Members of the House of Representatives in the 10th Assembly are set to receive a total of N54 billion for their respective constituency projects, with each member allocated N150 million. This allocation is part of the privileges accorded to lawmakers to directly contribute to the development of their constituencies.
A parliamentarian, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted the significance of these constituency allowances in enabling lawmakers to make a tangible impact on their constituencies. Constituency or zonal intervention projects, as they are known in Nigeria, encompass developmental initiatives implemented within the constituencies of members of the state Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senators. These projects are funded through various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, and often bear the name of the respective lawmaker.
The allocation of funds for constituency projects has been a topic of public discussion, with debates surrounding the transparency and impact of such initiatives. In the previous ninth assembly, members of the House of Representatives received N100 million each for constituency projects, while Senators were allocated N200 million.
Amidst economic challenges and the emphasis on collective endurance, especially during the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s “Renewed Hope,” the constituency allowance for lawmakers has now increased by N50 million.
The anonymous lawmaker shed light on the purpose of these funds, stating, “Our constituency allowance is N150 million. This is our opportunity to contribute positively to our constituencies through various projects. While we may not have direct control over all projects, this allowance serves as a form of assistance to our communities. Often, we utilize our personal funds to supplement the projects initiated for our constituencies. This year, each member of the House of Representatives is allocated N150 million for constituency projects.”
The specific allocation for the Senate remains undisclosed. However, the increased budget for constituency projects signifies lawmakers’ commitment to driving development and addressing the needs of their respective constituencies.