My residence will not receive any funds for renovation – Gbajabiamila

Femi Gbajabiamila, the president’s chief of staff, has refuted reports that funds for remodelling his official residence were included in the 2024 budget that is currently being considered and approved by the National Assembly.

He stated that he lives in his own home in a post on his verified X account, @femigbaja, on Wednesday. He added that a separate appropriation had been naughtily referenced as a requirement to remodel his home.

He claims that the funds being credited to him are intended for the renovation of the Vice President’s Lodge in Lagos and the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks, with the goal of modernising the Presidency’s communications and information management systems.

He cautioned that although the current administration encourages criticism of the government’s policies, it is crucial to do so in a responsible and fact-based manner.

“I have seen social media commentary regarding the 2024 Appropriations Bill, particularly the provisions under the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President,” said the former speaker of the House of Representatives.

“It has become necessary to clarify that the 2024 Appropriations Bill does not include a provision for the renovation of any residence for the President’s Chief of Staff. This is due to the inaccurate nature of these reports.” I have a private home where I reside.

“The amounts that internet bloggers and fake news vendors have deceitfully cited are for updating the Vice President’s Lodge in Lagos and the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks, updating the Presidency’s information management and communications infrastructure to conform to contemporary standards, and procuring cars for the Presidency’s personnel.

“The budget plan makes clear the amounts sought for these projects, and it doesn’t resemble the misleading online feedback at all.

This administration is open to public examination of government spending, which is why the budget plan is made available to the public.

“On the other hand, responsible speech and a fact-based approach are necessary for a constructive public discourse regarding government actions, as opposed to derogatory remarks and fabrications.”