The representative from Kaduna State argued that adhering to the UNESCO recommendation on allocation to the education sector would do the country a lot of good
A lawmaker in the House of Representatives, Bello El-rufai (APC, Kaduna), has advised that the allocation for the education sector in the 2024 budget meet the 26 per cent benchmark recommended by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
He said on the plenary on Thursday, during the debate of the 2024 appropriation bill.
He urged for adoption of UNESCO recommendation, stating that 26 per cent of the national budget spent on education would do the education sector of the country a lot of good.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu had presented the proposed N27.5 trillion budget for 2024 to the National Assembly on Wednesday. Consequently, the House scheduled Thursday and Fridaay for lawmakers to air their views and advance the budget bill for second reading.
Contributing to the debate, El-rufai observed that growth in the educational sector is paramount to the development of the country.
“UNESCO insists that the FG allocate 26 percent of its budget to education. I hope that we are able to reach this threshold in the 2024 budget,” Bello said.
He also urged committees working on the appropriation bill to scrutinise the proposed budget, and ensure that there’s equity and fairness in resource alloation.
Also contributing to the debate on the budget, Bello Kumo (APC Gombe), urged the lawmakers to treat the budget with urgency.
“I want to urge colleagues to partner with the FG, taking cognisance of the issues in the country, to approve this budget and all the government commence work,” he said.
The House adjourned the debate till Friday after which the budget defence by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government is scheduled to commence.
