President Muhammadu Buhari has presented the proposed 2021 Budget of N13 trillion to the lawmakers.

Compared to budget presentations done in previous years, the President was only accompanied by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and a few ministers, while the others participated virtually.

According to Senate President Ahmed Lawan, the new arrangement became necessary in order to maintain social distancing during the presentation, as a result of the COVID-19.

Before presenting the proposed budget, the President gave a breakdown of the performance of the 2020 budget.

The lawmakers also passed the 2021-2023 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP).

President Buhari’s presentation of the 2021 budget to NASS

He notes that the challenging global and economic environment had major implications on the nation.

He, however, highlights that the government did not relent on its effort at poverty alleviation and job creation. One of which included the Public Works Programme.

The President adds that despite the challenges, the government has delivered on key polices, programmes and projects.

He says the 2021 budget is tagged the budget of economic recovery and resilience.

According to the president, “the main thrust of the 2021 budget is to complete as many ongoing projects as possible”, while giving priority to the ones that most affect the people.

He says the House will collaborate with all relevant ministries and agencies to ensure speedy implementation of the 2021 budget.

Buhari added that personnel costs remain the largest single item of expenditure, while speaking on how he hopes to eliminate ghost workers.