Buhari Writes Reps, Seeks Approval Of $800m Loan

–Forwards Federal Fire Service Bill

President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday wrote to the House of Representatives seeking the approval of USD800 million to be secured from the World Bank, for the National Social Safety Net Programme (NASSP).

The letter, dated May 2, 2023 was read at the plenary by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila.

It read, “It is with pleasure that I forward the above subject to you. Please note that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved an additional loan facility to the tune of USD800 million to be secured from the World Bank, for the National Social Safety Net Programme (NASSP) and the need to request for your consideration and approval to ensure early implementation (Copy of FEC Extract attached).

“The House may wish to note that the Programme is intended to expand coverage of shock responsive Safety Net support among the poor and vulnerable Nigerians. This will assist them in coping with the costs of meeting basic needs.

“You may wish to note that, the Federal Government of Nigeria under the conditional cash transfer window of the programme will transfer the sum of N5,000 per month to 10.2 million, poor and low-income households for a period of six month with a multiplier effect on about 60 million individuals. In order to guarantee the credibility of the process, digital transfers will be made directly to beneficiaries’ accounts and mobile wallets.

“The NASSP being a social intervention programme will stimulate activities in the informal sector, improve nutrition, health, education and human capital development of beneficiary households.
Given the above, I wish to invite the House to kindly approve an additional loan facility to the tune of USD800 million to be secured from the World Bank, for the National Social Safety Net Programme (NASSP).

“While hoping that this submission will receive expeditious consideration by the House. Please accept, Rt. Honourable Speaker, the assurances of my highest regards.”

Also, the president transmitted the Federal Fire and Rescue Service (Establishment) bill, 2022 to the House.

The letter read, “TRANSMISSION OF THE FEDERAL FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE (ESTABLISHMENT) BILL, 2022 Pursuant to Section 58(2) of 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), I forward herewith, the Federal Fire and Rescue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2022 for the consideration of the House of Representatives.

The Federal Fire and Rescue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2022 aims to establish and provide a legal and institutional framework for the Fire and Rescue Service.

“While hoping that the Bill will be considered for passage in the usual Expeditious manner, please accept, Right Honourable Speaker, the assurances of my highest regards”.