By Daniel Edu
In the upcoming 10th Assembly, each member of the House of Representatives is set to receive a total allocation of N54 billion for the purpose of funding constituency projects. This allocation translates to N150 million for each individual member.
A legislator, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared insights on these constituency allowances, highlighting their significance as one of the few privileges lawmakers possess to directly influence the development of their respective constituencies.
In Nigeria, constituency or zonal intervention projects encompass developmental initiatives situated within the districts of state House of Assembly members, House of Representatives members, or Senators. These projects are financed through various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
It’s a common practice for such projects to bear banners acknowledging the involvement of the respective lawmaker in their implementation.
The compensation packages and allowances provided to lawmakers have often been a contentious topic due to the lack of transparency surrounding them.
In the previous ninth assembly, it was disclosed that each member of the House of Representatives received N100 million, while Senators received N200 million for their respective constituency projects.
However, in light of prevailing challenges and with a call for the public to endure tough times in anticipation of better prospects, the allocation for lawmakers’ constituency projects has been raised by an additional N50 million.
Explaining the significance of these funds, the anonymous legislator stated, “In the House of Reps, our constituency allowance is N150 million. This is the sole opportunity we have to initiate one or more projects in our constituencies. While we often lack direct control over the actual projects, these funds serve as a form of relief to give back to our constituencies. Many of us often dip into our personal funds to finance the projects we undertake for our constituencies.”
The legislator further mentioned, “For this year, the House of Reps members are receiving N150 million each. As for the Senate, I am uncertain about their allocation.”
