National Assembly, Judiciary Receive Record N564 Billion Statutory Allocations In 2024
The Federal Government’s statutory allocations to the National Assembly and the National Judicial Council (NJC) reached an unprecedented N564 billion between January and October 2024. This marks a significant increase in funding for both institutions, as revealed by an analysis of government spending records.
Background on Budgetary Allocations
In February 2024, the House of Representatives advanced a proposal to allocate 5% of Nigeria’s annual budget to both the federal legislature and judiciary. The move sought to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007 by mandating these allocations in the Appropriation Act.
Earlier, the National Assembly had already increased its 2024 allocation from N197.93 billion to N344.85 billion, the highest in its history. Similarly, the NJC’s statutory transfers saw a significant jump from N165 billion to N341.63 billion, reflecting a growing emphasis on funding key institutions.
Disbursement Details
Using data from GovSpend, a civic technology platform that tracks government expenditures, the allocations were disbursed as follows:
National Assembly Allocations
•Total Allocation (January–October): N308 billion
•Tranches (January–June): N172 billion
•Additional Transfers (July–October): N86 billion
•Capital Expenditures (July): N50 billion
The legislature received funds in multiple tranches, starting in February 2024, with consistent payments through October.
National Judicial Council Allocations
•Total Allocation (January–October): N256 billion
•Tranches (January–June): N170.8 billion
•Additional Transfers (July–October): N85.39 billion
The judiciary, like the legislature, benefited from consistent funding, reflecting its elevated budgetary status.
Significance of Statutory Transfers
Statutory transfers, mandated by law and constitutionally protected, enable institutions like the National Assembly and NJC to operate independently of external budgetary controls. This autonomy ensures the uninterrupted functioning of key government organs.
Implications for Governance
The record allocations underscore the government’s prioritization of legislative and judicial independence, though they have also raised questions about fiscal discipline amid economic challenges. Critics have argued that such significant allocations, particularly to the legislature, may not directly translate into improved governance or service delivery.
Moving forward, the impact of these allocations on the efficiency and accountability of both institutions will remain a key area of public and policy scrutiny.
