Senator Adamu Aleiro, a member of the National Assembly representing Kebbi Central Senatorial District, has emphasized the urgent need to slash the high cost of governance in Nigeria by 50 percent. Speaking after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Aleiro highlighted the detrimental impact of excessive government spending, which currently consumes about 70 percent of the national budget.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land Transportation, Aleiro praised the adoption of the Orosanye Report on Restructuring of the Public Sector, emphasizing its long-overdue implementation as crucial for curbing the bloated cost of governance. He stressed the importance of redirecting funds towards capital development, with a goal to allocate 50 percent of the budget to such projects.
Aleiro expressed support for the implementation of the Orosanye Report, describing it as a well-intentioned initiative that should have been enacted sooner. He emphasized the cooperative relationship between the National Assembly and the executive branch, affirming their commitment to legislative measures necessary for governance reform.
Addressing concerns about the cordiality between the executive and legislative arms of government, Aleiro rejected the notion that cooperation implies compromising party principles. He defended the role of the opposition, asserting that constructive criticism serves to hold the government accountable and contribute to responsible governance.
In terms of Nigeria’s future outlook, Aleiro expressed optimism, citing ongoing efforts to address security and economic challenges. He conveyed confidence in the government’s initiatives, indicating that sustained efforts could lead the nation out of current difficulties.
As a chieftain of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Aleiro underscored the importance of a responsible opposition in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance. He reiterated the opposition’s commitment to constructive engagement with the government to address shortcomings and advance the nation’s interests.