The House of Representatives has struck off the controversial N5 billion presidential yacht from the 2023 supplementary budget. This decision was disclosed by the Chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Bichi (APC, Kano), during a press conference held on Thursday, November 2, following the successful passage of the N2.17 trillion supplementary budget by the House.
According to Bichi, the Committee took the decision to eliminate the presidential yacht and reallocate the funds, amounting to N10 billion, to the student loan division. This move is poised to bolster the education sector and alleviate financial burdens for students across the country.
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In response to this development, the presidency’s media aide clarified that the President did not endorse the acquisition of the controversial yacht. Additionally, it was emphasized that the yacht was intended for the Navy’s use, rather than for the President’s personal or official use.
This decision has sparked a mixed reaction among the public, with some commending the reallocation of funds towards education, while others expressed disappointment regarding the initial proposal to allocate a substantial amount for a presidential yacht.
