Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has raised serious concerns regarding the disparities evident in the 2024 budget allocation, specifically pointing out the significant difference in funding between the National Assembly Hospital and six major teaching hospitals across the nation.
In a statement expressing his deep concern, Obi highlighted the disproportionate allocation of resources, stating, “Allocating our scarce resources to high-priority areas of need is essential for the well-being of the nation.” He emphasized the need for a review and appropriate reallocation of funds to address critical areas of need.
One of the key issues highlighted by Obi is the allocation of N15 billion solely for the National Assembly hospital, which he finds unacceptable given its magnitude compared to the budgetary allocations for major teaching hospitals. He pointed out that this allocation exceeds five times the combined budgetary allocation for teaching hospitals such as University College Hospital, Ibadan; University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu; Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria; Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife; Jos University Teaching Hospital, and University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital.
Furthermore, Obi expressed disappointment over the budgetary allocation of N15.3 billion for the National Assembly library project and procurement of books, including the e-Library, in contrast to the insufficient funding for the long-delayed National Library project. He highlighted the disparity, stating, “This level of insensitivity to the present situation and challenges faced by the people should not be tolerated by any development-minded nation.”
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Obi also criticized the allocation of N10 billion for the Senate’s and House of Representatives car parks and the National Assembly Recreation Centre, emphasizing the need to prioritize sectors such as science, technology, and innovation for the nation’s future development.
In conclusion, Obi called for a reassessment of national priorities, urging a revision of the budget to eliminate frivolous expenditures and ensure proper allocation of resources for the benefit of the people. He emphasized, “No great nation is built on a foundation of waste and frivolity.”
