Two million Naira part of running cost of the office of each Senator as provided for in the 2023 budget – NASS management

On Tuesday, the administration of the National Assembly responded to the contentious “enjoyment allowance” disbursed to Senators and House of Representatives members ahead of their extended recess starting last week Monday.

Issuing a statement to the press on Tuesday, Dr. Ali Umoru, the Secretary of Research and Information, clarified that the payment made to legislators in both the upper and lower chambers had been misconstrued. Dr. Umoru deemed such misinterpretation regrettable, as the funds were simply part of the lawmakers’ standard operational expenses for running their offices as mandated by their statutory allocations.

“The attention of the Management of the National Assembly has been drawn to the persistent mischaracterization and misunderstanding of the payment of N2,000,000.00 (two million naira) allowance to each Senator.

“It should be noted that the two million Naira is part of the running cost of the office of each Senator as provided for in the 2023 budget.

“The allocation for running costs is not a new development; it has been standard practice. These funds are utilized to facilitate various activities that directly contribute to effective representation, legislative activities and other initiatives aimed at serving the interests of the people.

“For the avoidance of doubt and for emphasis, the said allowances were budgeted for in the 2023 Appropriation Act as part of the running cost of the office of each Senator of the 10th Assembly.

“The allowances are, therefore, an entitlement and not a privilege or largesse distributed to the Senators. However, given the wrong impression the subject matter has created, it has become imperative to make this clarification and put the records straight.

“The National Assembly remains committed to transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. We appreciate the continued support and understanding of the Nigerian people as we work together to uphold the principles of democracy and good governance.”