Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, has provided important insights into the planning and allocation of the 2025 budget for agencies under the State House. His comments come as part of a broader effort to ensure that government resources are allocated effectively and transparently.
During a recent one-day fact-finding tour of various government agencies under the State House’s supervision, Gbajabiamila outlined the principles guiding the upcoming budget. He emphasized that the budget will be developed based on a comprehensive needs assessment. This approach aims to allocate funds based on actual needs and requirements rather than historical or arbitrary figures.
Gbajabiamila stressed that it is crucial to use resources wisely, given their inherent limitations. He noted that the efficient use of funds is essential for achieving the goals of the administration and ensuring that each agency can fulfill its mandate effectively. This perspective highlights a commitment to addressing inefficiencies and ensuring that each agency receives appropriate support based on its performance and relevance.
In his remarks, Gbajabiamila also pointed out the need for transparency throughout the procurement process. He underscored that clear and honest procedures are vital to prevent misuse of resources and ensure that funds are used to achieve their intended purposes. This focus on transparency aligns with broader efforts to improve accountability in government operations.
Addressing the current state of funding for various agencies, Gbajabiamila acknowledged that many are not adequately funded. He suggested that there might be a need to evaluate whether some agencies should be merged or even eliminated to streamline operations and enhance effectiveness. However, he clarified that this discussion does not necessarily apply to State House agencies at this time.
Looking ahead to 2025, Gbajabiamila assured that the budget will not be developed in isolation. Instead, it will be based on a detailed needs assessment, which will provide a more accurate picture of what each agency requires. This approach aims to ensure that the allocation of funds is justified and that each agency’s budget aligns with its needs and the overall vision of the administration.
In addition to discussing budgetary concerns, Gbajabiamila took the opportunity to engage directly with the heads and staff of the agencies. He expressed his commitment to improving their welfare and working conditions, recognizing that a motivated and well-supported workforce is crucial for achieving organizational goals.
He encouraged staff members to embrace innovation, strive for excellence, and maintain professionalism in their roles. Furthermore, he urged them to support their Chief Executives in their efforts to lead their agencies effectively.
Overall, Gbajabiamila’s remarks reflect a focused and strategic approach to budget planning, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and impact of government agencies under the State House.