The management of the State House announced that the ongoing renovation of Dodan Barracks in Lagos, the former seat of power of the Federal Government, is scheduled for completion by December. The overhead expenditure, totaling N22.62 billion, is distributed across seven cost centers within the State House. These include State House Headquarters, State House Operations President, State House Operations Vice President, Office of the Chief of Staff, Office of the Chief Security Officer to the President, State House Medical Centre, and Lagos Liaison Office.
During an oversight visit by the House of Representatives’ Committee on Special Duties to the data center in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of State House, Olufunso Adebiyi, provided details on the progress. The State House aims to achieve full digitization by November 2024.
In terms of budget implementation, the State House has achieved 43% implementation on capital projects for 2024 and an impressive 99% implementation in overhead expenditure. Adebiyi highlighted that out of the total appropriated amount, a substantial sum has been released and utilized, demonstrating a commendable performance.
The State House Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Abiodun Oladunjoye, emphasized the importance of increased budget allocation for the State House in the 2024 appropriation. This allocation has significantly supported various capital projects and welfare initiatives within the State House.
Adebiyi also presented the performances of the 2023 budget and supplementary budget, showcasing effective utilization of funds for personnel costs, overhead expenditure, and capital projects. He reiterated the State House’s commitment to achieving full digitalization to enhance operational efficiency and security.
The visit by the House Committee Chairman on Special Duties aimed to evaluate the State House’s budget performance for 2023 and 2024. Adebiyi briefed the lawmakers on the progress of renovations at Dodan Barracks, noting that the renovations are expected to be completed by the end of the year. The legislators were invited for an on-the-spot assessment of the barracks to witness the ongoing projects funded by the 2023 supplementary budget and 2024 budget.
Hon. Kabir Tukura, the House Committee Chairman, expressed satisfaction with the State House’s efforts in digital transformation and praised their adherence to budgetary discipline. He commended the State House for the efficient utilization of funds and modernization of government services.