The Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Isa Ali, revealed on Friday that each member of the House receives approximately ₦400 million annually for constituency projects. This funding comes through Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs) and Special Intervention Projects (SIPs).
Representing the Billiri/Balanga Federal Constituency, Ali made this disclosure during a town hall meeting aimed at informing constituents about recent developments.
He detailed that ₦179 million is allocated for ZIPs and ₦40 million for SIPs, with an additional ₦200 million specifically budgeted for the Billiri/Balanga constituency.
Ali stated, “Part of the bills I’m sponsoring focus on federal constituencies and senatorial districts to ensure they receive major projects. In many constituencies, the only visible Federal Government projects are those initiated by National Assembly members.”
He emphasized transparency in the 10th House of Representatives, which is often called the ‘people’s house.’ He noted that the ZIP has remained consistent at ₦179 million for the past 20 years, while SIP funding has increased from ₦30 million in previous years to ₦40 million this year. Including the capital intervention for Balanga/Billiri, the total funding exceeds ₦400 million per constituency.
Ali praised the Federal Government for previously releasing 100% of the project funds, stating, “From 2019 to 2023, the Federal Government has released almost 100% of all ZIPs and SIPs.”
He assured his constituents of the continued quality of projects despite economic challenges, stating, “We are working hard to ensure this year’s interventions receive 100% release from the Federal Government.”
To ensure project quality, Ali mentioned that he has inaugurated a committee of professionals to oversee the implementation.
