2025 Appropriation Bill: Tinubu Returns To NASS, Raises Budget To N54.2trn
President Bola Tinubu formally requested the National Assembly to increase Nigeria’s 2025 budget from N49.7 trillion to N54.2 trillion, citing the availability of additional revenue worth N4.53 trillion. The funds are sourced from GOEs, FIRS, and the NCS, with allocations set to address critical national priorities. Read more
Athena Commentary: While the proposed budget increase demonstrates an effort to harness additional revenue sources for development, the move raises questions about fiscal discipline and implementation efficiency. There is a pressing need for clarity on the specific national priorities these funds will address, as vague designations often lead to mismanagement. The National Assembly must exercise its oversight function rigorously, ensuring that the budget is both realistic and impactful. Without transparency and accountability, this increase risks becoming another case of bloated public spending with limited value to the citizenry.
Children Die In Zamfara School Fire
A fire incident at a Qur’anic school in Zamfara State claimed the lives of 17 Almajiri pupils and injured 16 others. The tragedy was attributed to burning corn stalks and delayed response due to a malfunctioning fire truck. Despite the valiant efforts of police and local volunteers, the loss of lives was devastating. Read more
Athena Commentary: This heartbreaking tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved fire safety infrastructure and disaster response in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities. The government’s repeated failure to provide functioning firefighting equipment is inexcusable. Additionally, the conditions under which Almajiri pupils live remain a cause for concern. Policymakers must prioritise their welfare by addressing the systemic neglect of Islamic educational institutions, providing better shelters, and integrating modern safety measures. This tragic incident must be a wake-up call for comprehensive reform.
NASS Pledges Increased Budget For Cancer Research, Treatment
Hon. Amos Magaji, chairman of the House Committee on Health, pledged the National Assembly’s commitment to increasing budget allocations for cancer research, treatment, and palliative care at the National Cancer Symposium 2025. The Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to improving cancer care through increased funding and expanded access. Read more
Athena Commentary: The commitment to increased funding for cancer research and treatment is commendable and long overdue. This is partly a result of the highly elaborate advocacy carried out by the Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program (NCOP) headed by Chief Osita Chidoka (Chancellor of the Athena Centre) to the National Assembly members earlier last month. However, success will depend on the actual release and judicious use of these funds. Cancer care in Nigeria has long suffered from inadequate infrastructure, poor training, and late-stage diagnosis due to poverty and ignorance. Beyond budgetary allocation, there is an urgent need for grassroots education campaigns, subsidised treatment options, and the establishment of well-equipped cancer centres across the country. Accountability in fund utilisation will be critical in translating these pledges into tangible health benefits for Nigerian families.
Genital Mutilation Still High In South East – UNICEF
UNICEF has raised concerns over the high prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the South East, with Imo State recording the highest rate at 38% among women aged 15-49. Despite a decline, the practice persists, and UNICEF called for stronger alliances and community-driven movements to eradicate it. Read more
Athena Commentary: The persistence of FGM in the South East is a stark reminder of the entrenched harmful cultural practices that undermine women’s health and rights. While progress has been made, much more needs to be done. Community engagement, grassroots advocacy, and education are vital in dismantling the cultural norms that sustain this practice. Law enforcement must also be strengthened to ensure that those who perpetrate FGM face justice. Collaborative efforts involving civil society, traditional leaders, and government agencies are essential to achieving zero tolerance for this harmful practice.
Compiled by Aliyu Jalal