Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson for Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, announced that the cabinet members have been tasked by the governor to get ready for a thorough budget defence at the state House of Assembly.
Adeleke also advised his aides to ensure timely submission of drafted executive bills to the legislature.
In a statement made in Osogbo, the state capital, the governor emphasized the importance of full cooperation with the legislature to expedite the budget processing in line with the assembly’s schedule.
The statement conveyed the governor’s message, ”We have a state to govern. We have a five-point agenda to deliver. There is no room for distractions. All cabinet members must get their work together by ensuring successful budget hearings at the assembly.
”Also, let the relevant House committees have all the required information to vet and approve your proposals.
“I have full confidence that the legislature will understand the fiscal and economic considerations behind the 2024 budgetary proposals.”
Adeleke also mentioned that his administration is aware of innovative ideas being introduced that may require new laws or amendments to existing ones.
”Let me direct our MDAs with planned executive bills to speed up the internal processes.
“Three of such bills are very dear to the goodness of our state. The bill to domesticate the Nigerian Startup Act should be forwarded to the assembly without further delay. That bill holds the key to boosting and diversifying our state economy,” he stated.
He also highlighted the importance of the Osun electricity market bill and emphasized the need for expeditious passage of the bill into law.
”Also, of similar importance is the bill to harmonise the state tax system. Our government wants to put an end to multiple taxation and expand the tax base with a lower tax rate,” he added.
Adeleke directed the Justice Ministry and all affected Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to work closely to ensure timely submission of bills to the State Assembly for early passage.
NAN