The National Assembly has reiterated its dedication to promoting fiscal discipline and transparency following a budget defence session between the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Communications and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
This was made known in a statement by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, who participated in the session alongside other members of the National Assembly.
According to Senator Nwoko, the budget defence exercise represents a vital component of the legislature’s constitutional oversight role, allowing lawmakers to scrutinize the Commission’s financial projections, request necessary clarifications, and ensure responsible management of public resources.
“The budget defence process is a crucial aspect of legislative oversight. It enables us to thoroughly review proposals, demand clarification where required, and ensure that public institutions remain accountable in their stewardship of national resources,” he stated.
During the session, the Joint Committee examined the NCC’s proposed expenditures, regulatory agenda, and planned capital projects.
Particular attention was given to initiatives aimed at expanding broadband access, improving spectrum management, strengthening revenue generation, and aligning the Commission’s programmes with Nigeria’s broader digital economy objectives.
Senator Nwoko noted that the telecommunications sector remains a key driver of national growth, stressing that sound regulation and prudent financial planning are critical to sustaining industry expansion, protecting consumers, and advancing telecommunications infrastructure across the country.
He further explained that such oversight engagements are not merely routine legislative procedures but strategic mechanisms designed to enhance institutional effectiveness and ensure that budgetary allocations deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.
The review process is expected to continue as the National Assembly concludes deliberations on the Commission’s budget proposals ahead of their incorporation into the wider national appropriation framework.
