CEM REPORT, GOVERNANCE | The Nigerian Senate has taken a step towards strengthening legislative oversight by advancing a bill to establish the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (NABRO).
This proposed legislation, formally known as “A Bill for an Act to establish the National Assembly Budget and Research Office which provides the National Assembly with objective, timely and non-partisan analysis needed for economic and budget decisions and for related matters, 2024 (SB.363),” seeks to empower lawmakers with the necessary tools for informed economic and budgetary decisions.
Spearheading Transparency and Accountability
Sponsored by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau (APC, Kano North), the bill envisions the creation of NABRO as an independent entity. This autonomous body would be tasked with providing the National Assembly with detailed and impartial fiscal analysis and budgetary insights.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), who introduced the bill on behalf of Senator Barau, stated that NABRO’s primary objective is to “provide the National Assembly with objective, timely and nonpartisan analysis, information and estimates needed for economic and budget decisions.” This includes:
- Independent and unbiased analysis of government budget proposals.
- Continuous review and monitoring of existing and proposed government programs and budgets.
- Analysis of the economic impact of the federal budget on the private sector, as well as the budgetary and financial implications of proposed legislation.
Aligning with International Standards and Bolstering Legislative Authority
Senator Solomon Olamilekan (APC, Ogun West) expressed his support for the bill, highlighting how NABRO’s establishment would bring Nigeria’s budgetary practices in line with international standards. He emphasized the office’s crucial role in providing a comprehensive review of budgetary documents.
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa) proposed an amendment to the bill’s title, suggesting the inclusion of the term “Independent” to further underscore the autonomy and objectivity crucial to NABRO’s operations and analyses.
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Senator Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North) emphasized the broader implications of the bill, suggesting that its enactment by President Bola Tinubu would equip the National Assembly with the enhanced authority needed to fulfill its legislative duties more effectively. He believes this will enable lawmakers to ensure responsible and judicious use of resources through their role in approving the national budget.
Addressing Fiscal Concerns and Moving Forward
While the bill received overwhelming support, Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) raised concerns about the potential financial burden NABRO might place on the government’s expenses.
Despite these concerns, the bill successfully cleared a voice vote led by Senator Barau and was referred to the Committee on Appropriations for further deliberation. The committee is expected to conduct a comprehensive review within two weeks.
Looking Ahead: NABRO and the Oronsaye Report
The Senate’s initiative to establish NABRO introduces a second budgetary body alongside the existing Budget Office of the Federation. This move comes at a time when President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the full implementation of the Oronsaye report, a comprehensive public sector reform plan aimed at streamlining government operations and reducing costs.
The Oronsaye report, following a thorough examination of the public sector structure, recommended the consolidation, dissolution, or reconfiguration of various government bodies to curb administrative expenses. The potential interaction between NABRO and the existing Budget Office, and whether their functions will be streamlined or remain distinct, remains to be seen as the bill progresses through the legislative process.
This development marks a significant step towards potentially strengthening Nigeria’s legislative framework by equipping the National Assembly with enhanced tools for informed decision-making. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Committee on Appropriations conducts a thorough review and the nation awaits the bill’s ultimate fate.
