.<\/p>\n 49.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In line with our commitment to invest in Transportation Infrastructure, capital allocation to the Works and Housing sector is to facilitate the completion of several critical projects in 2021. I have directed the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning to provide a detailed breakdown of key infrastructural projects in her subsequent Press Briefing.<\/p>\n 50.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Key projects for implementation in the Power sector include several Rural Electrification Projects in the 36 States and Abuja, Rural Electrification Access Programme in Federal Universities, the Kaduna LPFO Gas Fired power Plant, the Mambilla Hydro Power Project and the Zungeru Hydropower Project.<\/p>\n 51.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Provisions have been made for legacy debts owed to local contractors compensation and resettlement of project-affected communities, the Renewable Energy Micro Utility (Solar) project, and the construction of transmission lines and substations nationwide. These project\u2019s implementation is expected to have positive impact on electricity supply nationwide, as well as boost productivity and employment.<\/p>\n 52.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Projects to be implemented by the Ministry of Water Resources in 2021 include provision of potable water in the North East, construction of irrigation and dams across the country, and the provision of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene facilities.<\/p>\n 53.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Ministry of Transportation has earmarked funds for projects such as the Lagos-Ibadan-Kano Line, Abuja-Kaduna Line, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Line and Itakpe-Ajaokuta-Warri Line. These projects, when completed, will minimize the cost of transporting people and goods around the country.<\/p>\n 54.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To maintain the peace in the Niger Delta region for economic and social activities to thrive, the provision of N65 billion for the Presidential Amnesty Programme has been retained in the 2021 Budget. In addition, the sum of N63.51 billion has been appropriated for the Niger Delta Development Commission and N24.27 billion has been provided for the capital projects of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. These allocations should further support the development of the region by facilitating the completion of important ongoing projects, such as the East-West Road.<\/p>\n Government Fiscal Strategy in 2021<\/b><\/p>\n 55.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The government is already implementing several measures to overcome our fiscal constraints. In addition to the Strategic Revenue Growth Initiatives, we are leveraging technology and automation, as well as more effective monitoring of Independently Generated Revenues. Our efforts are aimed at addressing revenue leakages and redirecting scarce resources to the poor and vulnerable. These efforts include:<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Deregulation of the price of petroleum products;<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ongoing verification exercise with IPPIS; and<\/p>\n c.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Implementation of service-based electricity tariffs.<\/p>\n 56.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The new petrol pricing regime has freed up resources that was allocated to subsidise petroleum products. Similarly, the ongoing IPPIS verification exercise has closed gaps that encourage ghost workers or pensioners. The service reflective electricity tariffs will help resolve liquidity crisis in the power sector and make the sector attractive to foreign investment. These reforms have released trillions of Naira for allocation to other priority areas.<\/p>\n 57.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished Senators, Honourable Members, permit me to reiterate that the main thrust of our capital spending programme in 2021 is the completion of as many ongoing projects as possible across the country. Accordingly, we have prioritized projects that can be rapidly completed to benefit our people.<\/p>\n 58.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members, I note, with satisfaction, your determination to promptly consider and pass the Petroleum Industry Bill into law. The enactment of this Bill will boost confidence and attract further investments into our oil and gas sector, as well as increase\u00a0 revenues.<\/p>\n 59.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I fully understand the difficulties many of our people are going through with the implementation of our reform agenda. However, the measures we are implementing are necessary for sustainable public finance, better allocation of our scarce resources and improved public service delivery. As we implement these reforms, social safety nets will be implemented to cushion the effect of the most vulnerable of our citizens as well as business owners.<\/p>\n 60.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In furtherance of our inclusiveness agenda, the sum of N420 billion has been provided to sustain the Social Investment Programme. N20 billion has also been set aside for the Family Homes Fund, our Social Housing Programme. We have expanded our National Social Register, to include an additional one million Nigerians following the onset of Coronavirus. We recently introduced the N75 billion Survival Fund Programme to support and protect businesses from potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, the Central Bank of Nigeria is reducing the interest rate on its intervention facilities from 9% to 5% with a 1-year moratorium till 31st<\/sup>\u00a0March 2021, to provide concessional lending of:<\/p>\n \u00a0.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N100 billion to households and small businesses;<\/p>\n a.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N100 billion to the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry; and<\/p>\n b.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 N1 trillion to large agricultural and manufacturing businesses.<\/p>\n 61.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We urge Nigerian businesses and individuals to make the most of these concessional credit facilities and other such opportunities.<\/p>\n Conclusion<\/b><\/p>\n 62.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished and Honourable Members of the 9th<\/sup>\u00a0National Assembly;\u00a0let me use this opportunity to, again, commend your firm commitment towards ensuring a very harmonious and productive relationship with the Executive. It is important to further deepen this relationship in the interest of our people.<\/p>\n 63.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As you review the 2021 Budget estimates, we believe the legislative process will be expedited to ensure its prompt passage to sustain the restoration of a predictable January \u2013 December fiscal year. In this regard, I have directed all Ministers and Heads of Agencies to be personally available for budget defence.<\/p>\n 64.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Let me re-emphasize that Nigerians expect that the 2021 Budget will contain only implementable and critical projects, which when completed, will significantly address current structural challenges of the economy, improve the business environment and accelerate economic recovery.<\/p>\n 65.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 May I conclude my remarks by commending the National Assembly for its support in steering our economy during these very challenging times. We remain committed to sustaining this partnership. We believe that as we work together, we will jointly deliver on our joint mandate to our people.<\/p>\n 66.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It is with great pleasure, therefore, that I lay, before this Distinguished Joint Session of the National Assembly, the 2021 Budget Proposals of the Federal Government of Nigeria, for your consideration.<\/p>\n 67.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I thank you for your attention.<\/p>\n 68.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" President Muhammadu Buhari has presented the 2021 budget estimate to a joint session of the lawmakers at the National Assembly. Buhari in his presentation, said, the proposed expenditure is put at N13.08 trillion with a […]<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5048,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4,3,2],"tags":[660,118,609,41],"coauthors":[25],"class_list":{"0":"post-5046","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-business","8":"category-latest-news","9":"category-top-news","10":"tag-budget","11":"tag-buhari","12":"tag-national-assembly","13":"tag-nigeria"},"yoast_head":"\n