The presidency has disclosed that it would spend the sum of N4.9
billion for the maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment in
Aso Rock this year.
A statement released by the Senior Special Adviser to the Minister of
Budget and National planning, Akpandem James, said the sum will be
spent only when approved by the National Assembly.
James explained that the huge amount was due to the nature of Aso
Villa complex, adding that the amount would go a long way in ensuring
that the activities of President Muhammadu Buhari were not disrupted due
to power failure or any technical hitches.
The statement reads, “For the N4.9 billion for annual maintenance of
mechanical/electrical equipment in the Villa, it must be noted that the
Villa is quite an expansive complex comprising several offices,
residences and other relevant support facilities.
“This provision is made to ensure that the equipment is maintained in
top form, at all times, and for several of these there are standard
maintenance contracts.”
According to the proposed budget for the year, the amount which is
higher than N4 billion voted for Agribusiness and market development,
N1.2 billion for Polio eradication initiative and N3.5 billion for
Counterpart funding including global fund, health, and GAVI is also
higher than the N3.5 billion to be spent on the Zobe Water Supply
project-Phase 1and2.