The Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to rework and resubmit their 2025 budget proposals following a critical budget defense session on Thursday.
The committee, led by Senator Kenneth Eze (APC, Ebonyi Central), raised concerns about the practicality, transparency, and anticipated impact of the projects proposed by both agencies. In particular, the NOA’s flagship National Identity Project came under scrutiny for its lack of visibility and grassroots engagement.
Senator Eze criticized the NOA for presenting programs that fail to connect meaningfully with the populace or reflect clear national benefits. “Programs must resonate with the people and contribute visibly to national development. The current proposal lacks these elements,” Eze asserted.
In response, NOA Director General Mallam Issa-Onilu defended the National Identity Project, describing it as essential for fostering unity and a shared value system among Nigerians. “The challenge with our value system is tied to our national identity. This project is vital for galvanizing Nigerians toward nation-building, development, and growth,” he explained.
Despite Issa-Onilu’s defense, the committee was unconvinced and insisted that the NOA refocus its programs to better align with national development priorities before seeking approval for funding.
Similarly, the News Agency of Nigeria faced criticism over discrepancies in its 2024 budget performance report. NAN Director General Ali Mohammed Ali was urged to reconcile the figures and ensure greater accountability in the agency’s financial management.
“We expect precision and accountability in the use of public funds. Disjointed figures undermine trust and make it difficult to plan effectively,” Senator Eze remarked.
The committee’s directive reflects its determination to uphold transparency and efficiency in the allocation of public funds for the 2025 fiscal year. Both agencies have been given time to revise their proposals and return for further evaluation.
This development underscoreed the Senate’s ongoing commitment to scrutinizing budgetary submissions to ensure they serve the nation’s best interests and deliver measurable outcomes for Nigerians.