By Romanus Uzor
Speaking on a live TVC Breakfast programme on Tuesday, Senator Nwebonyi emphasized that constituency projects are not only real and sustainable but remain critical to bridging the development gap at the grassroots level.
"Constituency projects are desirable because they bring development closer to the people," the senator said. "But it is a misconception to assume lawmakers implement these projects. The execution lies with the executive arm."
Nwebonyi explained that the process begins with motions and zonal intervention requests raised by legislators during plenaries. These are transmitted through the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance to the Budget Office, which assigns the projects to relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The MDAs, in turn, handle the nomination, design, and award of contracts.
Responding to allegations that some constituency projects are inserted into MDA budgets without prior knowledge or consultation, the senator dismissed such claims as speculative. He challenged any agency with contrary evidence to present it publicly.
“Lawmakers and constituents have the responsibility of oversight. Often, legislators are not even aware of the contractors handling the projects linked to their constituencies,” he added.
Senator Nwebonyi reiterated that the core objective of constituency projects is equitable national development, ensuring no region is left behind in the distribution of democratic dividends.
He called for a shift in public perception and urged citizens to engage more constructively with government initiatives. “Both the executive and legislature are committed to improving the lives of Nigerians. What we need is mutual understanding and value reorientation,” he concluded.
Romanus Uzor Ozioko is the
Special Assistant to the Senate Deputy Chief Whip on Media and Publicity.
