The House of Representatives criticized President Tinubu's administration for delays in submitting the 2025 budget, urging compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Lawmakers stressed that late submissions hinder their ability to perform oversight and ensure fiscal responsibility. Committees were tasked with ensuring executive compliance within two weeks.
The Nigerian House of Representatives expressed frustration with President Bola Tinubu’s administration for delays in submitting the 2025 budget proposal to the National Assembly. Citing non-compliance with Section 11(1)(b) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007, lawmakers argued that the executive’s actions restrict the time required by the legislature to thoroughly review and execute its budgetary responsibilities as outlined in Section 88(2)(b) of the Constitution.
The House's concerns arose from a motion introduced by Representative Clement Jimbo, who highlighted the Fiscal Responsibility Act's purpose to foster prudent resource management and ensure macroeconomic stability. According to Jimbo, the act mandates the Federal Government to submit the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) no later than four months before the upcoming fiscal year. This requirement supports greater accountability and transparency in the nation’s fiscal operations.
The House also directed its committees on National Planning, Economic Development, Appropriation, and Finance to enforce compliance within two weeks. Lawmakers emphasized that the executive’s delay undermines the Assembly’s constitutional role in scrutinizing the budget and making informed decisions to promote Nigeria’s long-term economic objectives.
They called on the administration to promptly adhere to legal timelines, reinforcing the importance of legislative oversight and fiscal responsibility for the nation’s economic well-being.
